This magnificent 535-acre property features diverse oak woodlands, mixed evergreen forest, riparian, and chaparral ecosystems, and is known for its amazing spring wildflower displays. Bouverie Preserve is home to a rich and distinct combination of plants and animals, including more than 130 species of birds, 350 species of flowering plants, and numerous large mammals such as the bobcat, grey fox, and coyote.

Opportunities to Visit

Guided Nature Walks
Guided Nature Walks offer public access to the Bouverie Preserve and are offered monthly in the spring and fall. The walks are docent-led and give insight to the programs offered to over 3,000 elementary school children each year. Click here for more information. Donation appreciated.

Bouverie Backyard Naturalist Series
Geared toward the adult amateur naturalist, these Saturday seminars include time in the classroom and on the trail. Taught by ACR scientist or expert. One to three mile hike on mildly- to moderately-strenuous terrain. Bring a bagged lunch and water for the trail. Class size is limited. $25 per seminar, discount offered to ACR membersat Sponsor-level or above.
Registration required.  
For more information, dates and how to register, see class listings on the online calendar.

Annual Open House 
Explorers of all ages welcome! Take a short hike on the trails of this 535-acre preserve with a trained volunteer. Wander the display hall and learn about mammal skulls, bird specimens and other native flora and fauna. Join us for this opportunity to explore ACR's Bouverie Preserve and learn about programs and volunteer opportunities. Please check the calendar for this event, which is usually held in the fall.

Frequently asked questions about visiting the preserve.

Location

Bouverie Preserve of Audubon Canyon Ranch located at 13935 Sonoma Highway 12, which is approximately six miles north of the historic town of Sonoma in the Valley of the Moon near the village of Glen Ellen. Access is by appointment only.

Map link

Directions

FROM THE NORTH: Drive southeast from Santa Rosa on highway 12 for about 12 miles. Pass the turnoff to Glen Ellen (Arnold Drive) and proceed for 1/3 mile. The green entrance gate and Bouverie Preserve sign are on the left. Once through the gate, continue up the driveway to the parking lot.

FROM THE SOUTH: Drive approx. 6 miles north of Sonoma on Highway 12. Passing Madrone Road, continue for 1 1/2 miles past Sonoma Valley regional Park to mile marker 31.00. Just beyond, turn right at the "Bouverie Preserve" sign and continue through the gate and up the driveway for about 1/2 mile to the parking area.