Two nature preserves open in Sonoma Co.

Two nature preserves along state Highway 1 on the Sonoma County Coast are slated to open to guests for the first time at 8 a.m. Friday, according to county officials.

The Gateway to the Jenner Headlands Preserve, which is 5,630 acres, and the Pole Mountain Preserve, which is 238 acres, are just two miles north of the town of Jenner, and will offer access to coastal fields, forests and vistas.

Guests will also have the option of taking the 14-mile round trip hike to the summit of Pole Mountain, although those who choose to do so are advised to leave early in order to get back safely before closing time.

A 30-space parking lot is provided free of charge at the Gateway to the Jenner Headlands, courtesy of The Wildlands Conservancy, and the parks are open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset.

Pole Mountain Preserve is accessible through the Gateway to the Jenner Headlands Preserve.

The Sonoma Land Trust in 2005 began raising $36 million to acquire the property and closed the deal in 2009 with assistance from public and private funding.