Jack Hume Grove – Vacaville, California
The Little Hidden Redwood Haven ♥
Have you ever been on a summer mid-morning hike and found the heat nearly unbearable? I was at mile 6 on this particular morning, coming from up and around a steep hill hike at Pena Adobe park, when coming down from a path I spotted a grove of beautiful (cool and refreshing) redwoods. I was in awe that this little magical forest just appeared and provided such a cooling shade. I sat on a bench and listened to the birds, wishing I had packed a picnic! This place felt like a hidden sanctuary that gave refuge to my overheated self.
I have been back a few times since and it still puts a smile in this adventurer’s heart. Maybe because it reminds me of my youth in the Santa Cruz Mountains, running around with my cousins through their redwood forest and creeks, during my summer visits. And maybe because it’s a beautiful piece of enjoyment all on its own. either way, it is worth the visit.
Park Information & directions
Jack Hume Grove is located within the Lagoon Valley / Pena Adobe Park. the hours of operation are 7 am until sunset. Your furry four legged friend is allowed but must be leashed.
The best route I found to get to this section of the park is to Google Map Guns Fishing & Other Stuff, 197 Butcher Rd, Vacaville, CA 95687. Once you approach that store continue past on Butcher Road until it dead-ends to the entrance of the park road. You will see apartments, and other buildings to the left of Butcher, and vehicles parked all along the road. It is FREE PARKING in this area so the earlier you arrive the better chance of getting a spot.
Finding the secret grove
I guess the grove isn’t really a secret but It sure felt like it the first time I came upon these woods. Now if you don’t want to do a 6+ mile hike up a steep hill and down to get to it. You can continue walking in from Butchers Road onto the paved path that borders the Highway. Yes, you will hear the noise of the highway as you walk most of this path, but it is still a good little walk and ideal if you need wheelchair or stroller accessibility. As this path begins to wind left and around you will soon approach the grove. It is approximately under 1 mile, and an easy walk. Trail goes from feeling like a slightly noisy city street walk to a peaceful serene escape.
Besides the lovely tall redwoods that drape the grove, there are beautiful bright tulips scattered, herbs like rosemary aligning wooden fence posts, little crossover bridges, picnic benches, and stairs leading up to some wonderful trail that overlooks the most beautiful cherry blossom tree, park/city views, and Lagoon Valley Lake ♥
From here you can make your hiking as easy or intense as wanted. There are walks along another little pond, trails up through the hills, or on a paved road. Whatever you choose is a great option, and as always, that’s what I love most about hiking – you can make it what you want it to be! An entire trail, or some adventuring around as you see fit, and this place is perfect for just that. Another example of a Perfectly Practical Trail!
View of Eagle Lake Trail – Lagoon Valley Lake ♥
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