Interpretive hikes through the Sutter Buttes set for this weekend

Two Middle Mountain interpretive hikes are planned for this weekend and organizers said the weather should be cloudy with no rain.

The two separate hikes are at Dean Place and West Shaeffer Ranch – two of the properties where owners give permission for Middle Mountain to take people.

The mission statement of the Middle Mountain Interpretive Hikes is to advance the understanding of the natural and cultural features of the Sutter Buttes through interactive educational activities for school children and the public.

The organization uses a numbered boot system to indicate the level of difficulty. One is the easiest and six is the most difficult.

People should go prepared with plenty of food, water and be properly dressed to hike.

Preregistration is required. Meet and greet information is emailed once people sign up. Email mmsutterbutteshikes@yahoo.com to sign up or for questions.

Photographer’s outing – Dean Place: The event is designed for photographers of all levels. Attendees will caravan/carpool to a ranch in the middle of the Sutter Buttes. There will be several guides so people can scout and choose different locations for photos. Participants should take food and water; meeting time is by 6 a.m. Rain will cancel; occasional showers won’t. Choice of one to three boots (level of difficulty). Saturday; 10 spaces available; the cost is $35.

Ridge Hike – West Shaeffer Ranch: The Shaeffer Family hosts hikers on the north side of the Buttes. Hikers will explore the ranch that has been in the same family since the 1860s. The hike will include possible views of North Butte, Peace Valley and the old Titan Missile site. Lassen and Shasta mountains can often been seen in the distance. Bring food and water. Three boots (level of difficulty). Saturday; 16 spaces available; The cost is $35.