The Sacramento Valley Conservancy will host a hike highlighting the geology of Deer Creek Hills from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. And here's the list of all of this season's hikes and other activities.

The hike, led by conservancy docent Robert H. Sydnor, an engineering geologist and hydrogeologist, will examine rock formations and the landscape, with special offerings for children.  The hiking trails are dirt roads and cattle paths through gentle rolling hills.  The hike is suitable for beginners.

Springtime hikes at Deer Creek Hills find green hills.  (2004 file photo)

There's detailed information about the hike's geology available on the conservancy's web site.  Tour size is limited.  Reserve a place in the hike by calling 731-8798 or e-mailing ginasilvernale@hotmail.com

The conservancy is a private, non-profit land trust that owns other land as well as the Deer Creek Hills property, north of Rancho Murieta.

Here's the schedule for the rest of the year's conservancy events at Deer Creek Hills:

• Equestrian Ride
  Sunday, March 1, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
  
  
• Wildflower Hike
  Saturday, March 28, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
  
  
• Equestrian Ride
  Sunday, March 29, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
  
  
• Birds and Wildflowers of DCH
  Saturday, April 25, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

• Equestrian Ride
  Sunday, April 26, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

• History/archeological interests of DCH
  Saturday, May 23, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

• Equestrian Ride
  Sunday, May 24, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
  
  
• Sunset Hike-Bat Night- Astronomy Night
  Saturday, June 13, 7 p.m.-10 p.m.

• Mountain Biking
  June/August TBD

• Astronomy Night
  Saturday, August 15, 7 p.m. - 10 p.m. 

Instructions from the conservancy:

Hikers/cyclists/riders should meet at Latrobe and Stone House Roads (north of Highway 16 or Jackson Road and west of Rancho Murieta).  Both roads can be accessed off of Jackson Road.  Carpooling is strongly encouraged since parking is limited, and all vehicles should park on the dirt portion of Latrobe Road. 

Weather is unpredictable, so please bring layers of clothing for all weather types.  Water, light snacks and a hat for warmth and shade are also suggested. 

There is active cattle grazing at Deer Creek Hills, and the conditions of hiking routes vary and may include stream or fence crossings and uneven terrain.  Heavy rain and/or wind cancel hike/ride.