Hike Mount Burdell

Start at the wide gravel parking lot. You will find the start of the Burdell Trail on the south side leading directly up the mountain. 

The Burdell Trail winds around the southern slopes before beginning to switch back and forth up the east side of the mountain. The forest full of toyon, bay and madrone trees breaks occasionally to offer views of the Petaluma River. 

The trail is packed dirt and gravel. There are a few trails that join the Burdell Trail as you go. The way to continue on the Burdell Trail is by following the clearly marked trail that constantly leads uphill. Because it is largely shaded this trail doesn't get too warm to hike during the summer. As you gain elevation the chances of passing another person becomes increasingly rare. At the top there are a few nice places to sit and take in the view before skipping your way back down the mountain the same way you came up.

Here is a park map with all the available trails outlined.