The first inhabitants of Lynch Canyon were Native Americans known as the Patwins, part of the larger linguistic family, the Wintuns. The Suisunes, a sub-tribe of the Patwins, likely hunted deer, elk and bear on the property, and gathered acorns in late summer. General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo held the first official title on the property, but when the United States took possession of California his deed was disputed and the land was sold for $1.25 per acre.

During the next century, landowners grazed cattle and sheep on the land. Tri-County Development Inc. bought the property in the early 1980s to build a landfill,but Solano County voters rejected the project. Solano Land Trust purchased the property in two parcels, completing the transfer in 1996.

Lynch Canyon serves as an important buffer zone between the cities of Fairfield and Vallejo. It is located just north of Interstate 80 between American Canyon Road and Highway 12 (Jameson Canyon Road).

The purchase of Lynch Canyon was made possible by a variety of funding sources including the Tri-City and County Cooperative Planning Group, the City of Fairfield, the California State Legislature, California Department of Parks and Recreation, the California Transportation Commission, California Department of Fish and Game and other sources. Since its acquisition, nine miles of trails have been built or improved with funding by the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council and the Coastal Conservancy. Other public access improvements include picnic tables, hitching posts for horses, parking lot, information kiosk, trail signs and a toilet.

With over 10 miles of multi-use trails, Lynch Canyon invites visitors to:

Hike: Choose from moderate to challenging routes, like the Lynch Loop Trail with panoramic views of the Bay Area.
Run or Bike: Enjoy rugged trails perfect for outdoor fitness.
Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for raptors, deer, and even bobcats.

Lynch Canyon’s rich ecosystems support a variety of species, including:

Golden Eagles and Red-Tailed Hawks: Frequent sightings in the skies above.
Wildflowers: Spring blooms carpet the hills with vibrant colors.
Creekside Habitats: Providing shelter for amphibians and aquatic species.

From guided nature hikes to an annual kite-flying festival, Lynch Canyon hosts a range of events that celebrate its unique landscape. Educational programs introduce visitors to the property’s ecology and conservation efforts.

Enjoy a peaceful lunch in designated picnic spots while soaking in the surrounding beauty.

Mountain Bike Riding at Lynch Canyon:

You can ride your mountain bike on your own at Lynch Canyon during open hours. Enjoy!
Class 1 Electric Bike (e-bikes) are allowed in Solano County Parks wherever conventional bikes are allowed unless otherwise posted. E-Bikeriders must adhere to the same trail rules as conventional bicycle riders. Class 1 e-bikes are pedal-assist only, with no throttle, and have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph.

Horseback Riding at Lynch Canyon:
1. You can ride your horse on your own at Lynch Canyon during open hours. Enjoy!
2. You can request a guided ride for you and your horse from a Solano Land Trust equestrian docent by contacting Mindi (splish@sbcglobal.net) or Christine (cnken13@juno.com).
3. The Sacramento Valley Equestrian Patrol patrols at Lynch Canyon on horseback, in partnership with Solano Land Trust and Solano County Parks. They greet visitors, answer questions and promote safe use of this beautiful park. If you are interested in joining the Sacramento Valley Equestrian Patrol, you can visit their website at www.sacvalleyequestrianpatrol.org, or contact Kim D'Amelio (916-730-5776, kdamelio@sbcglobal.net) or Vicki Dawson (707-689-7466, vdawson92@gmail.com).