Lake Leonard, again!
Some of you long time Footloose Forays fans may remember when I used to offer weekend events at Lake Leonard. My son, Hunter and I are combining our talents and strengths and are at it again.
In the wilds of Mendocino County, near Ukiah and ten miles down a dirt road are 4000+ acres of a private retreat. Owned by the Dakin family for 70 years, Leonard Lake is a hidden gem known to few but loved by everyone lucky enough to visit. The lake itself is 18 acres and 70' deep and the largest natural lake in Mendocino County. We can canoe, kayak, swim, play ping pong, fish, relax, and explore the grounds around the lake. We’ll take daily hikes, exploring the old growth redwood and Douglas-fir forests that surround the lake. Longer hikes will take us up to the chaparral and expansive grasslands. But you can always choose to curl up with a book or set off on your own.
I haven’t taken groups here in almost 20 years, but it was a favorite destination when I used to come up here on Labor Day and Memorial Day weekend. My son Hunter (soon to be a famous chef) has known the Dakins since 1992 and that’s how we were first introduced to the property. We’ve reserved the two oldest houses, known as the “Main House” and "the Beehive." When I first started doing trips here in the mid 90’s the main house was still lit by kerosene lanterns, but nowadays they have a robust solar grid, great wifi, and a very reliable central radiator powered by an external wood fire.
Best of all, Hunter Ellis (@huntersupperclub) will be cooking for us! Hunter has a residency at Casino Bar in Bodega and makes produce-driven seasonal food that is delicate yet comforting. We will have a coursed dinner with wine pairings, a more casual family style dinner, lunches, breakfasts, coffee. The weekend will culminate with an Easter Brunch of shakshuka and freshly baked pita bread. The juxtaposition of comfort, luxury, and complete isolation is magical. I can guarantee you will not want to leave when it comes time. Sign up soon, since space is capped at an intimate 16 people. We encourage carpooling and a vehicle with good clearance. Subaru’s are great, Priuses and Teslas are not.
Need more information? Contact me (mjellis@footlooseforays.com) or Hunter (hunterfryellis@gmail.com)
You may also visit the Lake Leonard website. https://leonardlakereserve.com
Cost: $1150 per person.
Date: Friday, 2 pm, March 29 to Sunday, 1 pm March 31, 2023
Accommodations: So cozy, shared bathrooms. You don’t need to bring anything just your lovely selves, a set of clothes and a daypack. More details sent upon registration.
