Outdoor/Nature

Discover California Redwood Forests in Sonoma County

Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, Guerneville, California

Lose yourself in the magic of Sonoma County redwood forests via trails, zipline thrills, cycling adventures, and more.

Explore the majestic beauty of California’s redwood forests in beautiful Sonoma County. Coast redwoods are the tallest living things in the world, with some reaching more than 370 feet! Get up close and personal with these impressive and inspiring giants — a visit to Sonoma County’s redwoods will refresh your body, mind, and soul.

Explore Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve

Three kids pose in front of a redwood tree with their hands outstretched at Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, Guerneville — Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, Guerneville, California

In the small town of Guerneville, visit this protected reserve where you can immerse yourself in 805 acres of tranquil, behemoth redwoods. Marvel at massive trunks that stretch into needled greenery, gently swaying overhead.

Trails range from flat, mulch-lined paths to steep uphill inclines. The Discovery Trail offers a wheelchair-accessible pathway, panels in Braille, and tree-hugging platforms. There are also parts of the park you can drive through for a small fee. Learn about soulful travel in Armstrong Woods.

Discover Trione-Annadel State Park

This 5,092-acre park in Santa Rosa has redwood trees, seasonal streams, lush meadows, volcanic rocks, and northern oaks. Hikers, bikers, horseback riders, and visitors appreciate the miles of trails where, in addition to redwoods, you’ll see California red-legged frogs, rare white fritillary flowers, and the Mayacamas Mountains. In spring and summer, the trail that runs near Lake Ilsanjo is awash in brilliant wildflowers. Wheelchair-accessible horse-mounting platforms are at the Warren Richardson trailhead.

More California redwoods and forest hikes in Sonoma County:

A woman rappels down to the forest floor at Sonoma Canopy Tours, Occidental — Sonoma Zipline Adventures, Occidental, California

Zip Through the Tree Tops

Get close to the crowns of these sky-sweeping evergreens when you zipline through the forest with Sonoma Zipline Adventures in the town of Occidental. On secure cables, fly from one aerial platform to the next, soaking up the views. You’ll even zip through an old-growth redwood forest whose trees are more than 700 years old. Experience this guided tour featuring thrilling zip lines, sky bridges, spiral staircase, rappel, and some of Sonoma County’s most beautiful scenery.

From dense redwoods to the Pacific Ocean cycling in Sonoma County delights the senses — From dense redwoods to the Pacific Ocean, cycling in Sonoma County delights the senses.

Pedal Past Idyllic Landscapes

Getaway Adventures has bike rentals and tours for taking in Sonoma County’s stunning sights. The King Ridge route is a steep and challenging trek featured in pro cyclist Levi Leipheimer’s Gran Fondo.

For a more peaceful pedal, try the Bohemian Highway, a scenic, 10-mile roadway that winds through soaring redwoods, grassy pastures, rocky ravines, and three charming towns: Freestone, Occidental, and Monte Rio. Along the way, stretch your legs at organic farms and wineries, specialty nurseries, and charming local shops and restaurants.

Check out more Sonoma Wine Country bike rides.

Cottages surrounded by redwoods can be found at Fern Grove Cottages, Guerneville — Fern Grove Cottages, Guerneville, California

Slumber Soundly Among the Trees

Relax at peaceful inns and lodges in the scenic forests of Sonoma County.

The Grove at Dawn Ranch in the town of Guerneville offers cute craftsman-style cabins, cottages, and bungalows. Cozy up by the fireplace, sip coffee on the private deck, and hop on complimentary cruiser bikes to explore Armstrong Redwoods. Two ancient redwood trees grow on this 15-acre riverfront site.

Highland Dell Lodge was built in 1906 and helped garner the town of Monte Rio’s reputation as a vacation destination. With stunning views of redwoods and the Russian River, this charming historical property has the perfect blend of modern amenities and good, old-fashioned, laid-back vibes.

Explore more Sonoma County hotels and lodgings.

Roses bloom in the garden at Korbel Champagne Cellars, Guerneville — Korbel Champagne Cellars, Guerneville, California

Sip Wine in the Shade

Don’t miss the famous Sonoma County wines on your visit! Gorgeous redwood trees shade the outdoor deck at Korbel Champagne Cellars, the oldest continually operating champagne house in North America. Tour the winery and cellars, enjoy a complimentary tasting, or create your own pairing with a bottle and gourmet eats from the irresistible onsite deli.

Other Sonoma County wineries with amazing redwood views:

Moshin Vineyards, Healdsburg
Porter Creek Vineyards, Healdsburg
Gary Farrell Vineyards & Winery, Healdsburg

Find the complete listing of Sonoma County wineries.

Enjoy the Views at Northwood Golf Club

With a backdrop of evergreen giants, this par-36, nine-hole course in the town of Monte Rio was built in 1928 with famed architect Alister MacKenzie. This golf destination is known for its beauty and fun challenges. Unwind at the on-site restaurant, where you’ll find a redwood dining room, a spacious outdoor patio, and a bar.

Find more Sonoma Wine Country golf courses.

Leave the Redwoods as Lovely as You Found Them

Redwood forests are ancient and delicate, so be sure to treat them with care by sticking to trails, packing out trash, and taking nothing but pictures. Read more about Leave No Trace principles and sustainable travel in Sonoma County.

Get the Free Digital Inspiration Guide to Sonoma County.