Where to See Fall Colors in Sonoma County

Gorgeous fall colors spread like tapestry across Sonoma County from early September through late November, when Mother Nature weaves her spectacular autumnal artwork across this region.

This is the time of year that much of Sonoma County’s locally-grown harvest is at the peak of ripeness, including grapes, pumpkins, apples, plums, persimmons, blackberries, and squash. Green vineyards turn gold to red, deciduous oaks morph yellow to fiery orange, and meadows of yarrow, barberry, and plumbago reach their most vibrant hues.

Are you ready to drink in the autumnal eye candy this season brings? Perhaps even toast the beauty with a glass of wine in hand? We’ve compiled this list of where to see fall foliage in Sonoma County.

Benziger Family Winery 

Set next to Jack London State Historic Park in the quaint village of Glen Ellen, Benzinger Winery is one of Sonoma Valley’s most stunning destinations for viewing indigenous plants in all their autumn glory. Known for biodynamic farming, the winery is nestled between valleys and hillsides, which brings unique and splendid views of vineyards and hillside foliage. Another special feature is that this winery offers a 45-minute tram tour that takes you around the property to take in all those breathtaking views — and a wine tasting is included.

Spring Lake Regional Park

This 350-acre county park in Santa Rosa offers extraordinary views of fall colors with the shimmering red-yellow foliage of Big Leaf maples lining the creeks next to amber-leaf oaks, spreading like a velvet drape along the hillsides.

This is where you can get up close and personal with the fall beauty — crunch your walking feet or bike through fallen leaves along the trails. Boat on the lake to admire the tree-lined shore reflected in the water, dancing and glittering in golden green. Kayak, paddleboat, and canoe rentals Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Don’t forget your furry friend – leashed pups are always welcome, and the lake hosts Water Bark dog swim parties on weekends in September.

North Sonoma Mountain Regional Park & Open Space Preserve

For sweeping views of the county, this 820-acre park and preserve is a perfect place to take in trees and vineyards ablaze in color as far as the eye can see. Take the 3.7-mile section of the Sonoma Mountain Bay Area Ridge Trail to walk through the gorgeous foliage in pleasant fall weather. Begin in the ferns and redwoods on Matanzas Creek, then wind through dense groves of oaks and bay laurels sprinkled with all the autumnal hues.

Find more things to do in Sonoma County, and check our Guide to Hiking in Sonoma County.

Written by Sonoma Insider Carey Sweet