Sonoma Outdoor Activities
From quick green getaways to moderately strenuous hikes, Sonoma County is one of California’s most diverse natural destinations. More than 60 regional and state parks beckon travelers to hike through redwood forests, paddle along the coast or rivers, or just sit down and enjoy the sounds of nature. Read our guides to outdoor activities, cycling, hiking, camping, and backpacking in Sonoma County. Did you know that you can go ziplining with Sonoma Canopy Tours?
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Hiking: San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge
One of the most rewarding and unusual Sonoma County hikes I’ve taken lately has been on the Lower Tubbs Island/Tolay Creek... Read More -
Hiking in Bodega Bay
Nestled into a particularly beautiful stretch of Sonoma’s 55-mile coast, Bodega Bay is a favorite destination for Bay Area... Read More -
Sonoma County Parks to Walk Your Dog
Like many dog lovers, you probably love to travel with your dog. If you find yourself in Sonoma County for the day or a long... Read More -
10 Gorgeous Fall Color Walks in Wine Country
Autumn is such a vibrant time in Sonoma Wine Country, with endless opportunities to savor hikes in the colorful parks and... Read More -
5 Fun Things to do in Petaluma
Sonoma County is home to one of the state’s oldest and most historic cities: Petaluma. It boasts a well-maintained downtown... Read More -
3 Unusual Hikes in Sonoma County
Want to try a hike in Sonoma County that’s a bit “off the beaten path” (metaphorically speaking, that is)? Here are three... Read More -
Celebrate Crab Season in Sonoma County
Dungeness Crab season runs from Nov. 3, 2018 until about June 2019 off the Sonoma County coast, and winter is always the... Read More -
5 Fun Things To Do in Bodega Bay
Nestled into a particularly beautiful stretch of Sonoma County’s 55-mile Pacific Coastline, Bodega Bay is a favorite... Read More -
Guide to Hiking in Sonoma County
Comprising 1,768 square miles and stretching for 55 miles along the Pacific Ocean, Sonoma County is big. Also, as anyone... Read More -
Best Parks for Mountain Biking
You’ll find some of the best parks for mountain biking in the majority of Sonoma County’s 60+ state and regional parks.... Read More -
10 Getaway Resorts and Lodges in the Russian River Area
Follow the winding roads along Sonoma County’s backroads to discover 10 of the best getaway resorts and lodges in the... Read More -
Whale Watching along the Sonoma Coast
The annual north-to-south gray whale migration along Sonoma County’s coast peaks during the winter months, with good... Read More -
Trione-Annadel State Park: A Wild Paradise
Get away from it all in Trione-Annadel State Park, which boasts 5,092 pristine and largely undeveloped acres on the... Read More -
4 Unique Northern California Parks for History Lovers
History comes alive in Sonoma County, from the birth of California’s modern wine industry, to the birth of California itself... Read More -
Discover Sonoma Coast State Park
There’s a definite tendency to linger in Sonoma Coast State Park, which offers rocky bluffs, sandy beaches, hidden coves,... Read More -
Explore Bodega Head on the Sonoma Coast
Jutting out into the Pacific Ocean, the small rocky peninsula known as Bodega Head offers stunning bluff top vistas,... Read More -
Sonoma County on Horseback
Whatever your dream about horseback riding might be, you’ll probably find it in Sonoma County:Cantering swiftly on a... Read More -
Quick Guide to RV Travel and Campgrounds in Sonoma County
Sonoma County is paradise for RV travelers — and with good reason. In this part of the world, RV camping offers the same... Read More -
Best Hikes During Fall in Sonoma County's Parks
Sonoma County boasts some of the greatest leaf-peeping and best fall hikes in Northern California. Where else can you see... Read More -
Best Parks for Fishing in Sonoma County
Fishing is plentiful in Sonoma County, and the best places to fish are the state, regional, and other parks located on the... Read More -
Wineries with Fun Sports Activities
Tasting wine in Sonoma County is a lovely experience, but sometimes it’s nice to take a break — maybe get a little exercise.... Read More -
Lake Vacations in Sonoma County
Along with so many other gifts of Mother Nature — mountains and meadows, redwood forests and pygmy trees, and that gorgeous... Read More -
Best Parks for Cross Country Running
Cross-country running — distance running over natural terrain — is easy to find in Sonoma County. With 11 California State... Read More -
Rock Climbing in Sonoma County
One of Sonoma County’s lesser-known but highly rated outdoor adventures is rock climbing. "There aren't a lot of climbing... Read More -
The Rivers of Sonoma County
Sonoma County is blessed with three rivers: the Russian River, which runs through a large portion of the county and is... Read More -
Free Things to Do in Sonoma County
The Sonoma Wine Country lifestyle is luxuriously full and rich — but that doesn't mean it has to be expensive; there are... Read More -
Forestville River Access: Mom's Beach
Winding its way across the heart of Sonoma Wine Country, the Russian River offers a wide variety of outdoor opportunities.... Read More -
Glamping: Luxury Camping in Wine Country
Not everybody thrills to the idea of enjoying a traditional camping experience, filled with pitching a tent, sleeping... Read More -
7 Great Campgrounds for Families in Sonoma County
For families, there are so many benefits to camping. Aside from leading a healthy outdoor life and having fun, you’ll... Read More -
Trails along the Pacific Coast in The Sea Ranch
Extending for 10 miles along a beautiful strip of the Sonoma coast, the community known as The Sea Ranch offers... Read More -
Guide to the Russian River Resort Area
For more than 130 years, travelers have come to the Russian River area in Sonoma County to swim, paddle, hike, wine, dine,... Read More -
Hot Air Ballooning in Sonoma County
Experience the stunning landscape throughout Sonoma County from the basket of a hot-air balloon. It's up, up, and away for a... Read More -
Great Swimming Beaches in Sonoma County
A sizzlin’ summer day in Sonoma County — the kind of day that’s absolutely made for a beautiful beach where you can relax,... Read More -
See California Redwoods in Sonoma County
The serene, majestic beauty of western Sonoma County’s redwood trees recall the primeval redwood forest that covered much of... Read More -
9 Activities for Adrenaline Junkies in Sonoma County
If you're looking for an adrenaline rush while in Wine County, Sonoma County has you covered. Of course, it's true that... Read More -
Where to Visit California Redwoods
Visitors to Sonoma County are often surprised to learn that California redwoods are a common sight. You can hike, bike, and... Read More -
Great Pacific Coast Parks for Beach Walks
A Sonoma County beach walk is bound to create great memories filled with awesome views, the sounds of crashing surf and... Read More -
Backpacking in Sonoma County
Sonoma County is known for so many outdoor pleasures—cycling, hiking, salmon fishing, tidepool exploration, paddle boarding... Read More -
Guide to Cycling in Sonoma County
When it comes to cycling, Sonoma County is one of the best destinations on the planet.Other places may possess challenging... Read More -
Sonoma County Attracts Amateur, Professional Cyclists
Less than an hour north of San Francisco, Sonoma County offers some of the best bicycle routes, not only in Northern... Read More -
Experience the best of Sonoma’s Beachside Camping
There's nothing quite like camping right on the water's edge. Whether it's along the California Coast, the Russian or... Read More -
The Austin Creek State Recreation Area
With nearly 6,000 acres — featuring 20 miles of trails that run through meadows and woodlands and across rolling hills —... Read More -
Best River Beaches and Fishing Spots
Swimming, fishing, or relaxing along the banks of the Russian River — known locally as simply "The River" — gives... Read More -
Camping: California Wine Country Style
Sonoma County's campgrounds offer a full range of opportunities — campgrounds along the California Coast or next to the... Read More -
3 Sonoma County Gardens to Visit
An astonishing diversity of gardens fourish in Sonoma County, thanks to the region’s Mediterranean climate and rich soil.... Read More -
5 Great Outdoor Activities for this Summer
If you’re visiting Sonoma County for the first time—or if you live here and just want to try something new—here are five... Read More -
Bike Trails in Santa Rosa
Cyclists visiting Sonoma County have access to a vast network of bike trails within the city of Santa Rosa (bike rentals,... Read More -
7 Great Parks and Trails for Horseback Riding
Horseback riding can be done all year long in Sonoma County, though it can get a bit muddy in winter. Even so, smack in the... Read More -
Guide to Camping in Sonoma County
Camping in Sonoma County is amazing, perhaps in part because the county is so big — 1,768 square miles, to be exact, with 55... Read More -
5 Fun Things To Do in Gualala
Perched just outside of the northern-most edge of the Sonoma County coast in Mendocino and nestled into craggy bluffs at the... Read More -
Jack London State Historic Park
Glen Ellen was home to writer/adventurer Jack London from 1905 until his untimely death in 1916 — and today the Beauty... Read More -
Explore Sonoma County for Earth Day
Celebrate Earth Day 2018 (or any day) by getting out in nature and exploring a corner of Sonoma County you haven’t visited... Read More -
10 Great Wildflower Walks in Sonoma County
In Spring, kissed by winter rains, Sonoma County bursts with a colorful array of wildflowers, including deep orange poppies... Read More -
Best Sonoma County Birdwatching Parks
With terrain that includes Pacific Ocean beaches, healthy marshlands, thick forests, and broad meadows — not to mention its... Read More -
Biggest Running Events and Marathons in Sonoma County
With its beautiful, varied terrain and extensive back-country roads, Sonoma County is a runner’s paradise. Which is... Read More -
Top Parks for Spring Wildflower Walks
With its beautiful regional and California state parks, Sonoma County makes it easy to “get green” by simply getting out... Read More -
Spring Outdoor Activities in Sonoma County
Sonoma County is gorgeous year-round, but spring is particularly pretty, inviting locals and visitors to explore the green-... Read More -
Guide to The Sonoma County Regional Park System
Sonoma County’s thriving regional park system consists of more than 50 parks — including trails and open spaces — and... Read More -
Outdoor Activities in Sonoma County
With its mild Mediterranean climate, mountains, valleys, forests and more than 50 miles of Pacific Ocean coastline, Sonoma... Read More -
Armstrong Redwoods
It’s impossible to visit Sonoma County’s Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve and not be transformed, however... Read More -
Sonoma County State Parks
Sonoma County contains such extraordinary geographical diversity — including the Pacific Ocean, rivers, lakes, beaches,... Read More -
5 Fun Things To Do in Occidental
Tucked away in western Sonoma County, the tiny community of Occidental was founded in 1876 as the last stop on the North... Read More -
How to Get from Sonoma to the Beach
Bodega Bay is approximately one hour from the town of Sonoma, which makes it a slam-dunk destination for a perfect day... Read More -
Best Parks for Redwood Walks
There’s something memorable about being surrounded by trees that have lived more than a thousand years. You find yourself... Read More -
Best Parks for Family Outings
Hankering for a fun-filled day in the park with the family? Visit one of these parks and you’ll be carting home bushels of... Read More -
Best Parks For a Picnic
Many state, regional and community parks in Sonoma County contain picnic areas with tables, barbecues, and rest rooms nearby... Read More -
5 Fun Things To Do in Guerneville
Charming, rustic, and quirky, the town of Guerneville blends towering redwoods, cool river waters, laid-back... Read More -
5 Fun Things To Do in Forestville
Beautifully situated in Sonoma County’s Russian River Valley amidst rolling hills, soaring redwood trees and lush... Read More -
Camping with Awesome Sunset Views
Has Sonoma County got great sunsets? With 55 miles of sensationally beautiful coastline, you bet we do! In fact, sunsets are... Read More -
Best Beaches on the Sonoma Coast
Breathtaking California beaches, rugged coastline, the legendary Pacific Coast Highway (known as Highway 1 to locals), and... Read More -
8 Natural Wonders of Sonoma County
One of the best ways to get familiar with Sonoma County is to check out its superb natural wonders. These marvelous twists... Read More -
Yoga and Fitness in Sonoma County
Imagine how amazing you'd feel if you made yoga, breathwork, meditation and other harmonious practices a part of your... Read More -
Sonoma County’s Festival of Hot Air Balloons
The annual Sonoma County Hot Air Balloon Classic floats into Windsor’s 27-acre Keiser Park every year in June. Check here... Read More -
Three Great Cycling Rides in Sonoma County
It’s hard to beat Sonoma County as a cycling destination. The range of terrain is so vast that it practically guarantees you... Read More -
Farm Tours are Delicious Adventures
Sonoma County’s rich agricultural heritage is alive and well. Throughout the county, in all sorts of terrain, family farms... Read More -
New Hiking Trails: North Sonoma Mountain and Taylor Mountain Regional Parks
Two new and fabulous trails welcome Sonoma County hikers this spring:Taylor Mountain Regional Park[[{"type":"media","... Read More -
Biking Events in West Sonoma County
Because of its green, artistic, community spirit, Sebastopol has been awarded international designation as a Cittaslow ("... Read More -
Boat launches in Sonoma County Regional Parks
Despite the economy’s ups and downs, Sonoma County’s ambitious regional parks system continues to offer an impressive array... Read More -
Dog Friendly Hikes in Sonoma County Your Pup Will Love
I don’t know about you, but whether or not a hike is dog-friendly is a deciding factor for me when choosing what park to... Read More -
It’s whale season on the Sonoma Coast
Whales can be spotted off Sonoma’s rugged 55-mile coast throughout the year, but right now—the month of March—is the best... Read More -
Autumn Birding in Sonoma County
With so many waterways and so much open space, Sonoma County is prime bird-watching territory—and autumn, when migratory... Read More -
9 Fun Swimming Pools in Sonoma County
When temperatures rise in Sonoma County, there is nothing better than a trip to the pool. Aside from providing a relaxing... Read More -
Camping with Your Dog in Northern California
Have a yen to pitch a tent and get close to nature — with your favorite canine in tow? If so, numerous Sonoma County... Read More -
Bodega Bay: Boat charters & tours
I keep hearing about this year’s marvelous salmon season, so I called up a couple of Sonoma Coast boat charter companies in... Read More -
Sonoma County Marathons
If you’re fleet of foot and possess a competitive streak, Sonoma County’s lineup of marathon events over the coming months... Read More -
Camping
Spending a week or two in wine country doesn’t need to cost a fortune, especially if you’re the kind of outdoors-lover that’... Read More -
Boating to Your Campsite at Lake Sonoma
To really get away from it all, there’s nothing like piling into a speedboat, canoe, or kayak with your camping gear and... Read More -
Water Bark for Dogs at Spring Lake Regional Park
Beginning with its first big splash in 2014, Water Bark has reigned supreme as the “must-do” tail-wagging event on Sonoma... Read More