Trip Itineraries

Guide to Russian River Valley

Canoeing on the Russian River

No matter the season or the level of water, there's always plenty to do and see along the Russian River in Northern California.

For more than 130 years, travelers have come to the Russian River area in Sonoma County to swim, paddle, hike, wine and dine, or simply relax along this lovely waterway. As the Russian River winds its way through lush Northern California’s Sonoma Wine Country, it creates a corridor of gently moving water, riverside greenery, and unique towns that line its banks.

Use this guide to follow the river from one quaint town to the next, through wine growing regions, to the Sonoma Coast and the place where the Russian River empties into the Pacific Ocean.

Follow Our Russian River Valley Itinerary

We split up our Russian River Valley itinerary into three sections: North, Redwoods, and Coast. Drive each section by itself, or combine them all into a multi-day excursion through one of Northern California’s most incredible landscapes.

Explore the Russian River Valley North Itinerary

Follow the Russian River as it winds through northern Sonoma County from Cloverdale, through Geyserville,and down to Healdsburg. Stops along the way include sculpture gardens, winery tasting rooms, Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.

Explore the Russian River Valley Redwoods Itinerary

Follow the Russian River as it ventures through California redwood forests. This leg of the itinerary weaves through charming towns like Windsor, Forestville, Guerneville, and Monte Rio, with plenty of options for family-friendly fun like canoeing, swimming, tubing, and hiking in the Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve.

Explore the Russian River Valley Coast Itinerary

Continue west on your adventure to the point where the Russian River empties into the Pacific Ocean. Cruise on majestic cliffs towering over the waves and explore the tiny coastal towns of Duncans Mills and Jenner. Stroll on scenic beaches, dine on the fresh Sonoma County seafood, and watch for seals and whales.

Choose Your Own Adventure

The Russian River Valley lush wine-growing region in Sonoma County, California

You can easily craft your own itinerary to explore this lovely waterway and its many resort towns using our trip-planning app. If wine is your passion, learn more about Sonoma County’s wine regions in this area, including Alexander Valley, Dry Creek, and Russian River.

Or, explore Sonoma County’s best river beaches and fishing spots. No matter the season, the Russian River area offers endless opportunities.

Find memorable dining and accommodations with our complete list of searchable Sonoma Wine Country restaurants or lodging in Sonoma County, and filter by area.

Check out our page on Sustainable Travel, and look over the Leave No Trace Seven Principles. Together, we can protect and preserve the beauty and natural resources of Sonoma County for generations to come.