This 1.8-mile multi-use trail lets visitors experience some of the biologically diverse landscape of Sonoma County's largest freshwater wetland.

Dry in the summer and fall, the Laguna de Santa Rosa transforms into a flooded, marshy landscape during winter rains. Its vernal pools, riparian woodland and valley oak savannah are rich habitat for wildlife, birds, and plants, including several special-status species.

The trail runs east side of the Laguna's main channel between Highway 12 and Occidental Road, with parking areas and trail heads along both roads.

The trail mostly passes through grasslands dotted with oaks and eucalyptus. Visitors walking north on the trail from the Highway 12 entrance will enjoy distant views of Mount Saint Helena and adjacent vineyards. The trail loops around Kelly Pond, which offers an overlook for great bird-watching.

An additional 0.6-mile pedestrian-only segment loops off the trail toward the riparian cover along the channel and connects with Sebastopol's Laguna de Santa Rosa Wetland Preserve Trail. Open daily from sunrise to sunset.

• Property Amenities:
  • Accessible
  • Family friendly

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  By Thomas B - on Dec 21, 2019

  Old ranch setting

  Great place for photographs! Their effort to protect the Laguna is heroic. Offer so many educational classes at a reasonable price.

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  By Sarah P - on Dec 11, 2018

  Paradise

  Beautiful valley oaks, pristine laguna channel and wonderful native animals and plants. I will forever hold this place in my heart.

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  By princeofpinot - on Nov 26, 2018

  A Flat Walking Trail Among Grasslands

  Plenty of free parking just off Highway 12 a short distance east from downtown Sebastopol at the trailhead. Free admission. Unpaved trail through grasslands that is relatively flat. The trail is...

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