Explore The Best Trails In Sonoma County
It is safe to say that our charming Wine Country has never lacked in natural beauty. From exploring lush vineyards and tasting world-class wines to immersing yourself in the serene beauty of quiet trails and coastal beaches, Sonoma County promises an unforgettable experience for anyone looking for adventure. With summer in full swing, what better way to experience all of this than on a bike and taking in the beauty at your leisure? Grab your bike (we got you covered if you don’t have one) and let’s dive into some of the best trails in Sonoma County to explore:
Santa Rosa
Joe Rodota Trail
Named after the first director of Sonoma County Regional Parks, the Joe Rodota Trail offers some of the county’s most sweeping rural vistas. The trail is actually built along the corridor of the old Petaluma and Santa Rosa Railway, which once ran between Santa Rosa, Petaluma, and Sebastopol. Frequently a favorite among cyclists, this trail includes picturesque rural sections of farmland, the famous Laguna de Santa Rosa, and beautiful surrounding mountains that are sure to leave an impression. If you find yourself in Santa Rosa with free time, this is a trail you won’t want to miss out on.
Santa Rosa Creek Trail
The Santa Rosa Creek Trail runs along the creek between Willowside Road and the City of Santa Rosa’s Prince Memorial Greenway into downtown Santa Rosa. What makes this trail so popular year-round with everyone, not just cyclists, is that it has beautiful views of waterways, farms, vineyards, and the surrounding mountains. The trail is also home to a variety of birds and wildlife, creating a serene experience no matter when you decide to go. If you want the trail experience and a bit extra on top, we are happy to tell you that our Sonoma Wine Country guided bike tour takes you through the Santa Rosa Creek Trail to visit some of the best wineries in Santa Rosa.
Windsor
Foothill Regional Park
Located in the foothills of the Mayacamas mountains, Foothills regional park features thick oak woodlands, rolling hillsides, ridge-top views of northern Sonoma County, three ponds for bass and bluegill fishing, grassy meadows, and spring wildflowers. It is the premier location for anyone looking to connect with the outdoors in Windsor. The park also has 6.8 miles of varied and beautiful trails that you can hike and bike on, so make sure to plan for more than one trip if you have the time.
Windsor Creek Trail
Windsor’s creeks have always been a highlight for people looking to enjoy a quiet moment with nature on their free time. Like all creeks, Windsor’s creeks provide a home for all types of wildlife essential to the ecosystem. Expect to see all sorts of birds, reptiles, small mammals, and even fish as you take your time exploring these charming trails. If you’re looking for a short and serene ride through nature, these trails are a perfect way to unwind and enjoy yourself before tackling any bigger plans for the day.
Healdsburg
Dry Creek Road
Healdsburg’s West Dry Creek Road offers a charming cycling experience through the vineyards of Dry Creek Valley. Between the beautiful views, renowned wineries, and quiet roads, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The road itself is a small, newly paved country road with no shoulder, so expect a slow ride alongside the other cyclists enjoying the trail. Dry Creek Road is also a moderately hilly ride, making it suitable for a wide variety of skill levels to appreciate. Finally, if you need to grab something while on the road, the Dry Creek General Store has you covered. So hop on your bike, soak in the vineyard views, and enjoy the charm of Healdsburg’s West Dry Creek Road.
Russian River Valley Loop
The Russian River Valley Bike Loop takes you on a picturesque experience through the vineyards of the Russian River Valley area in our beautiful Wine Country. The loop ride takes you through the Russian River Valley area and back to Dry Creek Valley, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy an extended trip. While the terrain elevation is similar to West Dry Creek Rd, there are a few longer hills along the base of the Coastal Range on the west side of the valley. Expect to see several breathtaking views of vineyards, the valley’s signature rolling hills, and lush landscapes that make the growing of world-renowned wine possible. There is even a grocery store and picnic area along the way for resting up and taking in the views. While a bit longer than the other rides, this is a ride you will not want to miss if you can fit it into your itinerary.
Bodega Bay
Bodega Head Ride
The Bodega Head Ride is a fantastic and affordable way to experience Bodega Bay, no matter the weather. The ride itself is a very low traffic road with large bicycle lanes in both directions. This one way ride takes you along the bay all the way to the beautiful Bodega Head State Park, with several stops you can make in between. You can visit any of three other parks, some of the best clam chowder in the United States, and UC Davis’s Bodega Marine Laboratory. Once at Bodega Head, you can park your bike and take a hike through the breathtaking trails for a completely different experience. If you want to take your trip to the next level, our Bodega Bay Bike & Hike Tour takes you through all the highlights of the trip, blending the bike ride and hike through the trails seamlessly into an unforgettable experience. The best part? Clam Chowder is on us!