3 Best Hiking Trails in Santa Rosa, CA

This has become my place to go to quiet my mind. Even though it's ride along the HWY (12), once you get into the trail, you can almost forget that it's there because of all the brush acting like a sound barrier. There are berry bushes, rose hips, chicory and so many other things along the trail. The dragonflies are all around right now, it's magical and highly recommended.

The part we did was mostly paved but not fresh smooth pavement! Some gravel. Mostly exposed. Lots of birds! Saw Bullocks Oriole, Red Wing Blackbirds, Green Violet Swallows and Tree Swallows among others.

A unique walking trail in marshlands that changes scenery throughout the year. During the winter it floods and it's hard to imagine people were once walking on the trail before. The trail goes through the Laguna and marsh and grassland and you can catch some birds and backdrops of vineyards and unique views of changing landscapes. Wear good hiking boots (preferably ones you don't mind getting dirty) as depending on the time of year it can get wet. My dog loves zippin' along this trail and of course doesn't mind getting dirty :) It's mainly flat with twists and turns and great for daily strolls or a fun adventure. Easy parking on both ends of the trail (either accessed off Hwy 12 or Occidental Road). Catch the Strawberry Man just a quick drive up Hwy 12 for an amazing basket of strawberries on your way out! These pictures were taken on the Fall Solstice during sunset.

A great open hike with many different opportunities for different fitness levels plus this park is dog friendly!! This was a very busy park but you still felt like you were out hiking alone at the same time. There were numerous routes that ranged from a slow incline to very steep ones so people from all fitness levels are able to enjoy the prettiness of the area. Our favorite part was the super friendly cows that came right up to us and then followed us a part of the way. It was definitely the curious young ones who did but our dog even enjoyed getting up nose to nose to them. Definitely watch out for the big poop mounds along the trail but it was still fun. A great moderate hike.

Great park with well maintained trails shaded by beautiful oak trees. There is nice/moderate elevation gain on most trails so be prepared with some water & sunscreen if it’s warm out. The park is very popular especially on weekends and the parking lot fills up fast so get there early. Many people walking their dogs and a few mountain bikers as well.

Such a beautiful park. Parking is 7$ can pay with cash or card. We took the Western trail and went off trail a bit to go up the mountain and found this bench where we saw the sunset! It’s easy to achieve high altitude in short time.