Hiking
Choose Your Hiking Adventure
Santa Rosa is a haven for nature lovers, offering a diverse range of hiking trails that showcase the area's natural beauty. Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk or a challenging hike, the city’s parks offer something for everyone. From the serene landscapes of Spring Lake to the rugged paths of Taylor Mountain, there’s a trail waiting for you.
Hikes for Beginners
New to hiking? Santa Rosa's parks offer plenty of beginner-friendly trails perfect for easing into the great outdoors. The Santa Rosa Creek Trail features a peaceful stroll along the creek and connects to Downtown Santa Rosa, while Spring Lake Regional Park provides flat, lake-side paths ideal for a relaxing walk. At Laguna de Santa Rosa, you can enjoy wide trails and boardwalks through wetland habitats, perfect for spotting local wildlife. The Joe Rodota Trail offers a smooth, paved route for easy walking or biking, and Howarth Park’s easy trails around Lake Ralphine are great for a leisurely outing.
Hikes for a Challenge
Ready to test your limits? Santa Rosa has challenging trails that reward your efforts with stunning scenery and wildlife. The Rough Go Loop at Trione-Annadel State Park lives up to its name with rocky terrain and steep climbs, while Taylor Mountain Regional Park’s Eastern Route challenges hikers with its elevation gain of over 1,100 feet, offering panoramic views of the city below. For those seeking even more adventure, Gunsight Rock in Hood Mountain Regional Park & Open Space Preserve is a must-visit. This trail is more challenging, but the payoff is incredible—on a clear day, you can see all the way to San Francisco, about 50 miles away. It also offers some of the best vistas of Sonoma County that any trail in the area can provide.
Parks for Families
Santa Rosa's parks offer the perfect mix of fun and outdoor exploration for families. Howarth Park is a beloved destination with something for everyone. In addition to its playground, merry-go-round, and miniature train, the park features both paved and dirt trails that wind around Lake Ralphine, ideal for a family walk or hike. Right next door, Spring Lake Regional Park provides even more opportunities for adventure, with paved and dirt trails that are perfect for all ages. Families can also enjoy the Environmental Discovery Center, seasonal water park, and scenic walks through nature. For those with active kids, A Place to Play offers a vibrant playground and plenty of space to run and play, along with paths for walking. These parks are perfect for families who want to combine outdoor fun with a bit of hiking.
Parks in Santa Rosa
State Parks
- Trione-Annadel State Park | 6201 Channel Dr
- Sugarloaf Ridge State Park | 2605 Adobe Canyon Rd
- Full List of State Parks Near Santa Rosa
Regional Parks
- Spring Lake Regional Park | 5585 Newanga Ave
- Taylor Mountain Regional Park | 2080 Kawana Terrace
- Full List of Regional Parks Near Santa Rosa
Community Parks
- Howarth Park | 630 Summerfield Rd
- A place to Play | 2375 W 3rd St
- Full List of Community Parks in Santa Rosa
Beyond Santa Rosa: Notable Trails Nearby
While Santa Rosa offers a variety of beautiful hikes, there are also some noteworthy trails just outside the city:
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Walk among ancient giants in Armstrong Woods, home to some of the tallest and oldest redwoods in California. The Parson Jones Tree towers at 310 feet, while the Colonel Armstrong Tree has stood for over 1,400 years. The Pioneer Nature Trail is an easy, ADA-accessible option to experience these awe-inspiring trees.
Sonoma Coast State Park
For those craving coastal beauty, Sonoma Coast State Park offers dramatic ocean views, rugged cliffs, and miles of sandy beaches. Trails like the Kortum Trail provide stunning seaside vistas, making this park a must-visit for those who love the ocean and hiking combined.
Jack London State Park
History and nature intertwine at Jack London State Park, where you can explore trails that wind through historic ruins, oak woodlands, and up to the summit of Sonoma Mountain. The Mountain Trail offers a rewarding climb with panoramic views that stretch across the valley.
