The California Redwoods
If you’re visiting wine country for an extended trip, you may want to enjoy some of the natural beauty of the region beyond wine country.
The California Redwoods are an iconic West Coast destination, and for good reason. These stunning trees soar 300+ feet high and can be over 1,000 years old! Old Growth Redwood Groves are easily accessible from Napa and Sonoma.
You have two options.
Option 1: Muir Woods, Marin County
If you are traveling to Napa Valley or Sonoma from San Francisco via The Golden Gate Bridge, make a detour on your way and spend some time in Muir Woods. This old growth redwood grove located on Mount Tamalpais is a gorgeous destination.
The road may be windy to get there, but the trees are stunning. Enjoy a leisurely walk on the flat trail or add on one of Mount Tam’s more rigorous treks.
Enjoy breakfast or lunch before Muir Woods in the adorable waterfront town of Sausalito.
In order to access Muir Woods, you must either register and take a shuttle bus from Mill Valley/Larkspur/Sausalito or make a parking reservation for your vehicle (there is a small fee for either option). If you are staying in San Francisco with no car, there are shuttle buses available for a day trip to Muir Woods.
Option 2: Armstrong Redwoods, Sonoma County
If you find yourself in Napa or Sonoma already, it is best to avoid trekking all the way back to Muir Woods for the day. Armstrong Redwoods is a beautiful hidden gem in Sonoma County well worth the visit. We typically opt for Armstrong Redwoods as it’s a beautiful, easy drive from Napa (don’t take curvy Trinity Road from Napa, there are many better routes).
For lunch, bring a picnic to enjoy under the stunning redwoods in the park. Or, on the way, stop by historic Korbel Winery and enjoy their delicatessen and sparkling wine (please don’t drink and drive). They do a wonderful educational sparkling wine tour.
The path at Armstrong Redwoods is a flat, nicely accessible 1.5 mile stroll through the trees, or you can add on some of the neighboring trails for a more rigorous hike. There is a nominal parking fee at Armstrong Redwoods.
Redwoods and The Coast- A great day
We often pair Armstrong Redwoods with a loop out to the coast. Enjoy seafood and/or the beach near Bodega Bay, looking out at The Pacific Ocean.
Doran Beach gets busy on the weekends but has nice facilities and is a great place to access the water. Or enjoy Salmon Creek Beach with its sand dunes. If you’re looking for a coastal hike—walk the cliffs at Bodega Head or the boardwalk and coastal trail Kortum Trail.
Worth the Trip
As soon as you step into The Redwoods, the feeling is different--the temperature drops, the sound dampens, the majesty envelops you. These are some of the oldest living things on Earth. Experiencing the redwoods is a great California activity if you’re visiting the area.