Half-a-Canoe Trail

Just 90 minutes north of San Francisco in the heart of Sonoma County wine country, the Discovery & Pioneer Nature Trail Loop at Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve offers one of the most accessible ways to walk among ancient coast redwoods — including trees that have been standing since before the Magna Carta was signed. The 1.26-mile loop combines the Discovery Trail (a short, partia...

The hike starts at the Gilliam Creek Trailhead, halfway up Armstrong Woods Road on the way to Bullfrog Pond. There is an $8 fee to enter the park, to be paid at the ranger kiosk as you enter Armstrong Woods.  HIKING Begin hiking by descending the Gilliam Creek Trail. The descent is long and steep in the beginning and leads you down to Schoolhouse Creek, at which point the slope becomes more g...

Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach Park is a beloved local recreational area situated along the Russian River in the heart of Sonoma County's wine country. This park combines natural beauty with family-friendly amenities, offering visitors a perfect blend of riverside relaxation and outdoor activities. Essential Details Location: 13839 Old Redwood Highway, Healdsburg, CA 95448 Hours: Daw...

The Parson Jones Tree is the tallest tree in the reserve, measuring more than 310 feet (94 m) in height. This is longer than the length of a football field!  Named after a lumberman who chose to preserve this portion of the park in the 1870s, the Colonel Armstrong Tree is the oldest tree in the grove, estimated to be over 1400 years old.  I think one of the best things about this place is how...

This park most resembles Muir Woods, and if you're looking to get out of the tourist trap, head to Armstrong Redwoods and make a day of it. This 3-mile hike takes off from the sign pointing to East Ridge Trail. As you begin a slight climb up the trail, you'll be under the cover of the redwoods, so sun won't be too big of an issue. Stay on this trail for approximately 1.25 miles, where you'll re...

The Pioneer Nature Trail, a gentle 1-mile pathway, offers one of the most accessible introductions to the majestic coastal redwoods of Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve in Guerneville, California. This family-friendly trail provides an intimate encounter with towering ancient trees while requiring minimal hiking effort, making it perfect for visitors of all ages and abilities. Trail Hig...