Occidental, California
One of the top outdoor adventures in Occidental, California is the Grove of Old Trees hiking trail. This must-visit trail is a 48-acre preserve, home to towering coastal redwoods, which are some of the tallest and oldest trees on earth. As you walk, you'll be treated to scenic views of lush ferns and wildflowers. The trail is moderately challenging, making it suitable for most fitness levels. Another fantastic attraction is the Salmon Creek Falls, a stunning waterfall that cascades down a rocky cliff. It's a short hike from the trailhead, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. For those interested in bird-watching, the Bodega Bay is a prime location. Here, you can observe various species of birds, including the majestic Bald Eagle. The best Trails and Outdoor Activities in Occidental offer a unique combination of natural beauty and outdoor fun. So, grab your hiking boots and explore the best that Occidental has to offer!
Top Spots in and near Occidental
-
Cazadero, California
Bouldering at Fort Ross
3.0The main boulder is right there on the water. You literally have to watch out for the waves coming up on the shore otherwise they might wipe out your camp. But it's an awesome spot with even more awesome routes. There's also a traverse along the back wall if you're looking for something a little ...Read more -
Inverness, CaliforniaAbbotts Lagoon Trail
4.63.43 mi / 102 ft gainIf you like beaches, headlands, scenic landscapes, wildflowers, and tons of wildlife viewing, you should give this hike a try. Although it only takes about an hour to complete the out-and-back, the vibe surrounding this area is just begging you to slow down and enjoy your natural surroundings. T...Read more -
Jenner, CaliforniaTimber Cove Coastal Trails & Bufano Peace Obelisk
0.53 mi / 112.5 ft gainHiking at Timber Cove: Sonoma Coast's Hidden Coastal Trail Network Timber Cove offers over two miles of private hiking trails right in front of the resort, providing guests and visitors an intimate connection with California's rugged Sonoma coastline. These accessible oceanfront trails wind thro...Read more -
Petaluma, California
Helen Putnam Regional Park Loop
4.04.87 mi / 673 ft gainA 216-acre park, Helen Putnam offers 9 trails that are relatively short but can be combined however you wish. Go 2 miles or 10 miles. Loop in and out, up or around. I take a different route every time I hike here. For a good 4.8-mile hike, begin at the southwest corner, where the parking lot and...Read more -
Petaluma, California
Helen Putnam Inner Loop
4.01.44 mi / 236 ft gainThe Helen Putnam Inner Loop is a scenic and relatively short hiking trail located in Petaluma, California. This loop offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and accessibility. This trail is ideal for hikers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a shorter adventure with stunning vistas. T...Read more -
Santa Rosa, California
Hood Mountain Summit Via Lower and Upper Johnson Ridge Trails
5.95 mi / 2054 ft gainHood Mountain Summit via the Lower Johnson and Upper Johnson Ridge Trails is a 6 mile out-and-back trek located in Santa Rosa, CA. The trailhead starts at the Pythian Road parking lot, accessed from Highway 12. The hike takes 3.5 to 4 hours to complete and is considered strenuous. All trails are...Read more -
Petaluma, California
Helen Putnam Northern Loop
4.52.52 mi / 348 ft gainThe Helen Putnam Northern Loop is a scenic hiking trail in Petaluma, California, offering a peaceful outdoor experience with breathtaking views and natural charm. This trail is perfect for hikers seeking a blend of gentle exercise and stunning landscapes. Trail Highlights: Length & Di...Read more -
Inverness, California
Kayak Camping in Point Reyes
4.9Like camping in remote locations? Love oysters? This is it! Tomales Bay offers boat-in only campgrounds along the east side of the peninsula. We departed from Chicken Ranch Beach, which is on the west side of Tomales Bay. We jumped in our kayaks and headed north in the bay for a quick breather at...Read more -
Santa Rosa, California
Gunsight Rock via Hood Mountain Trail
5.07.91 mi / 2372 ft gainHike to Gunsight Rock through Hood Mountain Regional Park to get a view overlooking Sonoma and Napa Valley. In order to get to the trailhead take Highway 12 to Los Alamos Rd, the road will then turn into Timberline Dr, this will take you to the trailhead. There is a parking fee of $8. From the p...Read more -
Jenner, California
Stillwater Cove
4.0It's a short walk down to the beach and there is a nice trail that follows along the creek. Be sure to check the forecast when heading out to Stillwater Cove. If it's sunny a few miles inland, fog may still be on the coast, making it quite a bit cooler. Make sure you pack extra layers just in cas...Read more -
Inverness, California
Cypress Tree Tunnel in Point Reyes
4.3Just north of San Francisco, there's a row of giant Monterey cypress trees that forms a “tree tunnel”. Loved by Bay Area locals, it's a tucked away spot in the Point Reyes National Seashore for photographers to capture early morning sun rays, or for anyone to get some moments of solitude. At the...Read more -
Inverness, California
S.S. Point Reyes Shipwreck
3.9Explore the shipwreck of the S.S. Point Reyes, perched on a sand bar off the shoreline of Tomales Bay. It is located in the small town of Inverness, just behind the grocery store. If you are driving North on Sir Francis Drake Blvd it will be on your right side. Parking is easy and you will see a ...Read more -
Glen Ellen, California
Wolf House in Jack London SP
There is a museum in "The House of Happy Walls" which Mrs. London built in redwood grove find park information, exhibits and a small sales area there. A nearby trail leads to Jack London’s grave and to the remains of "Wolf House," London’s dream house which was destroyed by fire in 1913. The par...Read more -
Glen Ellen, California
Sonoma Ridge Trail
9.2 mi / 1955 ft gainSonoma Ridge Trail is a beautiful 9.2-mile out-and-back hike located near Glen Ellen, California. This hike is moderately difficult, with about 1955 feet in elevation change. 95% of the trail is covered in forest shade. Important Notes:Bikes and Horses are permitted on the trails. Dogs are NOT p...Read more -
Inverness, California
Estero Trail to Drake's Estero
5.07.94 mi / 696 ft gainJune sunshine blazes on your shoulders during this scenic stroll through the Point Reyes Seashore. The trail is alive and awash with colorful wildflowers around every corner. Beginning at the trailhead, just off Home Ranch Road, with a convenient parking lot and bathroom, you'll wade through a h...Read more -
Kenwood, California
Pony Gate-Canyon Loop
4.52.17 mi / 568 ft gainThe Pony Gate-Canyon Loop within Sugarloaf Ridge State Park is a new favorite of mine on my list of family and kid-friendly hikes. Our little girls did great with this hike and loved it. If you can get moving early in the day and begin your hike around breakfast time, you might find there are few...Read more
