Strong and Steady

If Muir Woods has a doppelganger, it’s Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve near Sonoma County’s Russian River. This 805-acre park is home to some seriously old (1,400+ years!) and impressively tall (310 feet!) coast redwoods, the tallest living things on earth.

Thanks to the forethought of Colonel James Armstrong back in the late 1800s, these majestic beauties were saved from the clear-cutting of the time. The park re-opened last year (in 2021) after a wildfire affected parts of it. And while some trails remain closed, you can still wander among the majestic highlights along the Pioneer Nature Trail, a mostly level trail that’s also ADA accessible. Bring a picnic. This is a place for quiet contemplation and appreciation of the beautiful comforts in nature.

BONUS DELI: Pick up your deli sandwiches and picnic provisions at Piknik Town Market in Guerneville.

Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve is three miles north of Guerneville on Armstrong Woods Road. No dogs on hiking trails.