Things to Do in the Parks This Winter
HIT THE TRAILS
Winter is a great time to enjoy the parks without the crowds. We have guided hikes planned for Tolay Lake Regional Park near Petaluma and family hikes at Spring Lake Regional Park’s Environmental Discovery Center in Santa Rosa. With 49 parks, we have beautiful trails for walkers and hikers of all abilities. With the right gear – layered clothing, sturdy waterproof shoes, and rain gear – a day in one of the County parks can be a refreshing way to enjoy the season.
ROMP WITH YOUR BEST FRIEND
Dogs love winter exercise too! Dogs on leash are allowed in all Regional Parks, with the exception of the swimming areas at Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach and Spring Lake and the hiking trails at Shiloh Regional Park. Dogs can even run free in special off-leash dog parks at Sonoma Valley Regional Park in Glen Ellen, Ragle Ranch Regional Park in Sebastopol and Ernie Smith Community Park in Sonoma.
TAKE A RIDE
Riding in the cool season is invigorating and can offer a unique perspective on our parks. The West County & Joe Rodota Trails offer lovely views of farms and vineyards. The paved route goes from Stony Point Road in Santa Rosa all the way to Forestville, primarily along former railways. Spring Lake Regional Park also offers a scenic, paved route for cyclists. Download a map here.
WATCH THE WHALES
It's whale watching season along the Sonoma Coast. Gray whales are migrating from Alaska to Baja and back, and the Sonoma shoreline is a prime viewing spot. If you visit the county’s far North Coast, viewing is best from Gualala Point and Stillwater Regional Parks, or Black Point Beach Access.
MARVEL AT THE MIGRATION
Migrating shorebirds are in abundance along the Sonoma Coast. Look for waterfowl in the Bodega harbor and unusual birds near the boat launch ramp at Westside Park (Emperor Goose and Steller's Eider have hung out here in the past.) Look offshore from the headlands for pelagic species that may have been blown close to shore by storms.
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