Two hikers laughing and taking photos at the sunset at the summit of Bald Mountain in Sugarloaf Ridge State Park

Nature Therapy

When was the last time your prescription read "explore a lavender labyrinth" or "hike to a summit for sunset." Indeed, Sonoma County is just the dose of wellness and outdoors the doctor ordered. These five outdoor experiences are designed by nature and go down smooth.

Week: 04.28.2021
Regions: Northern & Southern CA

Summit Sunset

Sunset Hike to Bald Mountain in Sugarloaf Ridge State Park

Two hikers laughing and taking photos at the sunset at the summit of Bald Mountain in Sugarloaf Ridge State Park
A sunset summit hike doesn’t get better than Bald Mountain in Sonoma's Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. Set in the Mayacamas Mountains, full moon hikes at this park are beautiful too. There's also a chance to get a last minute campsite!
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Lavender Labyrinth

Lavender Labyrinth at Bees N Blooms in Santa Rosa

Two women at the entrance of the Lavender Labyrinth at Bees N Blooms in Santa Rosa
Ducks at Bees N Blooms Labyrinth Lavender Farm in Petaluma
Two people walking the lavender labyrinth at Bees N Blooms in Petaluma
Two people walking the lavender labyrinth at the Labyrinth and Flower Garden at Bees N Blooms in Petaluma
Labyrinths are meditative meanders. Add fragrant organic lavender and you're at Bees N Blooms at the foot of Taylor Mountain near Santa Rosa, experiencing their “ancient pathway of peace” and more.
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Outdoor Zen in Sonoma County

Sonoma County Wellness and Outdoors

Sonoma County Wellness Outdoors kayaking Spring Lake
Sonoma County’s abundant natural beauty is good for your mind, body, and spirit. From redwoods and rhododendron walks, to yoga in a vineyard, here are five ways to soothe your soul in Sonoma County.
Plan Your Outdoor Wellness Vacation in Sonoma County

Pedal, Poppies, Picnic

Bike or hike at Helen Putnam Regional Park near Petaluma

Woman sitting at a bench overlooking the fields and foothills at Helen Putnam Regional Park near Petaluma.
Biker by the water at Helen Putnam Regional Park in Sonoma County
Poppies on a trail in Helen Putnam Regional Park Petaluma
Biker on a trail at Helen Putnam Regional Park in Sonoma County Petaluma
Helen Putnam Regional Park punches above her weight. The compact yet bountiful park near Petaluma explodes with wildflowers every spring, in particular the state’s signature California poppy.
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Soothing North Sonoma

Hike North Sonoma Mountain Regional Park and Visit Matanzas Creek Winery

A hiker looking over wildflower fields
Hike among wildflowers and soaring views at North Sonoma Mountain Regional Park, then wine taste at Matanzas Creek where the serene, laid-back outdoor setting is one of the best in wine country.
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Vineyard Bathing

Hike and picnic at Bartholomew Park in Sonoma

Woman walking her dog in a forest hiking at Bartholomew Park in Sonoma
We know forest bathing, but how about vineyard bathing? Combine forest and vineyard for blissful hiking at Bartholomew Park in Sonoma. The park has a good 3-mile trail and beautiful winery grounds.
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Trending Stories NorCal

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  1. Sponsored

    The 2025 Hiking Calendar Is Here!

    Ready to make hiking part of your New Year’s wellness plan? Get the all-new 2025 Hiking Calendar courtesy of Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST).

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  2. Two hikers at Bear Creek Redwoods Regional Preserve on a new trail.

    New Trails at Bear Creek

    Looking for new trails? Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve has added 170 acres of forest, grassland, and historical sites. Hike this 3.5-mile loop through the new addition.

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  3. Woman swimming in Carson Hotsprings natural thermal pool

    Hot Springs, Naturally

    Thermal spring waters are famous for their curative, relaxing elements, and Reno Tahoe is filled with them! Sink into these amazing thermal respites for a wellness super soak.

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  4. Drake Awakening

    Part salt water, part fresh water, Drake’s Estero is smack in the middle of Point Reyes, and one of only two marine wilderness areas in the entire nation. Yeah, it’s worth a look. Get the extended version by hiking right alongside it.

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Trending Stories SoCal

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  1. Weekend Sherpa Podcast
    Sponsored

    Weekend Sherpa Podcast: Take it Outside

    Adventure for your earbuds. What's new in the world of the outdoors? Listen to Weekend Sherpa co-founders discuss local hikes, beaches, bike rides, camping spots and all kinds of travel and adventure in California and beyond!

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  2. Boardwalking Bliss

    The Stanfield Preserve Boardwalk Trail traverses 1.6 miles of beautiful Big Bear Lake, giving you a chance to get up close to the lake without needing a boat. You’ll also enjoy some peaceful wildlife watching.

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  3. Get Into The Grove

    The 1.8-mile Oak Grove Park Loop trail in La Cañada is short, easy, and close to the city; meaning it’s a perfect destination for a quick holiday hike.

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  4. Woman hiking down the stairs to Coast Royale Beach in Orange County

    Secluded Royale

    Panoramic coastal views and a killer leg workout combine on this 2.7-mile (round-trip) out-and-back hike to secluded Coast Royale Beach in Orange County

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