Lake Loop

Biking around Spring Lake in Santa Rosa

05.04.2017
Bike Ride Spring Lake Santa Rosa

The template for a perfect multipurpose park? Hundreds of acres of open space, wending hiking and biking trails, glistening lakes, and picnic spots galore. Spring Lake and Howarth Park in Santa Rosa certainly fit this bill. The two parks border each other and make up more than 500 acres of beautiful open space, encircled by trails, dotted in picnic spots, and featuring two shimmering lakes. Get the big picture on an easygoing 4-mile bike ride.

Two wheels is the best way to explore here: A paved bike path goes all around Spring Lake, with a detour to Lake Ralphine in Howarth Park. Start from the main parking area at Spring Lake and go counterclockwise, with a short climb early on up to the ridge of the main dam, and gorgeous views of the lake and surrounding Sonoma County hills, currently electric green!

Wildflowers are also still putting on a show. Within 2 miles you’ll arrive at Lake Ralphine. Take a break, and a picnic! This is a great place to chill out and watch the kayaks and paddleboats glide across the lake. Also paddling in the water: ducks and ducklings. The ride is halfway done already; all that’s left is a short climb back up and then down to Spring Lake and more easy cruising back to the start. Ready set, spring roll!

BEER BONUS: Keep the good times rolling at Kenwood’s Palooza gastropub & wine bar (8910 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood)—a friendly family-owned spot right off of Highway 12, with a sleek modern indoor-outdoor design and a relaxing patio. The craft beer selection is wide-ranging, from the Little Sumpin’ Sumpin’ IPA by Lagunitas Brewing to the Dead Guy German maibock by Rogue Brewing Co. Pair drinks with tasty food options including sweet corn risotto, pork belly mac & cheese, strawberry spinach salad, and fancy cheese plates.

Start from Spring Lake Regional Park's main parking area ($7 fee), off Violetti Rd. in Santa Rosa.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Muir Woods Night Tour

    Thousands of people flock to Muir Woods every year, yet only a few see it at night, when this beloved park is experienced in a whole new light. The Muir Woods Night Tour happens on the last Friday of every month through October.

    View
  2. Slide Ranch Marin

    Slide On Over

    Marin's Slide Ranch has a popular neighbor in the Muir Beach Overlook. But don’t overlook Slide! This open-to-the-public nonprofit organization sits on 134 acres of coastline and is filled with animals, Pacific scenery, and an adjacent hiking trail.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

    View

  4. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Waterfall Hunter

    If you ask a local in Reno about one of the best hiking trails in town, odds are high they’ll point you to Hunter Creek Falls. It’s a year-round favorite, but it absolutely shines in spring, when desert peach wildflowers make a splash—and so does the marquee waterfall.

    View

  2. Wapama Wows

    Hetch Hetchy can be overlooked in Yosemite National Park because of its more remote location and limited facilities. But this is where you’ll also find one of the best day hikes in the park: Wapama Falls.

    View
  3. Bike the Coastal Trail to Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay

    Ride and Seek

    Oceanside breezes, beautiful beaches, a car-free pathway for biking, and beer at the end: You’re on a roll! The San Mateo Coast was made for beach hopping and beer tasting … and it all goes down smooth as part of an 8-mile out-and-back bike ride.

    View

  4. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

    View