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. A man takes a break at a temple spot on a hike at Dragon Mountain in Milptas

    Dragon Quest

    The newly reopened, 4-mile out-and-back hike at Dragon Mountain in Milpitas mixes the physical with the spiritual for a serene hiking experience.

    View

  2. H is for Hawk Hill

    After a nearly year-long closure, Hawk Hill in the legendary Marin Headlands recently emerged with a glow-up. Thank the hearty TLC from the National Park Service. This Golden Gate National Recreation Area gem now has a new trail along with revamped spaces for taking in timeless, grand views.

    View
  3. Mike Zakowski (aka Mike the Baker) standing in front of his wood-fire oven at the Sonoma Valley Farmers' Market

    NEW! Walkin' and Talkin': Break Bread, Go On a Panoramic Hike

    What’s a world-traveling, medal-winning baker’s favorite local hike? Weekend Sherpa co-founder Brad Day caught up with Mike Zakowski (aka Mike the Baker) at Sonoma’s Friday farmers' market, where his wood-fired loaves draw loyal crowds. Between bites of fresh-baked bread, they talk baking, travel, and why Sonoma's Overlook Trail is one of his favorite quick, panoramic hikes.

    View
  4. Sponsored

    Warm Up to Winter in Reno Tahoe

    2026 is just getting started, but there’s one place already rising to the top as the best for adventure and relaxation: Reno Tahoe. The awe—and ahhhs—begin as soon as you arrive. G

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. People on ice learning to curl at Hollywood Curling

    You Go, Curl!

    Hollywood Curling’s Learn to Curl classes make the perfect setting for newcomers. Take the ice, and friendly curling instructors will teach you the basics.

    View

  2. Eat, Sleep, Beach, Repeat

    For an ultra-relaxing getaway where you can sit back and soak in some nature and nurture, head to Mendocino and follow this eat, beach, sleep, repeat itinerary (you won't regret it!) ...

    View

  3. This Skunk Doesn’t Stink!

    All aboard for a ride through history—and through air scented with redwood, dewy ferns, forest-fresh breeze, and a bonus snack and beverage bar, fire pit, and short hike. The World-Famous Skunk Train delivers in every category: scenery, greenery, and towering redwoods.

    View
  4. Hike Cherry Canyon Park

    Cherry on Top

    How do you reach the Ultimate Destination in LA County? Cherry Canyon Park has a 2.5-mile out-and-back hike with a vista point called, well, the Ultimate Destination.

    View