Leapin' Lupine!

Hiking in Sonoma Valley Regional Park

05.04.2017

Seasonal wildflowers and evergreen vistas make this a locals’ favorite hike in Sonoma Valley Regional Park. Go soon to see popping lupine and buttercups on this scenic 2-mile (round-trip) route. And bring some wine and cheese—there’s a lovely picnic table about 0.4 mile in.

Start on the Cougar Trail, where you’ll ascend briefly through oak woodland before leveling off in an area that makes you feel transported to Italy. A gorgeous compound of dream homes sits to your right as you follow the singletrack to tiny Damselfly Pond and the lone picnic table perched at a perfect angle for taking in the setting.

Woman hiking up a trail at Sonoma Valley Regional Park

Continue on Cougar Trail, wending up momentarily before leveling to saunter along a sublime trail flanked by oaks, with peek-a-boo views of the surrounding foothills. When you reach the intersection, turn right to follow Black Canyon Creek Trail.

Woman hiking past a giant oak tree at Sonoma Valley Regional Park

You’ll briefly cross the paved Valley of the Moon Trail before getting onto Buttercup Trail. Aptly named, Buttercup is currently decked in buttercups. This section, an ascent, is a bit steep, but relatively brief. Follow it to turn left on Woodland Star Trail where you'll enjoy more flowers and views, including fields of lupine backed by Sonoma's foothills. Eventually you'll connect to East Sutton Lake Trail , which leads back to the parking lot.

Woman on hiking trail at Sonoma Valley Regional Park

Woman sitting on a bench overlooking rolling hill scenery at Sonoma Valley Regional Park

GUIDED WILDFLOWER WALK BONUS: Enjoy a guided wildflower walk at Sonoma Valley Regional Park on April 2, 2022, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

buttercup wildflowers at Sonoma Valley Regional Park

WINE BONUS: You're in wine country! Post-hike, and not far down the road from the park, Muscardini Cellars is a must-stop for tasting limited-edition Italian varietals (Sangiovese, Barbera, and tasty blends). There's a nice patio out front and a lovely picnic area in the back.

Sonoma Valley Regional Park opens at 8:00 a.m. and closes at sunset. $7 per vehicle for day use. Park in the lot off Hwy. 12, south of Arnold Dr. Bring a map. Dog-friendly! NOTE: Rattlesnakes have recently been seen in this park (including by the Weekend Sherpa team who hiked this trail recently; be aware and keep your dogs leashed while hiking. Warm afternoons tend to bring them out onto trails more).

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. 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

  2. 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

  3. Cheers to Chimney

    If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but it packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring.

    View

  4. Eat, Explore, Repeat: Point Reyes Station

    It’s small and laid-back, but Point Reyes Station is a standout gateway to Point Reyes National Seashore. Fresh food, cool culture, and an unfussy vibe are part of the draw.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. 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

  2. Garland in Bloom

    Carmel Valley is known for its quaint wineries and scenic hiking trails. Enjoy both on this 3.75-mile loop through Garland Ranch Regional Park.

    View

  3. Bright Point of View

    Here's a way to brighten your day: Head to Point Reyes Lighthouse. Originally constructed in 1870 to help warn mariners of the navigational hazard that we now call Point Reyes, the lighthouse was handed over to the National Park Service after serving for 105 years.

    View
  4. A woman stands amid an array of yellow and purple flowers at Descanso Gardens in Los Angeles

    Petal Paradise

    Tulips, lilacs, and daffodils—flower power is in full bloom at Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge. Sprawling across 150 acres surrounded by mountains, the gardens are putting on their best show right now.

    View