Six Picks for Sonoma

Six Outdoor Spring Adventures in Sonoma Valley

05.09.2019

1) Explore New (dog-friendly) Hiking Trails

Bow-WOW! Only a mile from Sonoma’s Plaza, beautiful Bartholomew Park has reopened with a new backcountry trail system behind its (news!) namesake vineyard estate. Visit the wine tasting room and adjacent museum featuring plein air artwork. Then take your bottle of wine out to the oak-shaded picnic area overlooking the vineyard and valley.

2) Visit the Secret Garden

Tucked between wineries on the eastern slope of Sonoma Valley, Quarryhill Botanical Garden is one of wine country’s secret treasures. Wander the pathways and cross little bridges amid ponds and waterfalls, then enjoy a picnic at one of several hidden spots, including under the Dawn Redwood. Walk up to Himalayan prayer flags on the eastern edge of the park for one of the best views of Sonoma Valley.

3) Take to the Glory Trail!

A locals’ favorite hiking trail has reopened! The 3-mile (round-trip) hike on the wildflower-festooned Overlook Trail is an easy and amazing way to spend an hour or two in Sonoma. The Overlook is within walking distance of Sonoma’s historic plaza, with views over the valley and all the way to Mount Tam and San Francisco.

4) Farmers' Market Is Back

Sonoma Valley’s Tuesday Night Farmers’ Market is a community gathering unlike any other in wine country. The valley’s fabulous farmers are on hand to share their local produce, and food trucks add extra flavor (plus you can bring your own wine!). Check out 7 Golden Rules for the Farmers’ Market!

5) Go Wild at Sugarloaf

If you really want to go wild in Sonoma Valley, get to Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. Hike to the summit of Bald Mountain for a 360-degree panorama of both Sonoma and Napa Valleys. And for an outta this world view, stop in at the park’s Robert Ferguson Observatory, where stargazing events are held throughout the year. Sugarloaf also leads full-moon hikes, and the solar system–inspired Planet Walk is a great option for a trail less traveled, with spectacular valley views all to yourself!

6) What Goes with Ribs?

“Drink what you like” may seem like a great rule for wine and food pairing, but any seasoned Sonoma wine pro will tell you that the right pairing does make a difference in maximizing enjoyment of food and drink. Check out these backyard barbecue wine-pairing basics and cocktail recipes!

Be the first to know about Sonoma Valley’s special offers! Sign up for their newsletter.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Three Cheers

    Good things come in threes when you visit Sonoma. Head out on a short hike right from town, sip and stroll the historic plaza, then take in the magical holiday lights.

    View

  2. Island Tree Topper

    The light display atop Angel Island State Park’s Mount Livermore has long been a cheerful twinkle visible from many cities throughout the Bay Area on holiday season nights. Get into the festive spirit by hiking the 2-mile (one-way) trail from Ayala Cove up to the "Angel Lights."

    View

  3. Go, Tell It on the Mountain

    {NOTE: Due to atmospheric rivers that can come this time of year, always be sure to check ahead for trail closures and hazards. And of course, wait for better weather and drier con

    View

  4. Serene Las Gallinas

    A serene stroll alongside marshland, passing ponds and grasses frilled in seasonal wildflowers, with Mount Tam a beacon in the background … how nice. As part of the esteemed Bay Trail, San Rafael’s Las Gallinas Valley Birding Loop and Wildlife Ponds comprises about 3.5 miles of wide-open trail.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. 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.

    View

  2. Dune It Right

    Want a beach that will really get you away from it all? Monterey's Fort Ord Dunes State Park is just the ticket. And it often glows golden toward sunset.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Redding Lights and Silent Nights

    Give your holiday events calendar a major glow up this winter in California’s sunniest city. Redding is a revelation: Surrounded by iconic scenery like Mount Shasta, Lassen Volcanic National Park, and Whiskeytown National Recreation Area.

    View
  4. Hikers sitting on a large rock slab next to Three Sisters Falls in Cleveland National Forest Southern California near Julian

    Three Sisters

    Good things come in threes at this hike to a lovely trio-tiered waterfall in Cleveland National Forest. The 4.25-mile out-and-back hike rambles among rolling hills, with rocky mountain views as switchbacks take you down to a lush canyon and the falls.

    View