Six Picks for Sonoma

Six Outdoor Spring Adventures in Sonoma Valley

05.09.2019
Sponsored

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. Woman with her arms outstretched to the rolling hills scenery while on a rock outcrop at Barnabe Peak in Samuel P Taylor Sate Park in Marin

    Barnabe Bonanza

    Sure, there are higher mountains in Marin (Mount Tam) and easier ascents (Mount Burdell), but is there a more expansive North Bay view? Barnabe Peak in Samuel P. Taylor State Park offers a glorious panorama including Mount Tam, Mount Diablo, and Mount St. Helena.

    View
  2. Hiker on the SCA trail in Marin Headlands with view of the Golden Gate Bridge

    Headlands Over Heels

    People come from all over the world to get a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge. Get a dramatic and novel view of the bridge without all the people on this moderate 6-mile hike in the Marin Headlands.

    View
  3. Barbary Coast Trail medallion hike in San Francisco

    Medallion Walk SF

    The Barbary Coast Trail is a 3.8-mile historical walk and treasure hunt through San Francisco. Be on the lookout for hubcap-sized bronze medallions placed on the city sidewalks with arrows pointing you in the right direction.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman hiking the San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail to San Onofre State Beach in San Diego County

    Bluffing Good!

    Lovely coastline, beautiful beaches, unique geological history, and picturesque sandstone cliffs with limited foot traffic in San Diego County? Head to San Onofre State Beach and the 5-mile San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail.

    View

  2. Can We Get a Whoop Whoop!

    City, mountain, and ocean views all in one hike? Whoop whoop! It’s no surprise the the Kenter Fire Road and Whoop-de-Doos Trail (a combo of fire road and singletrack) is a favorite among local mountain bikers and hikers alike.

    View

  3. The Big Chill

    In LA, finding a place to chill can be the ultimate flex. So flex, in Franklin Canyon! This unexpected oasis has plenty of shade, cool lake breezes, and ample picnicking spots. Enjoy it on an easy-going 1-mile stroll along its reservoir and duck pond.

    View