Wildflowers and Wonderful Views

Sonoma Valley Spring Wildflowers and Views

Cheese and chocolate go great with wine, but right now Sonoma Valley has something even better for your pairings: wildflowers! On top of its award-winning wines, Sonoma Valley’s 13,000 acres of state and regional parks are exploding with poppies, buttercups, irises, red larkspurs, and blue-eyed grass.

Jack London State Park—in the heart of the valley—is home to its namesake adventure writer’s ranch and miles of hiking trails that go through redwood trees and up to fantastic valley vistas of vineyards rolling all the way to San Pablo Bay … with wildflowers adding a rainbow of color to the mountainsides.

Sonoma’s charming historic plaza is a must-visit, and right behind it is a favorite local hike: The Overlook Trail is 1 mile (one-way) through California poppies and up to a sweeping view of Sonoma Valley, Mount Tam, and San Francisco.

Afterwards, celebrate Sonoma Valley’s most colorful season by strolling the tasting rooms, boutique stores, and dining spots around the Plaza.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Purely Purisima

    Take a relaxing hike on the lower section of Purisiima Creek Trail in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve.

    View
  2. 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
  3. 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
  4. 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

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Been There, Dome That

    Surrounded by granite domes, craggy peaks, and miles of hiking trails, the High Sierra landscape of Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National Park is famous for good reason. For a truly grand view, take a short hike to bold—and bald (except for snow at times)—Lembert Dome.

    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. 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
  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