Judy Le Marr on our GuideMeHome2MarinLuxury blog just posted about Muir Woods in Marin County. Personally, I love Muir Woods. However there is a gem in Sonoma County, a cousin, if you will, to Muir Woods: Armstrong Woods – also known as Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve. Armstrong is great on a hot summer day, as the Redwoods offer shade and relief from the heat. Though this past Sunday was quite drizzly, it was still amazingly pleasant.

There is something magical and awe inspiring about Redwoods. Standing beneath so many huge Redwoods always makes me remember that they are on the planet for such a long time, that it took years for them to grow, and that we need to be really grateful and seize each moment in life. With the oldest tree in the park an estimated 1400 years old (that’s Colonel Armstrong), my few years seem quite short.

The tallest tree is Parson Jones, of which I have attached a shot. Parson Jones is 310 feet in height and just a short .1 mile walk from the entrance. To look up and see the top of Parson Jones is quite amazing.

One of the best things about Armstrong Woods is the numerous trails it offers. You can walk the manicured trails for up to 1.7 miles (to the picnic area and back). There are also more strenuous and less formal hikes on many trails with a variety of levels of exercise involved. In addition to the hiking and picnicking, there are places to walk your dog and ride your horse. There are even nearby camp grounds (not affiliated with the park).

To get to Armstrong Woods from Highway 101, you take  River Road to Guerneville and turn right at Rio Nido Road. I think it’s an added bonus to go play in Guerneville – there are some great restaurants and shops if one is up for playing the tourist.

Where is your favorite place to enjoy our North Bay Redwoods?


Posted by:Jennifer Masterson