Discover the hidden outdoor treasures of Sonoma, California, where stunning landscapes and rich history converge to create a unique tapestry of adventure.
Sonoma's outdoor wonders await, promising unforgettable experiences that go far beyond its world-renowned vineyards. Before heading out to Wander Calistoga Valley, read on to check out the top outdoor activities and parks in the area!
Pepperwood Preserve
Photo courtesy of Pepperwood Preserve
Distance from Wander Calistoga Valley: 2.7 miles
Location: 2130 Pepperwood Preserve Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95404
Hours: 9AM-5PM Monday-Friday (or by appointment)
Phone: (707) 591-9310
Website: https://www.pepperwoodpreserve.org/
The Preserve is under private ownership and allows visitors access exclusively through prearranged public events or by appointment. Pepperwood's 3,200-acre reserve acts as a sanctuary for more than 900 plant and animal species while also pioneering ecosystem-climate research.
You can explore their offerings, including guided geological excursions, jam-making workshops, art exhibitions, full moon hikes, camping, astronomy presentations, and various other activities, by checking their online schedule.
Private group outings can be arranged on specific days upon request, typically between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. These personalized three-hour guided tours can be tailored to your preferences and level of physical activity and are priced at around $375.
Tip: Due to ecological preservation measures, pets are not allowed on the property.
The Petrified Forest
Photo courtesy of The Petrified Forest Organization
Distance from Wander Calistoga Valley: 7.1 miles
Location: 4100 Petrified Forest Rd, Calistoga, CA 94515
Hours: 9AM-5PM daily
Phone: (707) 942-6667
Website: https://www.petrifiedforest.org/
Discover a park featuring meandering trails that wind through massive redwood trees, which were turned to stone by a volcanic eruption around 3 million years ago. Experience the magnificent spectacle of these ancient petrified redwood trees, dating back to the Pliocene Epoch, 3.4 million years ago, through self-guided tours available daily.
The Petrified Forest boasts a stunning collection of these fossilized giants, unearthed after resting beneath layers of volcanic ash for countless millennia. Plan for a 45-minute to one-hour journey along the trails, bearing in mind that the gates close promptly at 5 pm.
Tip: These trails are composed of compacted sediment and are not paved, featuring some roots and uneven terrain owing to the surrounding living forest. Dogs are welcome but must remain on a leash at all times.
Jack London State Historic Park
Photo courtesy of Jack London State Historic Park
Distance from Wander Calistoga Valley: 27 miles
Location: 2400 London Ranch Rd, Glen Ellen, CA 95442
Hours: 9AM-5PM daily
Phone: (707) 938-5216
Website: https://jacklondonpark.com/
Explore the expansive Jack London State Historic Park, a tribute to the renowned author, encompassing his gravesite, a museum, historic structures, and scenic trails. It's the cherished home and ranch of the multifaceted Jack London, celebrated not only for his literary achievements but also for his adventurous escapades and global journeys.
Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of activities such as walking, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, birdwatching, photography, painting, picnicking, relaxation, and nature appreciation.
With over 29 miles of backcountry trails, you can traverse through a variety of landscapes, including mixed forests, redwood groves, oak woodlands, and meadows, with elevations ranging from 600 to 2,300 feet.
Tip: Free 1-hour docent tours are available on the weekends, check the website for more information
Robert Louis Stevenson State Park
Photo courtesy of Robert Louis Stevenson State Park
Distance from Wander Calistoga Valley: 17 miles
Location: 4824 Lake County Hwy #4774, Calistoga, CA 94515
Hours: 7AM-8PM daily
Phone: (707) 942-4575
This park offers challenging terrain with rugged forests and canyons, including a five-mile hike to Mount St. Helena's summit, providing panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay Area and, on clear days, even distant Mount Shasta.
Distinguished from the typical northern California Coast Ranges, the Mayacama Mountains here have a volcanic origin, with Mount St. Helena and the Palisades formed from rocks known as the Sonoma Volcanics, which erupted between 2.6 and 8 million years ago in the Napa-Sonoma region.
Tip: Dogs are prohibited in this park to safeguard its wildlife and preserve its natural resources.
Need more activity suggestions? Reach out to Wander's Concierge Team anytime via text at 737-377-3205. They're available 24/7 and can help you plan the best trip ever!
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