Where to See Fall Colors in Sonoma County
Gorgeous fall colors spread like tapestry across Sonoma County from early September through late November, with Mother Nature weaving spectacular autumnal artworks. Vineyard foliage turns from green to gold to red, deciduous oak forests morph to yellow and deep orange, and meadows of yarrow, barberry, Russian sage, plumbago, and other indigenous plants reach their height of vibrant hue.
Grapes are at the peak of ripeness, as are pumpkins, apples, chestnuts, potatoes, plums, persimmons, melons, blackberries, rainbow chard, and dozens of kinds of squash. And where else can you enjoy such autumnal eye candy strolling through a sunny vineyard or along a mountain trail with a glass of wine in your hand?
Sip at Benziger Family WineryÂ
Set next to Jack London State Historic Park in the quaint village of Glen Ellen, this is one of Sonoma Valley's most stunning, indigenously planted destinations. Known for its biodynamic farming, the winery nestles in series of valleys and hillsides, bringing splendid views of vineyards and lush hillside foliage. It's easy to explore, as a 45-minute tram tour takes you all across the property, up and down and around, and includes a wine tasting at the end.
Boat and Bike at Spring Lake Regional Park
This 350-acre county park in Santa Rosa offers extraordinary leaf-peeping, with the shimmering red-yellow foliage of Big Leaf maples lining the creeks next to amber-leaf oaks spreading like a velvet drape along the hillsides. Crunch your bike through fallen leaves along the trails, warmed by the sun dappling through the branches. For boating on the 72-acre lake, the tree-lined shore reflects in the water, dancing and glittering in golden green.
Bring your own boat and use the year-round boat ramp (Newanga Avenue entrance). Or, kayak, paddleboat, and canoe rentals are available near the swimming lagoon (Violetti Road entrance) daily from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Don't forget your furry friend, either – leashed pups are always welcome, and the lake hosts Water Bark dog swim parties on weekends in September.
Hike the North Sonoma Mountain Regional Park & Open Space Preserve
The 820-acre park and preserve offers sweeping views of the county, unveiling autumn vineyards and trees ablaze in color as far as the eye can see. Take the 3.7-mile section of the Sonoma Mountain Bay Area Ridge Trail, beginning in the ferns and redwoods on the south fork of Matanzas Creek, then winding through dense groves of oaks and bay laurels.
Find more things to do in Sonoma County, and check our Guide to Hiking in Sonoma County.
Written by Sonoma Insider Carey Sweet.
