Despite the lack of vast National Forests or Parks in the vicinity, Santa Rosa offers many diverse hiking opportunities. Coastal paths, mountain peaks, and historical trails are just some of the natural attractions in the area.
This list of the highest-rated trails near Santa Rosa will make your life easier as we compiled all the best hikes on one page, many of which are fantastic trail running destinations, too.
Trails near Santa Rosa:
- Mount Saint Helena Trail
- Pomo Canyon Campground from Shell Beach
- Bodega Head Trail
- Skyline Trail to Lake Marie
- Taylor Mountain
- Sea to Sky and Raptor Ridge Loop
- Westwood Hills Trail
- Moore Creek Trail
- Kortum Trail
- Islands in the Sky Vista Loop
- Spring Lake Loop
- Foothill Regional Park Loop
- Oat Hill Mine Trail
- Ritchey Canyon Trail to Coyote Peak Loop
- Hood Mountain via Panorama Ranch Trail
- Jack London State Historic Park
- North Sonoma Mountain Trail
- Creekside and Big Leaf Trails
- Table Rock Trail
1. Mount Saint Helena Trail
- Highlight: A highly-rated hike to the 4,328-foot peak with a gentle climb and sweeping views all along.
- Type: Out and Back
- Trail Length: 9.3 miles
- Elevation Gain: 2,099 feet
- Time to Complete: 4h 30 min
- Difficulty: Hard
- Parking: At the Trailhead, Route 29: Google Maps
- Distance from Santa Rosa: 24 miles (40 min)
- Dog Friendly: No
Mount Saint Helena Trail is a 9.3 mile out and back trail near Calistoga, perfect for hiking, running, and mountain biking.
It’s a strenuous hike, with 2,099ft of elevation, rocky areas, and little shade, increasing the difficulty level.
Reaching this California Wine County peak is exceptional, with views from Mount Saint Helena summit being some of the best in the area.
The wide dirt road with rugged surface and steep sections (formerly used for logging) leads you to the summit.
Still, the sweeping views are worth it, and it’s a fair tradeoff. Be careful of wildlife trails, though, as some are large enough to trick you off the marked path!
2. Pomo Canyon Campground from Shell Beach
- Highlight: A hilly hike with killer ocean views and Russian River vistas; charming redwood groves; partly shaded.
- Type: Lollipop
- Trail Length: 6.5 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,594 feet
- Time to Complete: 3h
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Parking: Kortum Trail Parking Lot: Google Maps
- Distance from Santa Rosa: 30 miles (45 min)
- Dog Friendly: No
Pomo Canyon Campground hike is a 6.5-mile loop trail near Jenner. It’s popular for hiking, camping, and running.
It’s a moderate hike with 1,594ft of elevation and should take around 3 hours to complete, even for less experienced hikers.
There are beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, Jenner By The Sea, and the Russian River. The ocean views towards the end of the hike are exceptional.
Be warned that the top of the hill gets very windy, and this can feel a little scary for some people as they enjoy the views.
The best thing about this hike is the variation. You see everything from ocean views to forests and even glimpses of the desert!
3. Bodega Head Trail
- Highlight: Easy, family-friendly hike with extraordinary coastal views; best to visit during sunset.
- Type: Loop
- Trail Length: 1.7 miles
- Elevation Gain: 187 feet
- Time to Complete: 45 min
- Difficulty: Easy
- Parking: Bodega Bay Trailhead: Google Maps
- Distance from Santa Rosa: 28 miles (40 min)
- Dog Friendly: No
Bodega Head Trail is a 1.7-mile loop trail near Bodega Bay. It’s famous for nature trips, walking, and hiking.
It’s an easy hike for all skill levels, only raising 187ft in total. It is undoubtedly a family-friendly hike, although no dogs are allowed.
The trail is all about the views. It follows the coastline, offering beautiful vistas over the water, plenty of beaches, and even opportunities to see Bodega Harbor.
Because it’s such an easy route, some hikers won’t waste their time with it, but the views alone make the journey to Bodega Bay worth it.
Bring binoculars, too, so you can sit back and watch the deer, sea lions, and birds the area is famous for! It’s well developed and beautifully maintained, too!
4. Skyline Trail to Lake Marie
- Highlight: Stunning route through the wilderness park to the charming lake; well-kept, quiet, and great for trail running.
- Type: Loop
- Trail Length: 6.4 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,292 feet
- Time to Complete: 3h
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Parking: Skyline Wilderness Park: Google Maps
- Distance from Santa Rosa: 43 miles (55 min)
- Dog Friendly: No
Skyline Trail to Lake Marie is a 6.4-mile loop trail near Napa, great for horse riding, trail running, and hiking.
It’s moderate in difficulty, with 1,292ft elevation, but it can easily take you half a day to complete as you take in the various views.
The start of the hike is most challenging, after which the immediate elevation rewards you with stunning views, and the gorgeous Lake Marie is worth the trip alone.
Skyline Trail is just one way to Lake Marie, so bring a GPS or offline map to monitor the route you’re taking so you get back to where you started.
The trail is rocky and loose in places, so bring proper footwear, water, and snacks as you explore this stunning area for half a day!
5. Taylor Mountain
- Highlight: Well-kept area with many trails to the 1,404-foot Taylor Mountain; great workout with fantastic views.
- Type: Loop
- Trail Length: 5.1 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,322 feet
- Time to Complete: 2h 30 min
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Parking: Petalumahill Road: Google Maps
- Distance from Santa Rosa: 3 miles (8 min)
- Dog Friendly: Yes
Taylor Mountain is a 5.1-mile loop trail. It’s one of the best hiking trails near Santa Rosa, perfect for hikers and dog walkers.
The difficulty here is moderate because of the 1,322ft of elevation and the rocky trail that can be challenging for less experienced hikers.
The views from the top of Taylor Mountain are impressive and panoramic but don’t just wait for the peak to enjoy this hike, as wildflowers and wildlife are all around you.
It is a rocky and often muddy trail that becomes slippery after rain, so be sure to pack the proper footwear for this terrain.
It can be a little confusing to follow this route, too, so an offline map to support navigation is a great idea.
6. Sea to Sky and Raptor Ridge Loop
- Highlight: A stunning hike to the Hawk Hill with killer views of the ocean if it’s not foggy; hilly but not too bad.
- Type: Loop
- Trail Length: 4.5 miles
- Elevation Gain: 941 feet
- Time to Complete: 2h
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Parking: Jenner Headlands Preserve: Google Maps
- Distance from Santa Rosa: 35 miles (50 min)
- Dog Friendly: Yes
Sea to Sky and Raptor Ridge Loop is a 4.5-mile trail near Jenner, primarily used for running and hiking.
It’s another moderately difficult hike, despite only elevating 951ft. This is primarily because of the lack of shade and the very steep start!
On a clear day, the coastline views are second to none and one of the route’s biggest highlights.
However, the thick fog may be a problem for some hikers who come for the coastal vistas, as it is pretty common.
Thankfully, the trail itself is well-maintained, easy to follow, and full of wildlife, so even without the views, it’s great. Be cautious, though, as bobcats have been spotted on this trail.
7. Westwood Hills Trail
- Highlight: Short but hilly hike near Napa; lots of shade and beautiful vistas; excellent evening workout.
- Type: Loop
- Trail Length: 2.2 miles
- Elevation Gain: 501 feet
- Time to Complete: 1h
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Parking: Westwood Hills Parking Lot: Google Maps
- Distance from Santa Rosa: 40 miles (55 min)
- Dog Friendly: Yes
Westwood Hills Trail is a 2.2-mile loop trail near Napa. It’s a popular hike reserved for walkers, hikers, and runners.
It is, however, moderately difficult, elevating 501ft in a very short distance, which can really test those leg muscles.
There are gorgeous views of the surrounding area, and the trail feels like a genuine explorative adventure when following it.
However, this is mainly because it is overgrown and rugged in parts, making it hard to follow. This can be concerning for some hikers.
Bringing a map is a good idea for this trip, but doing so will reward you with stunning views for just a little extra effort!
8. Moore Creek Trail
- Highlight: Highly-rated trail through the canyon to the Moore Creek pools; plenty of shade and not too busy.
- Type: Reverse Lollipop
- Trail Length: 7.1 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,151 feet
- Time to Complete: 3h 30 min
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Parking: Moore Creek Park: Google Maps
- Distance from Santa Rosa: 35 miles (55 min)
- Dog Friendly: Yes
Moore Creek Trail is a 7.1-mile reverse lollipop hike near St. Helena. It’s primarily used for hiking, although runners and dog walkers are welcome too.
It’s a moderate trail because of its 1,151ft of elevation over quite challenging ascents and descents.
The best part about this trail is the adventure of exploring Moore Creek’s secluded canyon. You also have stunning views before descending to the creek.
During high water, the creek crossings are dangerous, so it’s best to stick to the loop of the canyon wall above to be safe.
Whichever version of the Moore Creek Trail loop you do, it’ll be challenging but gratifying! Just keep an eye out for signs, as it’s easy to get lost here without paying attention.
9. Kortum Trail
- Highlight: Easy trail along the Sonoma coastline with access to beaches and stunning views; must do.
- Type: Out and Back
- Trail Length: 8.9 miles
- Elevation Gain: 931 feet
- Time to Complete: 4h
- Difficulty: Easy
- Parking: Kortum Trail Parking Lot: Google Maps
- Distance from Santa Rosa: 30 miles (45 min)
- Dog Friendly: No
Kortum Trail is an 8.9 mile out and back trail near Occidental. Nature trips, bird watchers, runners, hikers, and beachgoers can all be found here!
This trail is easy and suitable for all skill levels, including kids, despite the gradual 931ft of elevation gain.
Views of the Sonoma coastline are amazing, and immersing yourself in the wetland is a fun adventure for all the family – even experienced hikers too!
On windy days, the surf from the nearby beaches can blow up towards people on the trail, making it a little uncomfortable when being sprayed.
It’s a well-maintained double-planked boardwalk with stunning coastal views and access to a few beaches. There’s nothing more to say!
10. Islands in the Sky Vista Loop
- Highlight: Beautifull hike to the ridge; partly shaded with some steep inclines; has ocean views on a clear day.
- Type: Loop
- Trail Length: 4.7 miles
- Elevation Gain: 928 feet
- Time to Complete: 2h
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Parking: Freezeout Road, on the verge: Google Maps
- Distance from Santa Rosa: 30 miles (45 min)
- Dog Friendly: No
Islands in the Sky Vista Loop is a 4.7-mile loop trail near Duncans Mills. It’s primarily used for hiking and walking, with occasional nature trips.
It’s a moderate hike with 928ft elevation gain, little shade, and steep gradient whichever direction of the loop you take.
Reaching the peak of the loop allows hikers to look out on the valley below covered by clouds, hence the name Islands in the Sky Vista Loop.
To reach these ‘islands in the sky,’ there are only two options: a slippery dirt path or a steep gravel path – both of which require sensible footwear.
The trail is easy to follow, though, and the loop is straightforward to navigate with the proper preparation and experience level.
11. Spring Lake Loop
- Highlight: Short, flat, and easy loop around the lake; well-developed and family-friendly area with many more trails; great for running.
- Type: Loop
- Trail Length: 2.1 miles
- Elevation Gain: 29 feet
- Time to Complete: 1h
- Difficulty: Easy
- Parking: Boat Launch Parking Lot: Google Maps
- Distance from Santa Rosa: 5 miles (20 min)
- Dog Friendly: Yes
Spring Lake Loop is a popular trail near Santa Rosa. At just 2.1 miles long, it is excellent for families, hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders.
It’s an easy hike for all skill levels, with just 29ft of elevation. The route is partially paved too, with a swimming beach, so it’s perfect for kids!
Lovely scenery can be seen everywhere on this loop, and Spring Lake is beautiful to look at as you try to spot wildlife on the walk.
It can become jam-packed at times because of the ease of the hike, so keen hikers may wish to avoid the crowds and choose another destination.
The paved path is well-maintained, and the well-developed area makes a brilliant spot for picnics and relaxing while taking in the sights.
12. Foothill Regional Park Loop
- Highlight: Charming, hilly walk with a few ponds, vineyard, and beautiful views; lots of trail options; partly shaded.
- Type: Loop
- Trail Length: 2.8 miles
- Elevation Gain: 482 feet
- Time to Complete: 1h 30min
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Parking: Arata Lane Parking Lot: Google Maps
- Distance from Santa Rosa: 12 miles (20 min)
- Dog Friendly: Yes
Foothill Regional Park Loop is a 2.8-mile trail by Windsor. Mountain biking, nature trips, birdwatching, and hiking are all popular activities here.
It’s rated as being moderately difficult over the 482ft of elevation, and the ravine trail portion of the hike is slippery in parts.
Offering beautiful views of Sonoma County, with lake and forest vistas streaming with wildlife, it really is a stunning hike.
There isn’t much shade on the hike, so bring water and apply sunblock before heading out to avoid sunburn.
The trail itself is well-maintained, and the side brush is cut back regularly to allow for easy passing on the path.
13. Oat Hill Mine Trail
- Highlight: Fantastic trail with a gentle incline; has killer views and Palisades rock formations but little shade.
- Type: Out and Back
- Trail Length: 14.1 miles
- Elevation Gain: 2,417 feet
- Time to Complete: 7h
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Parking: Small Lot off Lincoln Ave: Google Maps
- Distance from Santa Rosa: 18 miles (35 min)
- Dog Friendly: Yes
Oat Hill Mine Trail is a 14.1 mile out and back trail near Calistoga. It’s a brilliant spot for birdwatching, running, and hiking.
It’s a moderate hike again, with 2,417ft elevation and rocky sections with loose gravel underfoot.
This area is known for its wildflowers and stunning views, and fun forest exploration opportunities.
Ticks are common here, so bring protection to prevent bites that can ruin your hike quickly.
Avoid sun exposure, stick to the main trail, and this hike will be achievable for most keen hikers.
14. Ritchey Canyon Trail to Coyote Peak Loop
- Highlight: Beautiful trail through the shaded woodland, rich in flora and fauna.
- Type: Lollipop
- Trail Length: 5 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,017 feet
- Time to Complete: 2h 30min
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Parking: Visitor Center Lot: Google Maps
- Distance from Santa Rosa: 20 miles (40 min)
- Dog Friendly: No
Ritchey Canyon Trail to Coyote Peak is a 5-mile lollipop trail near Calistoga. Horseback riding, mountain biking, nature trips, and hiking are suitable for this trail.
It’s moderately difficult at 1,017ft of elevation, although some hikers have successfully completed this with active children, so it shouldn’t be too strenuous.
This beautiful location is filled with natural fauna and flora – a glorious reminder of what it used to be like before the establishment of the famous wineries.
The trail markings along the route need improvement, so an offline map is definitely something to pack for this trail.
However, the path itself is well-maintained, and arriving at Coyote Peak is exceptional thanks to the stunning views of the valleys below!
15. Hood Mountain via Panorama Ranch Trail
- Highlight: Tough climb to the 2,733-foot peak but partly shaded, and the views don’t disappoint.
- Type: Out and Back/Loop
- Trail Length: 6 miles
- Elevation Gain: 2,047 feet
- Time to Complete: 3h
- Difficulty: Hard
- Parking: End of Pythian Road: Google Maps
- Distance from Santa Rosa: 10 miles (20 min)
- Dog Friendly: Yes
Hood Mountain via Panorama Ranch Trail is a 6-mile hike and one of the best trails near Santa Rosa.
However, it’s a difficult one, best left to those with plenty of experience hiking more challenging trails, with 2,047ft of elevation and rocky sections to be aware of.
This trail is truly immersive, with grassy, open areas and sheltered forest groves, before reaching Hood Mountain summit, which offers breathtaking views.
The path could do with fresh markers to aid navigation. However, it’s possible to complete without a map, although one would certainly help!
It’s a beautiful trail with stunning views, and the shaded path to the summit is welcome, considering the steep incline that’ll challenge even experienced hikers!
16. Jack London State Historic Park
- Highlight: A fantastic, historically significant park with plenty of trails, lots of shade, ancient redwoods; great for running.
- Type: Loops
- Trail Length: Varies
- Elevation Gain: Varies
- Time to Complete: Varies
- Difficulty: Moderate Terrain
- Parking: Near Wolf House: Google Maps
- Distance from Santa Rosa: 15 miles (30 min)
- Dog Friendly: No
Jack London State Historic Park is a popular landmark in the area famous for the author’s vineyard, historical buildings, his gravesite, and a sprawling network of trails.
Jack London pioneered sustainable farming in the area over 100 years ago, and the state park has been set up in his honor, offering hikers the chance to explore the area.
There are many trails in the park, ranging in difficulty, but the major draw here is the park’s historical significance.
Filled with stunning views of the historic Jack London Vineyard and neat trails for mountain biking, walking, and hiking, the park is a must-visit destination!
17. North Sonoma Mountain Trail
- Highlight: Hilly and mostly shaded hike with vineyards along the way; great views and plenty of wildlife.
- Type: Out and Back
- Trail Length: 6.2 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,263 feet
- Time to Complete: 3h
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
- Distance from Santa Rosa: 10 miles (25 min)
- Dog Friendly: No
North Sonoma Mountain Trail is a 6.2 mile out and back trail near Glen Ellen, used primarily for hiking.
It’s rated as moderate because of the 1,236ft elevation and some steeper parts. Still, keen hikers shouldn’t find this to be too much of a challenge.
The views from the Sonoma Mountain slope are amazing, and the shaded mountainside makes the walk rather pleasant.
The nice thing about this hike is that it connects to the network of trails in Jack London Park, so you can easily extend your adventure and visit that historic landmark.
The trail is well-maintained and offers magnificent views, and is easy to navigate with some hiking experience.
18. Creekside and Big Leaf Trails
- Highlight: Highly-rated and hilly loop in Shiloh Ranch Regional Park; very few people and stunning views of Sonoma Valley; great for running.
- Type: Loop
- Trail Length: 3.8 miles
- Elevation Gain: 616 feet
- Time to Complete: 2h
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Parking: Trailhead Lot: Google Maps
- Distance from Santa Rosa: 9 miles (15 min)
- Dog Friendly: No
Creekside and Big Leaf Trails make a 3.8-mile loop that is one of the quietest hiking trails near Santa Rosa.
It’s a moderate route because of steeper inclines over the 616ft of elevation across a rocky trail that can be difficult to navigate at times.
This canyon loop trail is winding, fun to explore, and quiet, so hikers that enjoy connecting with nature without distractions will love this!
It can become rugged in parts, which is difficult for passing others on the trail, and the rock underfoot can be dangerous without proper footwear.
The trail is dusty in places too, but easy to follow despite a lack of traffic, which is a positive for little-known routes like this one.
19. Table Rock Trail
- Highlight: Tough but short trail with steep uphills; has amazing views of Napa Valley and unusual geological formations.
- Type: Out and Back
- Trail Length: 4.4 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,312 feet
- Time to Complete: 2h 30min
- Difficulty: Hard
- Parking: At the Trailhead, Route 29: Google Maps
- Distance from Santa Rosa: 24 miles (40 min)
- Dog Friendly: No
Table Rock Trail is a 4.4 mile out and back trail near Calistoga, primarily used for hiking.
The 1,312ft elevation, coupled with steep areas necessitating scrambling, makes this a tough trail that’ll challenge even experienced hikers.
Table Rock Overlook is the highlight of this trail, offering gorgeous vistas. Wildflowers and wildlife make for an exciting journey, too.
This trail is undeveloped, though, so difficult to follow without an offline map and navigation experience.
A trail like this is rewarding but challenging and is best left to more seasoned hikers and adventurers!
Final Thoughts
Santa Rosa is a fantastic gateway to some of the most unique trails in central California. There are routes here to suit different activities, skill levels, and seasons.
Whether you are a runner, a hiker, or a family with kids, keep this list in mind when searching for adventures near Santa Rosa.
Alternatively, check out Mendocino National Forest Guide for more hiking and backpacking opportunities.
And for hiking motivation, try Funny and Inspirational Hiking Quotes.
More Trails in California:
- Lake Chabot
- Fremont
- San Francisco
- Alameda
- Santa Ynez
- Vista
- Pismo Beach
- Big Sur Coast
- Bakersfield
- Escondido
- Fresno
- Moreno Valley
Lakes in California:
Beaches in California:
