Best Time to Go to the Russian River

Summer has its appeal when it’s hot enough to enjoy a day of water play. However, the weather is optimal in spring and fall, providing a less crowded experience for visitors.

Things to Do at the Russian River

If you’ve only got a day, you can’t go wrong with a walk in Armstrong Redwoods State Park, located just north of Guerneville. This park is less crowded than Muir Woods but equally stunning, featuring a forest of 300-foot-tall coastal redwoods. You’ll find hiking trails suitable for visitors of all abilities. For a unique experience, you can opt for a guided horseback trail ride.

Go for a Rambling Drive: Follow CA Highway 116 through the redwood forest and along the Russian River toward the ocean. You can head north on CA Highway 1 through Bodega Bay and back inland. There are numerous small side roads that offer diverse routes, but don’t miss Graton, known for its charming art gallery, antique shops, and great dining options like Underwood’s and the Willow Wood Market. Freestone also has delightful spots, such as Wild Flour Bread, a renowned bakery.

Water Play on the Russian River: Activities like kayaking, canoeing, and swimming are particularly popular during the summer months. You can either bring your own canoe or kayak or rent one from local providers. For guided tours, consider contacting Burke’s Canoe Trips or King’s Sport.

Go Wine Tasting: Russian River wineries are generally less pretentious compared to those further inland. The wine appellation encompasses a large area, making it easy to explore. However, if you plan to indulge in a wine-tasting experience, consider setting aside a different day for a trip to Healdsburg. For a good map of the Russian River Wine Road, check with local businesses or visit their website. We recommend visiting Korbel for their scenic tours and beautiful gardens; find more details on their website.

Bicycling: Utilize the Sonoma County Bike Trails to map out your cycling adventure, or consult a local bike shop for the best route advice.

Charles Schulz Museum: Located in Santa Rosa, this museum honors the beloved cartoonist Charles Schulz. It is an ideal stop on your way to or from Guerneville, particularly for fans of the Peanuts comic strip. For more information, learn more about the museum here.

Annual Events You Should Know About

• Russian River Rodeo: June in Duncan Mills
• Sonoma County Pride: June in Guerneville
• Civil War Days: July in Duncan Mills
• Russian River Jazz & Blues Festival: September

Where to Stay

Guerneville is the most central location to stay if you wish to fully enjoy the Russian River area. It offers various accommodation options suitable for different preferences and budgets.

For comprehensive hotel reviews and price comparisons for Guerneville, consult Tripadvisor.

Where Is the Russian River?

The Russian River flows west through Sonoma County, ultimately reaching the Pacific Ocean. This guide focuses on the region centered around the town of Guerneville, known for its picturesque views and outdoor activities.