Tucked deep into Sonoma County’s cool coastal redwood forests is Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, one of the best places to see redwoods in the greater Bay Area.
This guide highlights everything to know to make the most of your visit to Armstrong Redwoods, including the best time of year to go, things to do, and more.
Jump to:
- Overview: Armstrong Redwoods
- When to Visit Armstrong Redwoods
- Parking and Logistics
- Top Sights and Landmarks
- The Best Hikes in Armstrong Redwoods
- Other Things to Do in Armstrong Redwoods
- Surrounding Area
Overview: Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Redwoods are the tallest trees on earth, growing up to 300 feet tall, and frequently living 500 – 1,000 years. And they’re as rare as they are old. Redwoods are only found in one place on earth: the narrow strip of coastal land stretching from northern California to southern Oregon.
Armstrong Redwoods is one of the best forests within driving distance of the Bay Area. While Muir Woods may be more well-known, thanks to its proximity to downtown San Francisco, Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve is three times bigger, with less crowds.
In Armstrong, a network of gentle footpaths meander deep into the forest, quickly immersing you in the solitude of towering coastal redwoods.
Standing beneath these ancient giants, among the cathedral-like peace and stillness of the surrounding forest, is a near spiritual experience – and one that’s entirely worth the drive.
When to Visit Armstrong Redwoods
The reserve is open year-round, although the best weather is typically found between April – November.
Even in summer, the park’s temperate coastal climate, along with the trees’ thick canopy, ensures that Armstrong is never overly hot.
As a broad generalization, you’ll find the following weather patterns in each season:
- Spring: cool to mild temperatures, spring wildflowers, and less fog
- Summer: comfortable temperatures, often with morning fog burning off by midday
- Fall: temperatures drop in late fall, with morning fog being common
- Winter: decent rainfall, especially during the month of January
Personally, we enjoy visiting in the late fall, when the seasonal nip in the air adds to the atmospheric moodiness of the foggy groves.
Parking and Logistics
Parking and Fees
There is a small parking lot at the visitor center, which charges $10 per vehicle.
The parking lot often fills up by mid-morning on weekends and holidays. You can also park for free along the west-side shoulder of Armstrong Woods Road, leading up to the park – just expect to walk an additional 0.5 miles to the park entrance.
Entrance to the park itself is free.
Other Things to Know
Bring the standard accessories for a day outdoors, including sturdy walking shoes, water, snacks, and a jacket to layer.
Expect cell service to be nonexistent, and note that dogs are not allowed on dirt trails within the park. Dogs must stay on the asphalt roads, and be leashed at all times.
Top Sights and Landmarks
While visiting Armstrong Redwoods, you’ll want to visit the more notable landmarks listed below. All are easily accessible along the most popular 1.2-mile grove loop, and well-marked.
Colonel Armstrong
This is the oldest tree in the park, estimated to be a whopping 1,400 years old (!). Colonel Armstrong is a 0.5 mile walk from the park entrance, near the Redwood Forest Theater (Google Maps link).
Parson Jones Tree
The tallest tree in the park, Parson Jones stands over 300 feet tall.
It’s the first landmark you’ll reach, just beyond the park entrance (Google Maps link).
Icicle Tree
Redwoods often sprout oddly-shaped growths (called “burls”). Appropriately named, this tree’s burls distinctively resemble the winter spike.
The Icicle Tree is 0.5 miles down Armstrong Woods Road (Google Maps link).
Fallen Redwood Cross-Section
History buffs will be fascinated by this fallen tree, dating back to the 10th century (!). The rings along its cross-section have been labeled with tiny plaques denoting major events happening around the world at that time in the tree’s life.
It’s an incredible perspective, contrasting the tree’s age against when the Magna Carta was signed, the Renaissance began, etc.
There’s no map marker to denote the cross-section’s location, but you’ll find it along the Pioneer Nature Trail (about halfway between the park entrance and Colonel Armstrong).
Redwood Tree Roots
Similarly to the fallen cross section (above), there’s no map marker for this landmark along the Pioneer Nature Trail.
Here, a fallen redwood exposes an intricate root network that makes for a memorable photo op.
Redwood Forest Theater
This dreamy outdoor amphitheater sits beneath towering trees for a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
It often hosts concerts and plays – you can check the upcoming events schedule at the Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods website. (Google Maps link)
The Best Hikes in Armstrong Redwoods
The trails at Armstrong Redwoods are gentle, making them easily accessible for all ages, and you can see much of the park’s top highlights within a 2-mile loop.
Armstrong Redwoods Grove Loop (easy, 1.2 miles)
This is the most popular hike in Armstrong Redwoods, traversing an easy loop among soft forest undergrowth.
From the park entrance, take the Pioneer Nature Trail directly north for 0.5 miles. At the “Icicle Tree” landmark, hook onto the Armstrong Nature Trail and follow it back towards the park entrance.
At Colonel Armstrong (the park’s 1400-year-old namesake tree), the path turns into the Discovery Trail, looping back onto the Pioneer Nature Trail and the way you came in. AllTrails link.
Hiking Tip: you can also walk 0.3 miles further up the Pioneer Trail to where it forks at the bathrooms, for a little additional mileage.
East Ridge Trail (moderate, distance varies)
For those looking to add a little elevation, East Ridge offers a quick climb (400’) directly out of the Armstrong Redwoods parking lot.
You’ll gain some ecological diversity too, as the trail crosses into Austin Creek State Recreation Area and trades redwood trees for the pine forests and grasslands typical of northern California.
You’ll likely even cross a few bubbling creeks along the way – just prepare for much hotter temperatures as you climb above the redwood groves (especially during the summer months).
There are multiple hook-backs along East Ridge, allowing you to create as long of a loop as you desire.
You can either take East Ridge straight out and back (for 3.2 miles roundtrip, AllTrails link) or cut back a different way – along either the Pioneer Nature Trail (2.3 miles roundtrip, AllTrails link) or Pool Ridge Trail (5.8 miles roundtrip, AllTrails link).
Note: Once you climb above the redwood forests, temperatures along East Ridge can get significantly hotter during the summer months. Plan accordingly, with plenty of water and layers to shed.
Bullfrog Pond Campground (strenuous, 9 miles)
Bullfrog Pond is a serene little body of water tucked among thick conifer forest. It makes a lovely destination for active hikers desiring a full day’s outing – you’ll take the East Ridge trail all the way out, and can return via Pool Ridge.
Note: As with the rest of the East Ridge trail, ensure you plan for significantly warmer temperatures during the summer months. Bring plenty of water, and layers you can shed as the day progresses.
Other Things to Do in Armstrong Redwoods
Beyond just hiking, there are numerous other activities to help enhance your knowledge and appreciation of these incredible trees and their surrounding ecosystem.
Stop by the Visitor’s Center
Upon arrival, pop into the visitor’s center (next to the parking lot) to learn more about the history of the reserve, its biodiversity, and the efforts of park rangers and volunteers alike to preserve it for future generations.
The park always has unique upcoming activities and events, too, that aren’t always advertised online. Pick up a flyer at the visitor’s center and ensure you don’t miss anything.
Bring a Picnic Lunch
There is no dreamier setting for a picnic, than among these ancient trees. Tables and BBQ grills are located throughout the park – just BYO blankets and snacks.
See a Show at the Redwood Forest Theater
As noted above, the outdoor amphitheater seasonally hosts concerts and plays. It’s a real treat to catch a show in this ethereal setting among the trees.
Check the Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods event website for upcoming listings.
Join a Nighttime Immersion Walk
Curious to see the redwoods in a new light? Park rangers regularly host guided walks, both at dusk and after dark. You’ll learn all about the nocturnal side of the redwood groves (and its inhabitants), and maybe spot some glowing forest animals and fungi.
Check the Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods event website for the next occurrence.
Go Camping
Normally, camping is permitted at Bullfrog Pond, which has a lovely little outcropping of 24 designated campsites.
Unfortunately, the campground was damaged in a 2020 wildfire, and repairs are ongoing as of winter 2026. However, you can check the current status here – and send good vibes for its reopening soon!
Explore Seasonal Events
Armstrong Redwoods has a robust calendar of seasonal explorations, ranging from guided mushroom foraging, to journaling classes and educational seminars (…have you ever wanted to learn animal tracking?)
As always, refer to the Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods website – there’s always something new coming up!
Surrounding Area
Armstrong Redwoods sits just outside of Guerneville, a small town along the Russian River that’s full of retro resort vibes.
It’s easy to extend your time in the area into a full day trip. A few spots and activities we recommend:
- Grab a satisfying burger at Stumptown Brewery, and soak up some sunshine on the outdoor deck overlooking the Russian River
- Peruse the boutiques and thrift stores along River Road.
- Go kayaking or paddle boarding along the river. You can either bring your own watercraft and launch at Guerneville River Park, or rent paddle boards at Russian River Paddleboards and kayaks at Johnson’s Beach.
- Pop into a local wine bar for a tasting flight – both Trillium and Equality Vines are within walking distance of each other.
- Treat yourself to artisanal, small-batch ice cream at Nimble + Finn’s
- Enjoy an elevated meal at The Lodge at Dawn Ranch (just remember to change out of your redwoods hiking attire first!). They’re clearly striving for a Michelin nod, and it shows – the dining experience is first-rate, with an excellent prix fixe dinner menu.