| Along the Russian River to the Coast This drive starts out in Guerneville and take Highway 116 west to the Coast. You get beautiful views of the Russian River and a very noticeable change in environment as you approach the River's mouth. You have two options when you reach Highway 1 which runs north-south along the coastline. The first is to head north into the little town of Jenner. The second is to head south to Goat Rock beach or farther down to the town of Bodega Bay. |
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Along the Coast The options here are to either head north, or south. South - leads along the Sonoma Coast State Beaches. This is a very fun option. The whole coastline is public property with state maintained access to the majority of beaches. You can stop at any point and walking down to your own private beach (if you make a smart choice). North - covers a more rugged section of the california coast. Don't take this route if you are scared of heights. The road leads high up along the dramatic mountain faces hovering over the crashing waves below. Many lookout points allow you to stop and admire the views. |
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Armstrong Redwoods Drive beneath towering redwoods. Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve is located just outside of Guerneville 20 minutes off of Highway 101. Take Armstrong Woods Road to the park from the downtown stoplight (Guerneville's second of two total). there is a fee enter with your car but it is well worth the price. |
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Hills and Vineyards Grand View Route: From the River Road exit off of Highwat 101 to the town of Guerneville. Just off of the Highway you enter into the Russian River Valley. As you start down River Road past the vineyards you see the hills off in the distance. By the time you reach 20 minutes later Guerneville there is no doubt you have ventured out into the countryside. From here you can continue to the Sonoma Coast or head to Armstrong Redwoods. Guerneville or any one of the towns along the way make great stoping spots for good, shopping or fun. |
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Hills and Vineyards Up Close Westside Road and Eastside Road both run between the towns of Forestville and Healdsburg. The area they cover is home to many unique wineries and prize vineyards. The old roads provide some of the slowest driving opportunities! A great trip is to start in either Healdsburg or Forestville, drive one way before noon, spend the day at one end, then drive back later. This way you get to see the area in two different light angles. |
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Into the Forest This route will take you between Monte Rio and Occidental. No other drive puts you as much into the wilderness without entering a park. |