A soaring cathedral of redwood trees located just outside the charming town of Guerneville, Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve—often referred to as Armstrong Woods—is an enchanting, old-growth grove. Visitors will come face to face with some of the world’s tallest living beings, scattered throughout 805 acres of primeval redwood forest.

Just a short drive from Santa Rosa and about 1.5 hours north of San Francisco, the Armstrong Woods offers an easy escape into a world of towering redwoods and fresh, forest air. Whether you’re up for a day of exploring or just want a quiet moment among these magnificent trees, this reserve is a great spot to slow down and soak up the beauty of Sonoma County.

Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the Armstrong Redwoods, including things to do, its history, and the best time to visit.

The History and Significance of Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve

Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve is one of 49 California state parks where visitors can find redwood forests. At one point in time, 2.2 million acres of redwoods covered the coast of Northern California and just across the Oregon border, although only 120,000 acres (just over 5%) is left today.

The California Gold Rush caused the decline of the redwoods as sawmills began to pop up to meet the demands of an influx of settlers who used the wood for building homes and businesses. Redwoods were especially coveted due to their resistance to rot and fire. Because of this, more than 95% of California’s redwoods are now lost to time.

Despite being a lumberjack and sawmill owner himself, Colonel James Armstrong took steps to protect the Armstrong redwood grove in the 1870s. His interest in preserving these ancient trees was passed on to his daughter, who kept his dream of having the redwoods officially preserved alive. The grove was eventually purchased by Sonoma County in 1917 and later by the State of California in 1934. Today, conservation efforts continue through projects like the Armstrong Redwoods Habitat Protection and Restoration Project, which aims to mitigate the impact of heavy visitation on the fragile forest ecosystem.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve depends on what kind of weather conditions you’re hoping to find. Peak season is in May and June, with magical morning fog and cool temperatures that give way to warm and sunny weather by afternoon. Summer is also lovely, as it stays somewhat cooler (though still warm) than other parts of Sonoma County.

In spring, wildflowers like trillium, fairy bells, and redwood orchids blanket the forest floor. Temperatures are fairly mild and the fog you’ll find in summer stays at bay. Winter can also be an enchanting time to visit, as there’s a chance you’ll have the forest all to yourself. This is the rainiest time of year—the park sees 55 inches annually after all—but that also means that the forest comes alive, covered in verdant green mosses and lichens.

Recreational Activities / Things to Do

From hiking to horseback riding, there are plenty of things to do in Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve!

Taking a hike on one of the self-guided nature trails is one of the best activities, allowing visitors to see the redwoods up close and experience the tranquility of the forest. There are 9.2 miles of trails that wind their way through the reserve. Most of these trails are fairly short, but they can be combined for a longer hike. Some of the best include the Burbank Circle Trail (0.4 miles), Armstrong Tree Trail (0.5 miles), and Discovery Trail (0.2 miles). The historic Redwood Forest Theater makes for a great stop on the Armstrong Nature Trail, sometimes holding concerts and plays with seating for 1,200!

Many of the trails, including the Discovery Trail and Armstrong Nature Trail, are paved and wheelchair accessible, so everyone can enjoy these majestic Coast Redwoods. You’ll also find interpretive panels with braille and a fun tree hugging platform on the Discovery Trail.

For those looking to enjoy a meal in nature, there are shaded tables nestled among the redwoods at the designated picnic area toward the back of the park. This scenic spot is also available for group reservations and special events, including weddings, through the Russian River District Office.

Equestrian trails are open seasonally in the summer, although you’ll need your own horses to explore the redwoods on horseback. Stop by the Visitor Center and Nature Store, which features interpretive displays on the history of the natural park and souvenirs that help support conservation efforts. Hours are from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm.

Flora and Fauna

While the towering redwoods are the star of the show at Armstrong, this old-growth forest is home to many species of plants and animals. Visitors will also find other beautiful trees, like tan oak, California laurel, Douglas fir, and big-leaf maples, alongside Bracken and Sword Ferns.

Some of the most famous redwoods, known scientifically as Sequoia sempervirens, include the 1,400-year-old Colonel Armstrong Tree, and Parson Jones, the tallest tree at over a football field high. Also, keep your eyes peeled for Icicle, known for its huge burls.

A few of the animals you might come across include squirrels, foxes, raccoons, deer, coyotes, wood ducks, spotted owls, and skunks. Black bears and the occasional mountain lion also call the park home, although they’re more of a rare sight.

Tips for Visiting Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve

• The park is open from 8:00 am to one hour after official sunset. Parking is $10 per vehicle and $9 for seniors (62 and older). Free parking is available at the entrance lot, but requires a short walk into the reserve.
• Restroom facilities are scattered throughout the park at the Redwood Forest Theater, Visitor Center, and Picnic Area.
• Visitors should never remove natural items from the park, including pinecones or bark. Always practice Leave No Trace principles.
• Dogs must be leashed and are only allowed on paved roads—not on trails.
• If hiking in the summer, pack plenty of water and sunscreen. While the trees provide shade, it can still get hot and dry in some areas.
• There is no camping in the park.
• Cell phone service is often spotty in the park.
• Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods offer docent-led tours for groups of five or more. Be sure to book at least two weeks in advance. Ranger-led programs are also available seasonally.