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Sonoma Coast State Park: There’s nothing quite like a trip to the coast to clear your head and get some much needed “me time.” On the Sonoma Coast, you can take a relaxing stroll on sandy seashores, such as Shell Beach and Blind Beach, and listen to the sound of waves rolling in. The park is also home to the Pomo Canyon Trail, great for exploring the coastal flora and fauna. Jenner, off of Highways 1 and 116. (Kent Porter)
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Pomo Canyon Trail: Getting out in nature is a surefire way to ease stress and increase serotonin levels, and this uncrowded, moderate trail in the coastal headlands near Jenner offers a sublime nature getaway. The trail meanders through grassy valleys and shaded redwood groves, with gorgeous panoramic views of the Russian River and the rocky coastline, making the lush footpath a great green escape from the rest of the world. Access from Shell Beach in Jenner or Willow Creek Road in Duncans Mills. (John Burgess)
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Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary: What could be more relaxing than unwinding with a spa day? Perhaps finding inner peace in a Japanese-inspired Meditation Garden after a relaxing massage. At Osmosis Day Spa, treat yourself to a rejuvenating cedar enzyme bath, sip tea in the gardens and receive a massage in a heated, private pagoda, secluded within bamboo and shady trees. 209 Bohemian Highway, Freestone. (Courtesy photo)
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Grove of Old Trees: Privately owned and outright majestic, the Grove of Old Trees is free and easily accessible to the public, with some trails that are suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. The 33-acre ancient redwoods preserve displays the abundant natural beauty of Northern California, and offers a serene space for visitors to saunter around or enjoy a peaceful picnic. 17599 Fitzpatrick Lane, Occidental. (Shutterstock)
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Lake Ilsanjo in Annadel State Park: In the middle of the expansive Trione-Annadel State Park lies the 26-acre man-made Lake Ilsanjo, a cool swimming hole surrounded by seasonal wildflowers and oak woodlands. After traversing any of the trails leading to the lake, weaving through meadows and rolling hills, you can have a rest and birdwatch on the lakeside bench, take a refreshing dip via the rope swing, and fish for bluegill or black bass. 6201 Channel Dr., Santa Rosa. (Kent Porter)
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Shollenberger Park: While this wetlands park may be a popular place for people to walk, run and bike on the 2-mile loop around Alman Marsh, Shollenberger has a more secluded trail that leads from the marsh to the Ellis Creek Water Recycling Facility. The peaceful pathway wanders through golden grass fields and provides animal lovers with the opportunity to see a variety of native wildlife species, including swans, herons, jack rabbits and the endangered salt marsh harvest mouse. 1400 Cader Lane, Petaluma. (Crissy Pascual)
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Swans at Shollenberger Park in Petaluma. (Crissy Pascual)
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Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve: Whenever you need time for quiet reflection and meditation, take a walk through Armstrong Redwoods for a forest bathing session, otherwise known as the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku. Forest bathing helps reduce stress by walking through and observing the natural world with all your senses, basking in nature’s calming aura. 17000 Armstrong Woods Road, Guerneville.
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The peak of Sonoma Mountain Road: Sometimes all we need to get some peace and quiet is to take a solo joyride on scenic backroads. One of the most beautiful and secluded country roads in Sonoma County is the one leading up toward Sonoma Mountain in Petaluma, winding through lush, pastoral meadows with grazing cows and horses. The top of the hill offers sweeping views of the town, and there are places to pull over on the road to watch the sun set. Sonoma Mountain Road off of Old Adobe Road, Petaluma. (Kent Porter)
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Bouverie Preserve: Nestled in Sonoma’s Valley of the Moon, this creekside nature preserve is an ideal location for those who like to seek solace among wildlife. The environmental conservation and education organization Audubon Canyon Ranch controls access to the preserve to limit human use, so it’s never overcrowded. Enjoy an informational guided tour through lavender fields, oak woodlands and evergreen forests to observe the abundance of animals, including gray foxes, red-bellied newts and more than 130 bird species that live here. 13935 Sonoma Highway, Glen Ellen. (Kent Porter)
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Suttonfield Lake: Across from Bouverie Preserve and deep within Sonoma Valley Regional Park lies a hidden, scenic reservoir typically only known to locals. Collect your thoughts while strolling the perimeter of the glistening Suttonfield Lake and feel at peace observing the birds, amphibians and tree-covered hills as far as the eye can see. 13630 Sonoma Highway, Glen Ellen.
