Many of us, myself and wife included, dream of living in Sonoma or any of the blessedly beautiful places north of San Francisco. If you do go, do not, do not, miss the gem in the crown…Armstrong Woods. This magical place sits at the end of a long winding road that begins from the Guerneville main drag and leaves you agape. Yes, a great use of a rare word: why agape? Because after you walk ¼ mile into the woods, you will be in surrounded by the Notre Dame-like massiveness and silence of the imperial redwoods. You will be transported. Your breath becomes shallow, then once you realize you’re holding it because of ho stunningly beautiful and silent your surroundings are. Between the moss, ferns, are the massive giants, reaching beyond your eyesight into the sky.
If nature has a religious element, it is to be found here. Armstrong is better than Muir Woods, which many would contest. Muir Woods, while perhaps having more forest density, is also a nearly overrun tourist stop. Not that Muir Woods is bad, it is just simply that Armstrong is better. More authentic, less crowded, more space between the giants to let them breath and have their way on your consciousness.
If you are a hiker, then go further in – brave drivers can drive to the peak and Bullfrog Pond. This is a camp ground but also the furthest you can drive into the actual mountain range and park Armstrong is gateway to. The hikes are not easy, but you can do however much or little as you see fit, it is all magnificent. Take lots of water and a snack.
And breath…breath the ancicnet air inside a redwood grove…they scatter the hills and can surprise you.
Outspoken Traveler 