Muir Woods gets the crowds, but Sonoma County's Russian River has its own ancient grove. Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, just north of Guerneville, protects 805 acres of coast redwoods, part of them old growth. California State Parks says it preserves the kind of forest that covered much of the area before logging began in the 1800s.
The trees to find
- Parson Jones Tree: the tallest in the grove, at more than 310 feet, about a 100-yard walk from the entrance.
- Colonel Armstrong Tree: the oldest, estimated at more than 1,400 years, about half a mile in.
- Icicle Tree: known for its unusual burls.
Trails
The Discovery Trail is wheelchair accessible and has Braille interpretive panels and tree-hugging platforms. The Armstrong Nature Trail is also an easy, accessible walk. The East Ridge and Pool Ridge trails are open to horses, though some close in winter. The grove gets about 55 inches of rain a year, almost all from September to June. There's no camping in the grove, but Austin Creek State Recreation Area next door shares the entrance.
Before you go
Vehicle day use is $10, and drones are not allowed. The park accepts the California Explorer and Golden Poppy annual passes, the free Fourth Grade Pass and the California State Library Parks Pass.