Naturally Fun

With great weather year-round, rolling hills, miles of farmland, and a river that runs through downtown, Petaluma invites outdoor exploration. Hike, paddle, ride, or cycle; however you like to play outside, it’s easy to plan your adventure in Petaluma.

By Matt Jaffe

Climb To A View

Ascend to a sweeping vista of the bucolic countryside at Helen Putnam Regional Park, a 216-acre preserve west of town. The six-mile trail network, open to hikers, equestrians, and bikers, travels through the park’s oak woodlands and grassy hillsides. Several different loops lead to the well-named Panorama Trail, which takes in a 360-degree view that’s especially gorgeous in the early morning and late afternoon light.

Hit The Road

Just outside Petaluma, the Spring Hill Road-Chileno Valley loop is a cyclist’s dream. Along this 20-plus mile backroad route, pedal through rolling hills that are even prettier after winter and spring rains paint them a vivid green. There’s just enough climbing to challenge riders, but the miles go quickly thanks to the passing scenery.

Float On The River

Explore the Petaluma River on a tour, or with a kayak or paddleboard rental from Clavey Paddlesports. See the city from a different perspective and keep an eye out for wetlands birds such as cinnamon-colored long-billed curlews and stocky, black-capped night herons.

Pet A Pony

Fall in love with the irresistible herd of miniature horses at family-owned Stable Acres, home to American Made Miniatures Farm Sanctuary. These horses may be small in stature, but they’re certainly not short on charisma, and you can feed and pet them during private one-hour tours (by appointment only). The tour and My First Little Pony classes are a great way to introduce young kids to horses.

Goblin Bros.