Springtime always comes in glory to Northern California. Wildflowers pop up unexpectedly, covering hillsides and fields in blankets of orange, yellow, white, and purple. And the gray weather of winter dissolves into azure skies. Of course, when weather like this happens, how can you not want to do something fun? So, if you’ve got spring fever and the itch to do something beautiful, here are four great ways to enjoy these beautiful April days.
Go Wine Tasting in Wine Country: If there’s one thing that there is plenty of in wine country, it’s wineries. If you’re looking for a great tasting experience and want to get away from the crowds, take a day trip and taste at two unique Lake County wineries: Six Sigma Ranch and Winery and Wild Diamond Vineyards. These aren’t the kinds of places where you taste and run; take your time, grab a charcuterie tray, and savor the views and wildflower blooms. If you’re looking for a bigger experience, visit Korbel Winery in Guerneville. At this famous winery, you can take a tour, taste on the patio, and enjoy a meal from their delicatessen.
Head to the Sonoma Coast: When the weather’s this nice, the coast always beckons, and few coastlines are as beautiful as those in Northern California. The Sonoma coast is filled with arches, rocks, and cliffs interspersed between hidden beaches and coves. My recommendation? Start your trip at Bodega Bay (be sure to swing by Spud Point Crab Company for some incredible chowder), then head north up the coastline. You can choose to turn inland at Jenner and cruise up the Russian River or continue up the coastline and visit the historic Fort Ross.
Spend a Day on the Oldest Lake in North America: At this time of year, a trip to Clear Lake deserves a day of its own. In spring, the lake comes alive. The tules start pushing out of the water, the grebes begin mating, and the bass are still spawning. If you’re looking for nature, stop by Clear Lake State Park and take a stroll through the woods–it’s a paradise of wildflowers and wildlife. For a longer hike through vibrant wetlands, visit Anderson Marsh. The 3.5-mile McVicar trail follows the edge of the marsh and ends at the lake. Pack a picnic and enjoy an afternoon with the blue herons and egrets. If you prefer a beer while you soak in a spring day, you can enjoy the lake and some great food simultaneously. Stop by Stein and Wein in Clearlake for some spectacular German food on their deck overlooking the water.
Go for a Hike: Just outside of the town of Guerneville lies the forest primeval. Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve is home to a spectacular grove of redwoods that immediately takes you somewhere else–it feels like stepping into the world of the dinosaurs. Don’t worry. It’s okay if you feel like whispering. If you’re looking for wildflowers, there are few better places to go for a hike in April than Highland Springs. Located between Kelseyville and Lakeport, this reservoir has miles of trails that all ache to be explored. It doesn’t matter which trail you take; you’ll be sure to find a wide array of springtime beauty.
