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Submission
The reserve is located three miles north of Guerneville on Armstrong Woods Road. From Highway 101- coming North or South- take the River Road exit (in Santa Rosa). Go west on River Road until you reach Guerneville. At the second stop light make a right hand turn onto Armstrong Woods Road. This road will end in the park.
Great spot. Saw kids playing, people camping and hiking. Not great for toddlers, but still very lovely. So many trails and some beautiful overlooks.
Armstrong Redwoods is a beautiful redwood grove just outside of Santa Rosa. But if you're willing to drive up a steep snaking road, Austin Creek wilderness has a bounty of quiet trails and rivers.
This is a beautiful diverse park. At the bottom the most beautiful redwood tower high above you, when you hike up one of the strenuous trails and are willing to push through, you will pass through forest and up into grassy hills to amazing views!
You can also drive to the top if you are not able, or just don't feel like hiking.
The only reason I am not giving it five stars is my ever pet peeve with many national parks and CA state parks: no dogs allowed on the trails. They are allowed on the pavement and in this particular park one of the paved roads actually goes all the way to the top, so you can still enjoy it with the pups.
(I quite honestly do not understand why they do not open up more parks for owners and dogs, as it would sure bring in a lot more money. I often don't visit parks because I cannot bring my pups. That is missed income...)
East Ridge Trail is a good workout, steep and 3 1/2 miles long. Wear light-colored pants so the tics will be easier to see.
Absolutely gorgeous hiking area. Can be very hot, so bring enough water to stay hydrated. The Austin Creek Trail, which I hiked with a friend of mine, is in my top 10 list of hikes in Northern Cal.
