- Park: Riverfront Regional Park https://parks.sonomacounty.ca.gov/Visit/Riverfront-Regional-Park/
- Date Visited: 3/6/21
- Parking and Entrance Fees: Parking lot with ample parking and restroom ~ $7 daily entrance fee
- Distance and Elevation: 2.2 miles, 40 ft gain
- Fitness Level: Beginner
- Dogs allowed: Yes, on leash
- Map: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/riverfront-regional-park?u=i
Sometimes less is more….
There is no doubt about it, I am a mountain girl. There is great satisfaction found in conquering one on my own two feet ~ Peak baggers they call us. Don’t, though, be intimidated by that as there is equal satisfaction to be found in various types of “hikes.” I’m sure one could debate the definition of “hiking.” Is it only possible to “hike” in mountain ranges? Many would think so. However, everyone has their one “jam” and I believe great value can be found even through a walk in the park….
Utilizing your own propulsion, through nature’s gymnasium, provides exercise for the body, mind and spirit. Yes it may, at times, feel like work. However, that work comes with reward.
Life is a growth journey, that ends only when our time is up. We only get one shot, and much can be missed if we spend all our time fretting about the past, or focusing on the future. I am learning to find joy even in the simple things, as each moment occurs. On this day, a walk in the park, brought me peace. The fresh air, brilliantly blue sky, three dimensional clouds, and breathtaking reflections was grounding. Chris’s company and the energy of my pups, brought me joy. My dogs, Tyson and Maia, were ecstatic…. Much like children on Christmas morning. With tails held high and frantically wagging, they were smiling. It was 2.2 miles, on flat ground, but I felt like I was on top of the world nonetheless.
Riverfront Regional Park is technically found in Healdsburg, but it is on the outskirt of town. Driving by, you wouldn’t even know it was there if you weren’t looking for it. What a hidden gem .
Being a straightforward walk, there is little in the way of logistics to comment on. The trail loops the lake, with a wider high trail, and a single track lower trail. Much of the lake is surrounded by towering redwoods lending to the spectacular reflections, with strategically placed benches allowing for moments of rest and reflection lakeside. Boats on the lake, signaled the hoped presence of fish. There are areas near the water flat enough to lay down a blanket for a picnic or a meditative rest.
The park is popular, and the sounds of excited exploring children filled the air. I smiled as I heard one little girl exclaiming, “I don’t want to go….. I want to play.” Me too, little one….. Me too!
Many others were out walking their dogs, or simply enjoying the company of others. We stumbled upon one group who had brought along their own camp chairs and formed a socializing circle in a clearing overlooking the calm waters. With all the couped up craziness resulting from COVID 19, folks were clearly thrilled to be outdoors.
Among the Redwoods, offshoot trails could be seen going up into the trees, however these trails are not on the AllTrails map. Deciding not to explore them on this day, I am uncertain where they lead. Mother Nature has once again provided a bit of mystery to be discovered another day.
Whether it be a walk in the park, or a mountain to climb, I encourage you to find your jam. It matters not whether you go alone, or take others with you. What matters is that you take care of you. Step into your journey and evolve into the best you possible.
Stay well, stay true……