This 1.8-mile multi-use trail on the east side of the Laguna de Santa Rosa channel gives you a straightforward walk with real payoff—especially the overlook with benches that faces both the lagoon and vineyards stretching across the landscape. The trail runs between Highway 12 and Occidental Road, with parking available along both, so you can choose whichever end works for your schedule.

Head north from the Highway 12 entrance and you’ll get views of Mount Saint Helena rising up in the distance. The trail itself is flat and easy to manage, which means you can focus on the water and the birds instead of watching your footing. Your dog stays on a leash no longer than 6 feet for the main multi-use section—they’ll appreciate the shade from oak and riparian growth along the channel, and there’s plenty of interesting ground-level scenery to keep them engaged.

There’s an unpaved .6-mile pedestrian-only loop that branches off toward the riparian cover if you want to add distance, but dogs aren’t allowed on that segment due to the environmental sensitivity of the area. It’s worth knowing going in so you can plan accordingly.

One thing to keep in mind: this landscape changes dramatically with rainfall. When it’s been raining, the Laguna floods from its usual dry state, and sections of the trail may close. After dry months, you might find it a bit dusty and exposed, so timing your visit around the rainy season or checking conditions beforehand makes a real difference in what you’ll experience. The overlook benches are a good spot to stop midway and let your dog rest while you take in the view of the surrounding wetlands and vineyard country.