Shollenberger Park‘s 2.2-mile loop through Alman Marsh is one of those walks where you’ll actually see things—great blue herons, egrets, ducks—rather than just moving your legs for exercise. The 165-acre park in Petaluma spreads across easy, well-maintained terrain that works whether you want a casual stroll or something with a bit more pace, and the path eventually opens up to views of the Petaluma Marina.

The terrain is flat enough that dogs of different ages and fitness levels can handle it without struggle. Spring and fall are especially good times to visit because migratory birds pass through, which means constant movement and interest along the water. If you’re into birdwatching, bring binoculars—your dog will be occupied with all the new smells while you’re spotting different species.

A few practical notes: there’s no entrance fee, but parking fills up quickly on nice days, so plan to arrive early, especially on weekends. The park is open sunrise to sunset. There are no water fountains along the trail, so bring enough water for both you and your dog. Dogs must stay leashed the entire time, which makes sense given how many birds are around and how fragile the marsh habitat is.

The path itself is straightforward—you won’t get lost—but the scenery changes enough that it doesn’t feel repetitive. You’ll move through different sections of marsh, and depending on the season, the vegetation and wildlife shift. It’s a solid option if you’re in Sonoma County and want somewhere that feels genuinely natural rather than manicured. The walk takes about an hour at a normal pace, longer if you stop to watch birds or just let your dog sniff around the marshy edges.