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Prepare for a wide variety of enjoyable
adventures when you embark on a remarkable
paddling journey down the Russian River in
Sonoma County. From hiking through the
magnificent redwood forests, to kayaking along
the Russian River, to watching whales at the
spectacular Sonoma Coast, the Russian River area
has so much to experience and enjoy.
The Russian River is fed by the Van Arsdale
Reservoir on the upper Eel River. The river
begins five miles east of the town of
Willits in Mendocino County and travels
south past the town of Healdsburg before
turning west, where it eventually ends in
the Pacific Ocean. While enjoying a
leisurely paddle along the tranquil waters,
take in the picturesque scenery and
surrounding flora. Mild Class I currents,
sandbars, and rifles need to be negotiated
as the river snakes its way through
beautiful stretches of forests, pastures and
valleys.
As you paddle along the exquisite landscape
surrounding the banks of the river, you will
encounter miles of unspoiled wilderness with
an abundance of wildlife, including nesting
bald eagles. Keep a lookout for other local
wildlife such as deer, turtles, river otter,
snowy egrets and blue herons feeding by the
shore. Stop along the way at a riverside
beach, for a bite to eat on the water’s
edge, or take a swim and play in the
refreshing water. The water temperature is
usually very comfortable throughout the
summer.
As you navigate further along into the lower
Russian River, don’t be surprised if a pod
of seals swims up to your kayak. This
section of the river is wide, deep and
mostly flat water, with large islands and an
open landscape. At the river’s end, enjoy a
stroll on a sandbar that banks both the
river and the coastline.The Class I section
of the Russian River runs for over 50-miles,
beginning below the town of Healdsburg and
extending to the Pacific Ocean at the town
of Jenner. When paddling on any river, be
mindful of possible white water conditions.
Don’t forget to bring along your camera!
Chance discoveries while paddling the
Russian River are one of the enjoyments that
are bound to leave a lasting smile on your
face. Beautiful wildlife and nature are
within your reach, and the images you’ll
 bring
home will provide beautiful memories for a
lifetime. If you bring your desire to
commune with nature, and a willingness to
explore, you’re all set for the paddling
adventure of a lifetime at the Russian
River.
Map of the Russian RIver
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