If you’re a beginning hiker looking for a short trek, the Water Tower Hike in Petaluma offers beautiful scenery and amazing views from the top. Located near the Helen Putnam Park, it includes grassy hillsides and trails that weave through oak woodlands. At the top of the ridge, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the city and the southern Sonoma County countryside. There is a fishing pond containing blue gill and other fish, an accessible playground, picnic area, and gazebo located nearby. The trail offers some shade, but is mostly exposed, and is a dirt path with no steep grade.

The park is open from sunrise to sunset, and dogs are allowed on the trails. There is parking for 35 vehicles, plus additional equestrian parking and one designated handicapped parking spot. There are also restrooms located at the trailhead along with an information signboard with a park map.