Located between Cloverdale and the Mendocino Coast, Anderson Valley stretches along Hwy 128. Yorkville marks its eastern end, Boonville and Philo are located in its center, and Navarro sits at its western terminus. The main highway is busiest on the weekends as tourists head to and from Mendocino Village and Fort Bragg on the North Coast. The valley is sparsely populated on mostly large parcels, with Boonville leading Anderson Valley in activity and population. The valley is filled with rolling hills, shaded with oak and madrone trees, and home to apple orchards, vineyards and colorful wildflowers. Some 1,000 acres of wine grapes are produced in the area, and many localwineries with tasting rooms are found there, primarily along Hwy 128. According to Food & Wine magazine, “Anderson Valley may be one of the best places in the country to grow Pinot Noir.”
Things to Do
In addition to wine tasting, visitors can enjoy galleries of local artwork executed in such media as stained glass, pottery, woven fabrics and woodworking. Boonville features gift shops, antiques, restaurants and an ice cream parlor. Local markets offer picnic and deli items for travelers passing through and on the go. Anderson Valley has several parks where visitors can enjoy bird-watching, hiking, picnicking and fishing. Most contain campsites set among towering redwoods. Hendy Woods is a favorite spot for local nature lovers. The park borders the Navarro River and has 92 campsites as well as day use facilities.
