The fires in California have been big national news.

 

Author  Rick Coates

Many people have cancelled planed trips to California’s prime tourist locations in Sonoma, Napa and Marin Counties without knowing the full story.  Here are some facts that you should know:

The Kincade Fire was confined to the eastern portion of Sonoma County mostly in areas with limited habitation.  Although a few wineries and vineyards were burned east of Healdsburg, most of the wineries were unaffected.  Nor were the bulk of the redwood forest affected which are on the west side of the county.  The Sonoma Coast is just as beautiful as ever.  The air is now clear of smoke in western Sonoma County.  Power is now back on in the unaffected areas.

The SMART train is running from San Rafael to Santa Rosa and the Santa Rafael and is connected to San Francisco by the Larkspur Ferry and a free shuttle. The train runs through beautiful bird-filled estuaries along the Petaluma River and stops near the historic downtown Petaluma.  Santa Rosa Downtown SMART Station connects to several bicycle trails to western Sonoma County.  Fall is an excellent time to visit the coast with little fog, great views and wonderful food.  California is a big place with lots to discover.  Come see for yourself.