Spring Blooms

Rain may have dampened some things, but there's a bright spot on the horizon: Wildflower season is making a run for it, with blooms scattered up and over the mountains and green hills of the Bay Area. Here are three places for seeing spring’s early blossoms while also enjoying big views!

Week: 03.29.2023
Regions: Northern CA

Haulin’ Oat!

Oat Mine Trail long hike in Napa

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No offense to hot air balloons, but we have a better way to get a bird’s-eye view of Napa Valley. The Oat Hill Mine Trail out of Calistoga climbs up into the Palisades on an old stage coach route. And in spring, wildflowers come out in flying colors!
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Top Dog Destination

Dog Friendly Vacation in Redding

Redding is a pawsitively ideal destination for you and your four-legged pal. Surrounded by Shasta and Lassen and mountainous Whiskeytown, with year-round sunny days and the gleaming Sacramento River running right through it, Redding is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream.
Redding's Top Dog Adventures

Numero Bruno

Hike for Big Bay Area Views and Seasonal Wildflowers at San Bruno Mountain

Just minutes from San Francisco, San Bruno Mountain is like an island of nature amid a sea of urban bustle. With wildflower season starting to kick into high gear, spring is an ideal time to hike this floral wonderland.
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Colors of Coyote

Hike Among Seasonal Wildflowers at Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve

Spring in the Bay Area brings emerald-green hills and bursts of rainbow-hued wildflowers. The 4-mile Arrowhead Loop in Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve is one of the best spots for up-close views of our seasonal colors
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    The 2025 Hiking Calendar Is Here!

    Ready to make hiking part of your New Year’s wellness plan? Get the all-new 2025 Hiking Calendar courtesy of Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST).

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  3. Most Peaceful Hike of All

    Is this the most peaceful one-hour hike in the Bay Area? It's got our vote! Lake Lagunitas is the smallest lake in a series of five found on the north side of Mount Tam, so it’s got that tiny but mighty charm. Do a 1.5-mile loop around the lake's shore-hugging trail.

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  1. Animal Encounters

    Located where Redding’s famous Sundial Bridge overlooks the Sacramento River, Turtle Bay Exploration Park is 300 acres of gardens, a museum and playground, aquarium, and unforgettable up-close animal encounters!

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    Weekend Sherpa Podcast: Take It Outside

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  3. Enchanted in Chantry

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  4. Locals' Feature: Max Smith of Moment Skis

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