Spring Forward Hikes

From a Santa Cruz state park hike with a beach bonus, to a Midpeninsula Open Space Preserve hidden behind urban scenes, here are three great hikes to help you spring forward!

Week: 03.17.2016
Regions: Northern CA

Wilder Times

Wilder Ranch State Park Hike Santa Cruz

Stunning redwoods, huge ocean views, rolling hills, and gorgeous beaches … Santa Cruz has epic scenery! So how do you enjoy it all in one jaunt? Go Wilder! A 5-mile (round-trip) hike in Wilder Ranch State Park packs plenty of highlights. Park across from 4 Mile Beach—also part of
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The Most Magical Redwoods of Them All

Spring Getaway Redwoods in Humboldt County

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What’s giant and ancient and red all over? Why, only the most magical redwoods you’ll ever see! Just a few hours from San Francisco, Humboldt Redwoods State Park is home to the largest remaining stand of virgin redwoods in the world. Here’s the plan: Start with the ultimate redwo
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Jonesing For It

St. Josephs Open Space Preserve Los Gatos South Bay Hike

Tucked just shy of the South Bay’s urban domains, the 270-acre St. Joseph’s Hill Open Space Preserve in Los Gatos isn’t bashful about showcasing great scenery. Go on a 4-mile (round-trip) hike here and get gorgeous vistas of the Lexington Reservoir, the Santa Clara Valley, and th
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The Big Short

Bald Mountain Peak Hike in San Jose South Bay

Size matters. So if you’re looking for a short and sweet hike that has the payoff of climbing a tall peak, head to San Jose’s Bald Mountain summit, located in the Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve. From Mount Umunhum Road’s paved parking lot, follow the gently sloping Bald Mountain
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Trending Stories NorCal

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  1. Bike to Aardvark Beach

    Two wheels, a fresh sea breeze, birds, and a beach stop: now that's a California bike ride. Pack a beach blanket and set out on this 16-mile out-and-back pedal along the San Francisco Bay to Aardvark Beach.

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  2. Cheers to Chimney

    If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but it packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring.

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  3. Sponsored

    No Limits Family Trip: Reno Tahoe

    What if your next family getaway didn’t come with a set agenda—just the freedom to go where the day takes you? Find yourselves in Reno Tahoe, a land of no limits and plenty of outdoor bounty.

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  4. Peak at the Flowers

    Terrific views and vibrant hues define this 4.8-mile out-and-back journey on Mount Diablo.

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Trending Stories SoCal

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  1. Can We Get a Whoop Whoop!

    City, mountain, and ocean views all in one hike? Whoop whoop! It’s no surprise the the Kenter Fire Road and Whoop-de-Doos Trail (a combo of fire road and singletrack) is a favorite among local mountain bikers and hikers alike.

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  2. Woman on Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes at Death Valley National Park

    Starry Night & Dark Sky Adventures

    You don’t have to stay out all that late to experience eminent stargazing at Death Valley National Park. The park's been given the highest ranking of darkness by the International Dark Sky Association. From ranger-led to self-guided adventures, here are a few amazing ways to witness the mesmerizing night sky at Death Valley.

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  3. Tree Town

    Home to an estimated 21,000 trees and 100 acres of parkland, South Pasadena has earned its nickname: the City of Trees. This 2.5-mile neighborhood walk lets you experience its leafy canopy up close, winding through charming streets and three of the city’s beloved parks.

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  4. Fountain to Falls trail Monrovia

    Fountain to the Falls

    There are three ways to reach the lovely Monrovia Canyon Falls, but only one of them is worthy of being named a good challenge, with a lovely old town stroll included.

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