All in Northern CA

1. 

   Trail Ends, Shoreline Begins

   Beach hike, anyone? These three hike-ins combine scenic trails, salty air, and the perfect excuse to kick off your shoes and linger by the shore.

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2. 

   Yosemite Beyond the Valley

   Yep, Yosemite can get crowded! But here’s something not everyone knows: some of Yosemite’s most iconic experiences happen beyond the Valley floor. From waterfall hikes and panoramic granite climbs not named Half Dome to giant sequoia groves and a legendary sunset vista in a quieter corner of the park, here are a few ways to experience Yosemite beyond the Valley. Yo-go!

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3. 

   Gems of the San Francisco Peninsula

   The San Francisco Peninsula is much more than the home of high tech. Some of the Bay Area’s most iconic outdoor experiences are found here—from dramatic coastline and sprawling beaches to ancient redwood groves and open space preserves with premier views. Add in a buzzworthy food and drink scene, and you've got one of Northern California's most appealing escapes. Here’s a great way to spend a full day!

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4. 
   Sponsored

   2026-06-03

   Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

   The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

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5. 

   Long Live Summer Nights

   Summer days get a lot of love, but some of the season’s best adventures happen after sunset. From guided walks beneath towering redwoods to beach bonfires and stargazing programs, here are three really good reasons to stay out late this summer.

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6. 

   Waterside Picnic Gems

   From beaches to bays, the Bay Area is filled with scenic spots for a picnic or some nearby takeout. From shucking oysters at a recently reopened boat shack to a beachside barbecue and a coastal perch complete with cute farm animals, here are three relaxing ways to dine beside the water.

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7. 

   And the Best CA State Parks Are...

   The people have spoken: California State Park Foundation’s recent “Best of California’s State Parks” awards honored some of the Golden State’s most beloved outdoor places, chosen by thousands of voters. Several are parks we’ve happily explored ourselves, too. Here are a few adventures we recommend from this year’s winners.

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8. 

   Rise in Reno Tahoe

   Reno Tahoe doesn’t fit neatly into a box—and that’s exactly why it’s such a fun place to visit. One moment your family is hiking to a roaring waterfall or strolling alongside the Truckee River, the next you’re eating chicken burgers and catching a baseball game at a ballpark beneath mountain-framed skies. Then it’s on to arty, mural-filled neighborhoods abuzz with cafes and patio dining. There’s plenty of room for spontaneity here. Rise in Reno Tahoe this spring!

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9. 

   Second Wave of Spring

   Recent rains have refreshed these adventures and given spring a welcome extension. But it won’t last long so get out there and enjoy an encore of wildflowers like poppies and lupine, plus bold panoramas of the coast and urban icons. 

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10. 

    Ranch Trails, Open Skies

    Ready to ranch out on some new adventures? These ranchlands from the Bay Area to Monterey offer hiking and biking trails in full bloom. From wildflowers to wild scenery, here are three top places to explore.

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11. 

    Worth the Trip: Point Reyes National Seashore

    Point Reyes National Seashore’s 71,000 acres are a marvel of diverse wildlands. With limited cell service (off-grid-lite), a day here means fewer notifications, more noticing: miles of undeveloped coastline, vibrant wildflowers, dramatic sea cliffs, hidden coves with elephant seals, and more. Here's a marquee way to spend a day in Point Reyes.

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12. 

    Shore Thing: Bike to Beaches

    Grab spring by the handlebars! These three Bay Area bike rides to beaches are primetime, with beautiful scenery, birds, brewpub breaks, and plenty more to keep you rolling. Ride on.

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13. 

    Celebrate Space—Right Here on Earth!

    With Artemis lighting the way, it’s a good time to look up—and get outside after dark. From observatory star parties to ranger-led night walks under some of the darkest skies around, here are a few stellar ways to celebrate space, right here on Earth.

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14. 

    Snap, Crackle, Poppies!

    California poppies should be popping right about now, joined by plenty of other beautiful blooms on these three Bay Area hikes and bike rides, all with big, bold views to match.

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15. 
    Sponsored

    2026-06-03

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

    View
16. 

    Five Stars for Angel Island State Park

    Angel Island State Park may fly under the radar compared to other San Francisco Bay icons, yet it more than holds its own as a stellar standout, with panoramic views at every turn, picnic-perfect spots, scenic trails, hidden beaches, museums, and historic sites. Catch a ferry and make a fulfilling day of it.

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17. 

    Cruz Control

    When the weather heats up, the Santa Cruz coast delivers the perfect cool-down: beachcombing, biking along a bountiful shoreline with an iconic lighthouse, and sweet strolls to the sand. Time to shift into Cruz control.

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18. 

    Marsh Madness

    The Bay Area’s wetlands are prime in winter and early spring, and with so much preserved habitat to explore, it’s hard to settle on just one spot. So consider this your wetland bracket: three places we recommend right now.

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19. 

    Savor These Peak Hikes

    When the clocks spring forward, so should you—on these classic peak hikes. Chase the longer light and savor these summit views.

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20. 

    Peak Green

    Rainy, dry, rainy, dry, rainy … dry?! Mother Nature’s been toggling the settings, but the skies are scrubbed, the hills are shamrock green, and everything’s sparkling. These hikes and bike rides have that fresh-from-the-rain glow. Clarity mode, activated!

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21. 

    All Aboard the Mendocino Coast

    Where dramatic—and secret—headlands meet a rollicking sea and a historic train winds through fragrant forest, Mendocino invites you to slow down, stay awhile. Ride the rails to a redwood grove with a beverage bar and bonus hike, wander wild bluffs and windswept beaches, then toast the day in a postcard-perfect village with a thriving culinary scene. This is Mendo-time.

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22. 

    Last-Minute Romance!

    Roses are red, violets are blue, caught without a Valentine’s plan…we’ve got you! These three outings offer thrilling scenery, lovely greenery, early wildflowers, and bonus ideas for eats and drinks. Sweet!

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