All in Northern CA

1. 

   Three Ways to Tam!

   Our Adventure Challenge clock is ticking, and time’s running out to earn our commemorative T-shirt. Know what that means? It’s Tam time! We’ve got some easy and terrific ideas for knocking out your three adventures in one grand day, in one grand place, Marin's Mount Tam. Have a Tamtastic time!

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2. 

   Fall Peaks

   Fall is officially here, with the landscape churning earthier tones. Enjoy them by hiking up to some of the Bay Area’s most scenic peaks, including a less-traveled summit .

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3. 

   Headspace in the Headlands

   Need a little headspace? Head for the Headlands to savor the last of summer with these beach, hike, and high-point adventures.

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4. 
   Sponsored

   2026-09-30

   Marquee Marin

   There may be no better place to find the best in coastal outdoors than the Marin Headlands. Bluff-side hiking trails, beautiful sandy beaches, big Pacific views, an iconic lighthouse, and unique lore in the area’s historic batteries are all part of the action here.

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5. 

   Six Appeal

   Warning: These six adventures may make you fall hard for Reno Tahoe! We're in full swing with our 2026 Adventure Challenge, where you can earn our 20th Anniversary commemorative T-shirt just by getting outdoors. Bonus: Complete one of your adventures in Reno Tahoe and you'll be entered to win a 2-night Reno Tahoe getaway. Here are six reasons to make Reno Tahoe part of your Adventure Challenge.

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6. 

   Long Live the Long Weekend

   As the long weekend arrives, here’s your reminder: Any adventure you find on our website counts toward completing our annual Adventure Challenge and earning this year’s exclusive commemorative T-shirt. All you have to do is three! Details on our site. Here are a few current favorites to consider.

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7. 

   Go See the Big Things!

   It’s National Park Week. Don’t just go big, go big trees! From the biggest trees to the tallest trees, these three national parks have some must-see giant sequoias and coast redwoods. 

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8. 

   Challenge Accepted

   The 2026 Adventure Challenge is in full swing! Looking for ideas to earn your commemorative T-shirt? Here are some of our favorite adventures featured this summer—but you can choose anything from our site. After 20 years of Weekend Sherpa, you’ve got plenty of options!

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9. 

   Once Upon a Trail

   In California, the great outdoors can be downright enchanting after dark. Wander among towering redwoods magically illuminated in rainbow hues, follow a landscape aglow with thousands of technicolor lights, hike beneath the moon with music floating through the trees, or paddle across an estuary as bioluminescent plankton make the water sparkle. These adventures are the stuff of fairy trails.

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10. 

    Walk This Way

    Sure, you could Waymo. But it's way more fun to walk San Francisco. Explore the city's newest urban adventure, the Golden Gate Dozen, wander Philosopher's Way, and follow the Barbary Coast Trail through the city's colorful history.

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11. 

    The Adventure Challenge Starts Now!

    Get outside, explore, and earn our exclusive 20th Anniversary Commemorative T-shirt. It's as easy as 1, 2, 3.

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12. 

    Greatest Hits of the Sierra

    When it comes to summer hiking, the Sierra never misses a beat. From a historic fire lookout and alpine lakes to granite domes and classic summits, these four adventures deliver Hall of Fame views.

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13. 

    Midsummer on the Water

    Summer's not cooling down just yet. Take to the water and soak in some of the season's most relaxing scenery. Whether you're paddling a protected harbor in Half Moon Bay, floating the Napa River, or pedaling across a South Bay lake, these adventures are made for lingering summer days.

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14. 

    The Many Sides of Mount Tam

    Been there, done Tam? Mount Tam's magic lies in its diverse landscapes. Wander among peaceful redwoods, explore its wilder side with sweeping coastal views, or hike to a historic mountainside inn hosting an ice cream fundraiser this weekend. Sweet!

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15. 
    Sponsored

    2026-09-30

    Marquee Marin

    There may be no better place to find the best in coastal outdoors than the Marin Headlands. Bluff-side hiking trails, beautiful sandy beaches, big Pacific views, an iconic lighthouse, and unique lore in the area’s historic batteries are all part of the action here.

    View
16. 

    Oh, Fourth Sure!

    Weekend Sherpa turns 20 this year. And America? It's got quite a few birthdays on us! Happy Fourth of July! Here are a few ways to celebrate red, white, and blue in the great outdoors this weekend.

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17. 

    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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18. 

    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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19. 

    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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20. 

    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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21. 

    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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22. 

    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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