All in Northern CA
Coasting Along
These aren't just hikes to great Pacific and Bay views, these are hikes to great views enjoyed with a swing, bench, picnic table, or labyrinth. Sea it to believe it!
VIEWChicken Soup for the Hiker's Soul
Like chicken soup for the soul, there’s just something about the Marin Headlands that’s comforting. From the hidden hike-in beaches and vast coastal views with golden sunsets, go get your headlands fix on these coastal comfort hikes.
VIEWHow to Lose the Crowds in National Parks
A magical thing happens when you hike just a mile or two from trailheads in popular national parks: Crowds begin to disappear. Even better, go backpacking to really have solitude. These trips in Yosemite, Zion, Point Reyes, and Channel Islands are out-of-office adventure havens.
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Sublime San Juan Islands
Well, well, this wellness action plan takes you to the San Juan Islands! Easily reached by ferry yet worlds away in tranquility and unique adventures, this Washington State jewel of the Salish Sea nurtures through nature.
View Beaches Less Known
Beaches are calling, but a few sandy secrets simply whisper among the waves or shorelines across the Bay Area and North Coast. This summer, hike-in to these beaches less traveled.
VIEWWaterside Rides
The wind in your hair, the scent of the sea, the thirst-quenching beers … who’s ready for a waterside bike ride? These beginner-friendly pedals range from a national park seashore to an island in the sea, with a riverside cruiser to beers in between. Roll call for summer!
VIEWHike San Francisco!
No disrespect to our beautiful parks, but you can go on an amazing hike right in the city! San Francisco is one of the country's most walkable and beautiful cities—and a perfect place to take a hike (including one that's a historical treasure hunt).
VIEWNo Reservations Backpacking and Camping
No reservation? No problem! Well, at least if you have a few of these tips on camping and backpacking in California. From first-come, first-served camping, to no quotas on wilderness backpacking, here are three places to go for summer.
VIEWBeaches, Bike Rides, Campsites
America’s birthday is this weekend. And, well, it’s been quite a year. Take a deep breath at a hike-in beach, pedal a car-free bike trail, or score a first-come first-served campsite.
VIEWCoastal Bliss in Mendocino
Ready, set, take it easy! The Mendocino Coast is a great way to ease into summer. The dramatic coastline offers fantastic hiking, incredible sunsets, romantic lighthouses, a vibrant botanical garden, and plenty more.
VIEWOh That's Cool
Since you can't crank the air conditioning outdoors, we found some ways to beat the heat and cool down, courtesy of nature. From coastal bike rides to redwood hikes and picnics, here are some ways to chill outside.
VIEWTruly Baymazing Adventures
The San Francisco Bay is the heartbeat of our region, and these ridge rambling hikes and adventures from the East Bay to right on the Bay have amazing iconic views, and some really cool surprises too.
VIEWBike-In Beaches
Summer, beaches, bike rides ... is there a better triple play? Grab summer by the handlebars and ride your bike to the beach. These three bike-in-beaches are ready to roll.
VIEWOfficial Hikes for the Unofficial Start of Summer
The unofficial start of summer kicks off this weekend, so start it with a long sweet hike. Here are five to set your sights on.
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Sublime San Juan Islands
Well, well, this wellness action plan takes you to the San Juan Islands! Easily reached by ferry yet worlds away in tranquility and unique adventures, this Washington State jewel of the Salish Sea nurtures through nature.
View Bright Lights and the Great Outdoors
Is there a city with easier access to the great outdoors than Reno? In 15 minutes you can be on hiking trails to waterfalls and big Sierra views. Or right in town you can enjoy walks and bike rides beside the Truckee River, which cuts right through downtown Reno.
VIEWStairways to Heavenly Views
To get really great views you’ve often gotta climb. Good thing there are some really cool stairs to help you step up to the scenery. These three Bay Area hikes feature stairways to heavenly views.
VIEWWetland Wanders
Enjoy a little mellow time: Wetland preserves are a nice way to be outdoors, wander waterside, and listen to birdsong while trying to spot a few feathered favorites. Here are three worth flocking to!
VIEWNature Therapy
When was the last time your prescription read "explore a lavender labyrinth" or "hike to a summit for sunset." Indeed, Sonoma County is just the dose of wellness and outdoors the doctor ordered.
VIEWSuper Spring Hikes
Soaring vistas, wildlife sightings, wildflowers. Some hikes are super in spring! From Pinnacles National Park to a truly wild county park near San Jose, here are spots for soaking in spring’s bounty.
VIEWNapa Hikes for Spring
Napa is famous for big Cabs but its hiking trails also offer something big: views! These hikes are spectacular for huge views, where spring uncorks an array of wildflowers too. Wine & food bonuses!
VIEWKaleidoscope Hikes
With dashes of spring color and wide-open views, these Bay Area hikes are like a kaleidoscope brought to life!
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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).
Get the 2025 POST Hiking CalendarYour Inbox to the Outdoors
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