All in Northern CA

1. 

   Shortlist These National Parks

   We love our national parks. So we created a shortlist of the top parks to visit, and the best hikes to do, once they re-open. We can't wait to get back!

   VIEW
2. 

   New Rules of the Trail

   As parks around California begin to re-open, we came up with tips for being responsible on your outdoor adventures. Let’s do our part so we can all keep enjoying the parks!

   VIEW
3. 

   The Outdoors We're Craving

   We're sharing what adventures we're most craving and plan to do as soon as the time is right

   VIEW
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.

   View
5. 

   How to #OptInside

   Getting a little stir crazy? Covid-19 has unfortunately shut down a lot of open space. What to do? We have a few ways to bring the great outdoors indoors. We've called it #OptInside. Check out the list of easy things to do indoors.

   VIEW
6. 

   Social Distance Hikes and Bike Rides

   Social Distance Hikes and Bike Rides (with important ways for safety during coronavirus)

   VIEW
7. 

   Hikes to Keep Your Calm

   From redwoods to rolling hills and seaside bluffs, these three hikes are great for the soul

   VIEW
8. 

   Afternoon Delight

   Go on a leisurely afternoon hike with beaches, birds, benches and beautiful views.

   VIEW
9. 

   Short Hikes, Cool Views

   Who says good views require big hikes? These three tame trails in the East Bay offer visual rewards without adding extra miles.

   VIEW
10. 

    Russian River Rediscovered

    Here's your Russian River guide to redwood hikes, bike rides to wineries, and sunsets by the sea.

    VIEW
11. 

    Love in the Great Outdoors

    Some of the best dates happen in the outdoors. Whale watching, wine tasting, walking among murals or down to a restored lighthouse … whatever your outdoor loves may be, here are some options!

    VIEW
12. 

    Winter Hikes in Napa

    Before hitting the big Cabs, hit the big views! The cooler months are a fantastic time to do any of these three vista hikes that lead to huge panoramas.

    VIEW
13. 

    Winter Wildlife Wonders

    Elephant seals, birds of all feathers, combine a wildlife hike and a beer for a wild weekend!

    VIEW
14. 

    Desert Dream Trip

    Joshua Tree National Park is stunning in winter. Our top recommendations on exploring this dreamy desertscape in two days.

    VIEW
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. 

    Where to Whale Watch: 3 Top Spots

    Whale hello there! Here are three of the top spots for combining hikes and wine tasting with amazing vantages for spying gray whales.

    VIEW
17. 

    Easy Does It

    Ease into 2020 by trying something new, from a new wine country hike to a new trail in the South Bay.

    VIEW
18. 

    New Year Peak Hikes

    Kick off the decade with a classic peak hike in the Bay Area. Cheers to these views!

    VIEW
19. 

    Top 10 2019 Adventures (Readers Favorites)

    The 2019 outdoor adventures Weekend Sherpa readers most liked in the San Francisco Bay Area and Northern California.

    VIEW
20. 

    Just in Time for the Holidays

    Get into the holiday spirit on these classic Bay Area outings that are like a yule log for your soul.

    VIEW
21. 

    The Coast Is Clear

    Go hike the hills, paddle to a lighthouse, and explore coastal caves near the classic beach town of Avila Beach.

    VIEW
22. 

    Griswolding Outdoors!

    Rule #1 this holiday season: Getting outdoors is a great way to clear the air, and the head, after too much spiked eggnog and turkey talk. And hell-yeah, bring the whole family—you’re all in this together, merry and bright! Here are three ways to hike, drink, and birdsong your way to holiday bliss.

    VIEW