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1. 
   Northern CA

   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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2. 
   Southern CA

   Stairways to the Sea

   Three stairways, three beaches, one epic coast. This summer, take the scenic route to the sea. These three stairway adventures lead to sandy beaches, sea caves, blufftop campgrounds, and secluded shoreline gems.

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3. 
   Northern CA

   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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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. 
   Southern CA

   Fourth-coming Adventures

   We thought Weekend Sherpa turning 20 this year was a big milestone…then America reminded us it's celebrating 250! Happy Fourth of July! Here are a few ways to celebrate red, white, and blue in the great outdoors.

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6. 
   Northern CA

   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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7. 
   Southern CA

   Kick it Outside

   Kick off your day outdoors, then settle in for the world's biggest game. From beaches and parks to small-town gathering spots, these adventures come with a bonus: nearby places to catch the FIFA World Cup.

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8. 
   Yosemite

   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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9. 
   Northern CA

   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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10. 
    Southern CA

    Lookout Above

    The views are reason enough to go. The history is what makes these hikes even more interesting. From a forested perch on Palomar Mountain to one of Southern California's highest fire lookouts, these historic towers have been helping people watch over the landscape for generations. Here are three lookouts that still reward the climb.

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11. 
    Southern CA

    World Cup Fever? Try FootGolf

    The World Cup is coming to LA! Didn't make the squad? We've got a backup plan. Kick like a soccer player, score like a golfer: it's FootGolf! Bend it, boot it, and celebrate after sinking a 30-foot putt with your feet at these three SoCal FootGolf courses. Gooooaaallll in one!

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12. 
    Northern CA

    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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13. 
    Northern CA

    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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14. 
    Southern CA

    Bu'tiful Days

    Ready for a Bu’tiful day? These three Malibu adventures deliver everything from coast-hugging trails to rugged Pacific panoramas and a quiet oasis escape. Have yourself a truly Mali-butiful day.

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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. 
    CA State Parks

    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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17. 
    Reno

    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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18. 
    Northern CA

    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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19. 
    Southern CA

    Give Mom These Gardens

    This Mother’s Day weekend, go garden-variety! These five botanical gardens are worth a high five for Mom.

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20. 
    Northern CA

    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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21. 
    Southern CA

    Enchanting Hikes, Right Now

    Forest, trees, wildflowers, and wondrous rock formations—what’s not to love about these three spring-primed hikes? Get enchanted.

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22. 
    Northern CA & Southern CA

    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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