Going for Gold in the Golden State

The Winter Olympics don’t have to be a spectator sport. Snow or no snow, California has all the right stuff for chasing your own golden moments. From learning to curl to lacing up skates with Half Dome as your backdrop, these winter sports celebrate the spirit of the Golden State.

Week: 02.04.2026
Regions: Southern CA

You Go, Curl!

Learn to Curl at Hollywood Curling

People on ice learning to curl at Hollywood Curling
Hollywood Curling’s Learn to Curl classes make the perfect setting for newcomers. Take the ice, and friendly curling instructors will teach you the basics.
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Warm Up to Winter in Reno Tahoe

Winter Outdoors and Relaxation in Reno Tahoe

2026 is just getting started, but there’s one place already rising to the top as the best for adventure and relaxation: Reno Tahoe. The awe—and ahhhs—begin as soon as you arrive. Go for Soak! Reno Tahoe is filled with warm vibes, including its abundant natural hot springs. The r
Winter's Best Activities in Reno Tahoe

Blades of Glory!

Ice Skating at Curry Village Ice Rink in Yosemite National Park

Ice skaters make their way around Curry Village Ice Rink with Half Dome in the background.
It might be the best place this side of Canada to lace up the skates and put one blade in front of the other. The Curry Village Ice Skating Rink in Yosemite National Park offers a brilliant view of Yosemite’s iconic Half Dome.
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Peace and Pistes

Go Cross-Country Skiing at Lakes Basin in Mammoth

A cross-country skier gliding across a bridge at Tamarack Cross-Country Ski Resort in Mammoth Lakes.
Downhill not your cup of cocoa? Go Nordic! Mammoth’s stunning Lakes Basin has miles of groomed cross-country ski and snowshoe trails where you won’t find thick crowds or expensive lift tickets. What you will find is a serene wonderland of frozen lakes and pine forests.
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Trending Stories NorCal

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  1. Waterfall Hunter

    If you ask a local in Reno about one of the best hiking trails in town, odds are high they’ll point you to Hunter Creek Falls. It’s a year-round favorite, but it absolutely shines in spring, when desert peach wildflowers make a splash—and so does the marquee waterfall.

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  2. Cheers to Chimney

    If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but it packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring.

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  3. Sponsored

    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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  4. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

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Trending Stories SoCal

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  1. Garland in Bloom

    Carmel Valley is known for its quaint wineries and scenic hiking trails. Enjoy both on this 3.75-mile loop through Garland Ranch Regional Park.

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  2. A woman stands amid an array of yellow and purple flowers at Descanso Gardens in Los Angeles

    Petal Paradise

    Tulips, lilacs, and daffodils—flower power is in full bloom at Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge. Sprawling across 150 acres surrounded by mountains, the gardens are putting on their best show right now.

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  3. Bike the Coastal Trail to Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay

    Ride and Seek

    Oceanside breezes, beautiful beaches, a car-free pathway for biking, and beer at the end: You’re on a roll! The San Mateo Coast was made for beach hopping and beer tasting … and it all goes down smooth as part of an 8-mile out-and-back bike ride.

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  4. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

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