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.

Week: 04.29.2026
Regions: Northern CA

Lively La Honda

Hike or Bike at La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve

Peninsula & South Bay
Bike Rides
Spice up your hiking routine with three trails in La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve. This 11-mile out-and-back includes 6 miles of relatively new paths.
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Garland in Bloom

Hike & Drink Wine at Garland Ranch Regional Park in Carmel Valley

Greater California
Hikes
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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No Limits Family Trip: Reno Tahoe

Plan a Spring Summer Family Vacation to Reno Tahoe

Sponsored
What if your next family getaway didn’t come with a set agenda—just the freedom to go where the day takes you? Find yourselves in Reno Tahoe, a land of no limits and plenty of outdoor bounty.
Plan a Family Trip to Reno Tahoe

Wilder Times

Wilder Ranch State Park Hike Santa Cruz

Peninsula & South Bay
Water, Hikes
Stunning redwoods, huge ocean views, rolling hills, and gorgeous beaches … Santa Cruz has epic scenery! So how do you enjoy it all in one jaunt? Go Wilder! A 5-mile (round-trip) hike in Wilder Ranch State Park packs plenty of highlights. Park across from 4 Mile Beach—also part of
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A Hiker looking over a mountain range

Your Inbox to the Outdoors

Stay up to date with our weekly recommendations on where to explore locally in California.

Trending Stories NorCal

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  1. Walk on the Wise Side

    A wise man once said, “Walk it off.” And San Francisco has just the place for a colorful walk via a 2.7-mile loop along Philosopher’s Way Trail in the 318-acre John McLaren Park (S

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  2. Hiker on the SCA trail in Marin Headlands with view of the Golden Gate Bridge

    Headlands Over Heels

    People come from all over the world to get a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge. Get a dramatic and novel view of the bridge without all the people on this moderate 6-mile hike in the Marin Headlands.

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  3. woman hiking Mt Tam east peak
    Sponsored

    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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  1. Woman hiking the San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail to San Onofre State Beach in San Diego County

    Bluffing Good!

    Lovely coastline, beautiful beaches, unique geological history, and picturesque sandstone cliffs with limited foot traffic in San Diego County? Head to San Onofre State Beach and the 5-mile San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail.

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  2. Can We Get a Whoop Whoop!

    City, mountain, and ocean views all in one hike? Whoop whoop! It’s no surprise the the Kenter Fire Road and Whoop-de-Doos Trail (a combo of fire road and singletrack) is a favorite among local mountain bikers and hikers alike.

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  3. The Big Chill

    In LA, finding a place to chill can be the ultimate flex. So flex, in Franklin Canyon! This unexpected oasis has plenty of shade, cool lake breezes, and ample picnicking spots. Enjoy it on an easy-going 1-mile stroll along its reservoir and duck pond.

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