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.

Week: 07.02.2026
Regions: Northern CA

The Shack is Back!

Relax and Picnic at the Nick's Cove Boat Shack

Point Reyes is full of hidden hideaways, including the unassuming boat shack at Nick’s Cove. Quietly perched at the end of a public pier overlooking Tomales Bay, the shack is a coastal landmark. It's well worth a visit!
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Strong and Steady

Visit Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve in Sonoma County

If Muir Woods has a doppelganger, it’s Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve near Sonoma County’s Russian River. This 805-acre park is home to some seriously old (1,400+ years!) and impressively tall (310 feet!) coast redwoods, the tallest living things on earth.
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Her Name is Del Rio

Russian River's New Beach at Del Rio Woods

Woman sitting beachside under a sun umbrella at Del Rio Woods beach near Healdsburg in Sonoma County
Kayakers on the Russian River near Healdsburg in Sonoma County
Floaters in floatation tubes going down the Russian River near Healdsburg in Sonoma County
Kayakers paddling the Russian River near Healdsburg in Sonoma County
Del Rio Woods east of Healdsburg along Sonoma County's Russian River is a welcome addition to the Regional Parks system.
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Purely Purisima

Take an Easy Hike at Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve

Take a relaxing hike on the lower section of Purisiima Creek Trail in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve.
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Bike to Aardvark Beach

Bike along the San Francisco Bay to Aardvark Beach

Two wheels, a fresh sea breeze, birds, and a beach stop: now that's a California bike ride. Pack a beach blanket and set out on this 16-mile out-and-back pedal along the San Francisco Bay to Aardvark Beach.
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Cycle the Scenery & Historic Sites

Bicycle Angel Island's Scenic Perimeter Road

Bicycle Angel Island Perimeter Road San Francisco Bay
A bike ride is a fantastic way to take in the 360-degree panoramas you get on Angel Island. Perimeter Road is a car-free route that circumnavigates the island, allowing for plenty of scenic and historic stops.
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  1. Purely Purisima

    Take a relaxing hike on the lower section of Purisiima Creek Trail in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve.

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  2. Muir Woods Night Tour

    Thousands of people flock to Muir Woods every year, yet only a few see it at night, when this beloved park is experienced in a whole new light. The Muir Woods Night Tour happens on the last Friday of every month through October.

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  3. Slide Ranch Marin

    Slide On Over

    Marin's Slide Ranch has a popular neighbor in the Muir Beach Overlook. But don’t overlook Slide! This open-to-the-public nonprofit organization sits on 134 acres of coastline and is filled with animals, Pacific scenery, and an adjacent hiking trail.

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  4. 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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  1. Been There, Dome That

    Surrounded by granite domes, craggy peaks, and miles of hiking trails, the High Sierra landscape of Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National Park is famous for good reason. For a truly grand view, take a short hike to bold—and bald (except for snow at times)—Lembert Dome.

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  2. Wapama Wows

    Hetch Hetchy can be overlooked in Yosemite National Park because of its more remote location and limited facilities. But this is where you’ll also find one of the best day hikes in the park: Wapama Falls.

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  3. 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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  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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