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.

Week: 07.01.2026
Regions: Southern CA

Big Time Hike

Hike Mariposa Grove in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Mariposa Grove hike Wawona Point
This is the largest grove of giant sequoias in Yosemite. We recommend this grand tour hike at 7.5 miles which includes a spectacular overlook.
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Zoom Up Zuma

Hike the Zuma Ridge Trail in Malibu

Some hikes just rise above the rest. The Zuma Ridge Trail is a 5.2-mile out-and-back hike that begins in a posh Malibu neighborhood before climbing to a stunning ridgeline with sweeping mountain and ocean views.
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Give Me Morro!

Sunset Kayak Morro Bay to Morro Rock Dunes

Kayaking Morro Bay
Like a Half Dome of the Central Coast, Morro Rock is an iconic fixture of San Luis Obispo County's shoreline. It's especially beautiful to see at sunset, from secluded sand dunes that are accessed by kayak. The good folks at Central Coast Outdoors lead a magical kayak tour at sun
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A Better Way to Baldwin

Hike the Park to Playa Trail in Culver City

A stone gate and a plaque sign indicating the Park to Plays Trail in Culver City
The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook in Culver City is one of West L.A.’s most popular hiking spots, but most visitors miss the bigger picture. This 3.5-mile out-and-back along a section of the Park to Playa Trail offers a fuller experience of this gorgeous nature park with sweeping urban views and a few artistic surprises along the way.
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Shore Thing!

Hike Crystal Pier to Mission Beach in San Diego

Beach hop from pier to jetty on a 6-mile (round-trip) journey infused with classic beach culture. The trip starts at Pacific Beach Pier (aka Crystal Pier, after the classic cottages lining its edges) and goes to the Point Medanos jetty, the southernmost area of iconic Mission Bea
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Trending Stories NorCal

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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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Trending Stories SoCal

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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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