All in Northern CA

1. 

   Where to Watch Whales from Shore

   Gray days ahead, and for once we're not talking about the weather this winter! We're talking about gray whales, making their migration north. March is prime time to spy these behemoth beauties on the coast, but you don't have to get out on a boat to do it. Here are some great ways to spot whales from land. For shore!

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2. 

   Wetland Walks

   What’s not to like about post-rain hikes? With all the lush greenery and busy birds, these wetland walks (with rain-scrubbed views of the bay) are short and sweet for this wild weather. No need for any rain dances!

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3. 

   Short Hikes to Waterfalls

   The rain this winter has kept everyone on their toes. And the silver lining: waterfall flows! Here are three short hikes to under-the-radar waterfalls that are in best form during winter, after heavy rain.

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4. 
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   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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5. 

   Wildlife Hikes for Winter

   Word to the wild! Winter’s one of the best times for spotting seals, whales, and birds on a hike. From Año Nuevo to Palo Alto, here are three hikes for seeing wildlife in winter.

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6. 

   Romance Outdoors

   Happy Valentine's Day! Grab your favorite person or people and head outside to spread the love. XO, Weekend Sherpa

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7. 

   Hike-In-Picnics

   Valentine’s Day is on its way—in a pinch for a plan? Go on a picnic! But not just any picnic: a hike-in picnic! Grab your favorite person (or people) and hike to any of these sweet picnic spots in the North Bay.

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8. 

   Snowshoe Hikes

   The simplicity of snowshoeing meets the epic snowfall in Lake Tahoe! Strap 'em on and head out in wintry Sierra bliss on any of these snowshoe hikes. Oh the places you’ll snow!

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9. 

   Winter Wanders

   Coastal redwoods, a ridgetop rambler in Napa, and a hidden waterfall ... winter is a wander-land in Northern California! From the San Mateo Coast to Napa and the Sierra foothills, here are three ways to get out hiking this winter.

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10. 

    Celestial Hikes

    Feeling all starry eyed about 2019? No wonder! This year is going to be a bonanza of celestial events, starting with the super blood wolf moon on January 20. Also coming: 4 more eclipses, 3 supermoons, 1 blue moon, multiple meteor showers and … you get it. So mark your calendar and make some plans: Here are three Bay Area spots to celebrate the wonders of space, stars, the moon, and planets.

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11. 

    Here We Snow!

    Snow doubt about it, Tahoe is going to have an active winter season! But it's not all about the downhill skiing. Snowshoeing, sledding, and cross-country gliding are also fun ways to explore the region and see Big Blue! Here are a few ideas to get you snowing.

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12. 

    Nice View!

    Out with the old, in with the new year. Gaining a fresh perspective (and a nice view!) is as easy as visiting the coast, hiking the East Bay hills, or checking out a newly imagined museum set among redwoods. 2019 is already looking good!

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13. 

    2018's Top 10 Adventures in Northern California

    New year's resolution: get outdoors more! Sounds good to us. We've rounded up some favorite adventures from 2018. Whether you check off one of these adventures or all ten, it's a great way to start the new year. Happy 2019!

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14. 

    Ho Ho Hike!

    Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! In between eggnogs and cheery talk about politics, do something everyone can agree is a good thing: hike! Ho ho out you go.

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15. 
    Sponsored

    2026-06-03

    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.

    View
16. 

    Holiday Hikes and Rides!

    Ho ho, happy holidays. Keep things merry and bright this season with an urban wine pedal, a mistletoe hike, and a hike or bike among chestnuts and pines. Deck the trails!

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17. 

    Un-Wined in Anderson Valley

    Anderson Valley has become a go-to destination for outstanding wines in a charmed yet down-to-earth setting. The rolling vineyards glow in winter’s low-sitting sun, there's a state park with ancient redwoods, and the wineries see fewer folks this time of year: that's more pinot pours for you! Here's an Anderson Valley winter escape plan. Cheers!

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18. 

    Rain or Shine Outdoors

    Hooray for rain! The fires are out, the air is clear, and you can still get outdoors to explore. From a waterfall to a San Francisco hike through a mystic forest, and a shortened version of a classic on Mount Tam, here are three great ways to get outside ... rain or shine.

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19. 

    After the Feast

    November hasn't been easy. Thank you to the heroic firefighters, first responders, and volunteers who have been giving tirelessly and selflessly to those in need. As the saying goes, "The Love in the Air is Thicker Than the Smoke." Here are a few easy outings for spending time with family and friends over Thanksgiving.

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20. 

    Comfort Hikes

    We're thinking about all of the people affected by the wildfires across the state. While these easy hikes may not clear the air, hopefully they can help to clear your mind. We are #CaliforniaStrong.

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21. 

    Waterside Wanders

    It's a bit too early to chase waterfalls, but the time's just right to go on a waterside wander. Whether it's a lake, a reservoir, or a quiet bay, here are three trails perfect for fall.

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22. 

    Five Fall Hikes

    Pumpkin spice your hiking life. From sunset strolls to redwood rambles and waterside wanders, these five hikes have it fall.

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