All in Northern CA

1. 

   What's New?

   A new pair of shoes, that new car smell… We all love new, and the North Bay has some new ways to get outdoors. Who knew?

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2. 

   Redwoods Rambles

   The Santa Cruz Mountains are home to some of the most beautiful redwoods on earth. With wildflowers newly blooming and the region's signature banana slugs making an appearance, spring's a good time to hike among the big reds.

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3. 

   Strong and Rugged

   Do you like the strong rugged types? With all due respect to Big Sur, there’s another stretch of coastline that’s got it going on. Jenner and the Sonoma Coast have big views, beautiful hidden beaches, and a bevy of aquatic adventures.

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4. 
   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.

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5. 

   Swing Down to the Coast

   There's a reason people like hiking to high places in San Luis Obispo. This Central Coast adventureland is surrounded by ancient volcanoes, rolling green hills, and a dramatic coastline. Toss in some tree swings, and see SLO from new heights on any of these three hikes.

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6. 

   The Great Artdoors

   Next time you want to get your art fix, step outside for a hike. Here are three top places to see cool works of art in the great outdoors.

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7. 

   Roadside Attractions

   Some of the best scenery this time of year is found just off major thoroughfares where tranquil marshes and wetlands are traced by hiking and biking trails. The bonus: abundant birdlife is peaking right now. Here are three roadside attractions worth flocking to!

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8. 

   Hikes to Brunch

   Don't just go to brunch, hike to brunch! From East Bay to North Bay, here are three great hikes with tasty places to grab a bite en route or when you're finished. Trail mix just got an upgrade.

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9. 

   Graytest Hits

   Gray is the unofficial color of winter, which can be a good thing. Here are a few ways to put a little gray in your day.

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10. 

    Winter Beaches

    Beach-going in the summer? So cliché. Hitting the beach in winter? How avant-garde! Here are three sandy havens that are winter-wonderful, and dog-friendly too!

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11. 

    Tahoe Time

    It's home to the largest alpine lake in North America, some of the world’s best ski resorts, and off-the-beaten path places for finding fun or solitude. Tahoe in winter is true blue, and ready for you!

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12. 

    New Perspectives

    Start 2015 with a fresh point of view. From bluff strolling bliss to a secret mountain ridge ramble—and a tiny urban park in between—here are three ways to gain a new perspective this year.

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13. 

    12 Years of Adventure

    Twelve years ago we launched the first edition of Weekend Sherpa for the San Francisco Bay Area. Back then the song of summer was "SexyBack" by Justin Timberlake, and Talladega Nights was topping the box office. While change is inevitable, one thing for us remains the same: Our commitment to inspiring local adventures. There are no shortcuts, and we don't crowdsource. We've done a lot of exploring over the years to share the best stuff with you! Here are 12 of our favorite adventures.

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