The Pinot Express

Zipline in San Luis Obispo County

Some wine flights are just more exciting than others. Add some ho-ho-holy smokes to your next sip and swirl with one of wine country's biggest thrills: zip-lining high above the vineyards on the flanks of the Santa Lucia Mountains. Margarita Adventures (as in Santa Margarita, not the drink) will fly you across five epic ziplines in Paso Robles' historic Santa Margarita Ranch. Meet your guide, catch a shuttle out to the ranch, and after driving up to a high point with wide views, get geared up before taking your first zip—a doozey nicknamed "The Renegade." Soar 1,200 feet across a grass valley into an oak forest. After conquering that, "The Woodlander," "Hilltopper," and "Archway" seem like child's play in the most fun way, including getting a good running start for one. Then comes the grand finale: the "Pinot Express," aka the mother lode, reached by a quarter-mile switchback hike up a hill. Zoom 1,800 feet back to earth. Then pile back into the shuttle for some wine tasting at Ancient Peaks Winery, where the reds are really tasty. No buzz kill here. Zippity-sippity—do!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Gentle Giants

    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

    View
  2. A Hike to the Past

    This 5.2-mile redwoods hike through El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space combines a relaxing stroll with unique geologic formations and historical artifacts.

    View
  3. Golden Mile

    Dubbed the Golden Mile, this car-free stretch of road in Golden Gate Park features rotating art installations of murals, sculptures, and abundant bright yellow Adirondack chairs for kicking back to relax. See Naga, the recent new addition here, an impressive sea serpent art installation at Golden Gate Park's Rainbow

    View
  4. Sponsored

    Fall Coastal Hikes Guide

    Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST) is ready to fill your fall with bluffside trails, tranquil beaches, whale watching, a haunted distillery, and seasonal sweet treats.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Montebello Mission

    Adorable animal feeding, peaceful bird watching, and delicious beer drinking? Hello, Montebello! This northeastern city has fantastic views of the hulking San Gabriels and a variety of green spaces, not to mention great spots for beer(s)!

    View
  2. Sponsored

    Chase Fall Colors & Family Fun in Reno Tahoe

    Ready to Reno? We’re so with you! Reno Tahoe is the ultimate urban basecamp for gathering family and friends for all kinds of fall fun and festivities.

    View
  3. Welcome to the Ice Age

    Only in LA can you stumble upon a lake of bubbling black goo right in the middle of the city—complete with a life-size family of mammoths frozen in time. Take a whiff and you’ll catch the unmistakable scent of asphalt: Yep, you’ve made it to the La Brea Tar Pits & Museum.

    View
  4. Mulholland's Most Majestic

    Take a leisurely drive along Mulholland Drive to discover beautiful urban scenery and unexpected wild beauty, right in the middle of the city. 

    View