Independence Day is on the way—got plans? Here are some ideas to enjoy the freedom of the outdoors. Happy 4th of July!
Bike
High Roller: Ride the wide-open ridge-top-hugging Nimitz Way Trail above Berkeley in Tilden Regional Park.
Wild Ride: Mountain bikers can choose from 30 miles of well-marked trails—many with coastal views—at Wilder Ranch State Park.
Beach
Wave Hello: Spread a blanket at Half Moon Bay's newest little-known coastal playground—Wavecrest.
Sand Stroll: Walk for miles along dog-friendly Limantour Beach in Point Reyes, where stunning ocean vistas and abundant bird life unite.
Hike
It's Da Bon: With bright blue water, ospreys soaring overhead, and evergreens towering all around, a day hike around Mount Tam's Bon Tempe Lake could easily be mistaken for a hike in the Sierras.
Go Bananas: Count banana slugs and black-tailed deer while hiking through shaded canyons and redwood forests in the Peninsula's Huddart County Park.
Water
From Russia with Love: Float down a quiet and less-traveled section of the Russian River in an inflatable canoe—rope swings and swimming holes included. Dogs welcome, too.
Ride the Wind: Skim across the Bay at Alameda's beginner-friendly windsurf destination, Crown Beach. Rent gear onsite or join a beginner lesson.
Fireworks
Blue Light: Catch the biggest 4th of July fireworks display this side of the Mississippi in Lake Tahoe. Grab a good spot on one of the south shore beaches to watch the fiery glory reflect on the lake.
Hot Duet: Fireworks and the Oakland East Bay Symphony team up tomorrow night to give a free 90-minute performance on Richmond's waterfront at Craneway Pavillion.