Hiker on Grays Peak trail at Big Bear Lakes in Southern California

Fall Color Hikes and Apple Cider Bonuses

Fall colors, apple cider donuts, did we mention seasonal beer, too? Combine them all this fall with these fantastic harvest hikes filled with apple orchards, peaks, mountain views, and tasty treats. Bounti-fall times ahead.

Week: 10.12.2021
Regions: Southern CA

Apple of Your Eye

Hike and see fall colors at Oak Glen Preserve near Yucaipa

Hiker amid trees at Oak Glen Preserve in Yucaipa Southern California
sunflowers on a trail at Oak Glen Preserve near Yucaipa
HIkers' boots amid fallen apples on the ground at Oak Glen Preserve near Yucaipa
Hiker in a redwood grove at Oak Glen Preserve near Yucaipa in Oak Glen Southern California
That fall feeling is definitely in the air and on display at the Oak Glen Preserve. Apple orchards and colorful leaves are a bonus, as are the apple cider donuts and slushies you can enjoy post-hike.
Read the full story

Volcan High Five!

Hike the Volcan Mountain Five Oaks Loop near Julian in San Diego County

Person peering through telescope at peak of Volcan Mountain in San Diego County near Julian
Hikers on a trail at Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve near Julian in San Diego County
Hiker looking at the ruins of the Old Volcan Mountain Observatory Outpost near Julian San Diego County
Hikers on the trail at Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve in San Diego County
The moderate 5.5-mile round-trip Volcan Mountain/Five Oaks loop hike in the Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve near Julian transports you from lush farmland to a summit with panoramic views. And the hard cider post-hike bonus...
Read the full story

Big Bear Hug

Hike to Grays Peak in Big Bear and Visit Oktoberfest

Hike on Grays Peak Trail in Big Bear California
Sign for Grays Peak Trail in Big Bear Southern California
Fall colors on Grays Peak Trail in Big Bear Lakes Southern California
Hiker on Grays Peak Trail amid fall foliage in Big Bear Lakes
Grays Peak in Big Bear is fall-loaded with vibrant colors. This 6.8-mile (round-trip) hike in the San Bernardino National Forest provides all the fall feels, with crisp mountain air and beautiful churning leaves.
Read the full story

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. A man takes a break at a temple spot on a hike at Dragon Mountain in Milptas

    Dragon Quest

    The newly reopened, 4-mile out-and-back hike at Dragon Mountain in Milpitas mixes the physical with the spiritual for a serene hiking experience.

    View

  2. H is for Hawk Hill

    After a nearly year-long closure, Hawk Hill in the legendary Marin Headlands recently emerged with a glow-up. Thank the hearty TLC from the National Park Service. This Golden Gate National Recreation Area gem now has a new trail along with revamped spaces for taking in timeless, grand views.

    View
  3. Mike Zakowski (aka Mike the Baker) standing in front of his wood-fire oven at the Sonoma Valley Farmers' Market

    NEW! Walkin' and Talkin': Break Bread, Go On a Panoramic Hike

    What’s a world-traveling, medal-winning baker’s favorite local hike? Weekend Sherpa co-founder Brad Day caught up with Mike Zakowski (aka Mike the Baker) at Sonoma’s Friday farmers' market, where his wood-fired loaves draw loyal crowds. Between bites of fresh-baked bread, they talk baking, travel, and why Sonoma's Overlook Trail is one of his favorite quick, panoramic hikes.

    View
  4. Sponsored

    Warm Up to Winter in Reno Tahoe

    2026 is just getting started, but there’s one place already rising to the top as the best for adventure and relaxation: Reno Tahoe. The awe—and ahhhs—begin as soon as you arrive. G

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. People on ice learning to curl at Hollywood Curling

    You Go, Curl!

    Hollywood Curling’s Learn to Curl classes make the perfect setting for newcomers. Take the ice, and friendly curling instructors will teach you the basics.

    View

  2. Eat, Sleep, Beach, Repeat

    For an ultra-relaxing getaway where you can sit back and soak in some nature and nurture, head to Mendocino and follow this eat, beach, sleep, repeat itinerary (you won't regret it!) ...

    View

  3. This Skunk Doesn’t Stink!

    All aboard for a ride through history—and through air scented with redwood, dewy ferns, forest-fresh breeze, and a bonus snack and beverage bar, fire pit, and short hike. The World-Famous Skunk Train delivers in every category: scenery, greenery, and towering redwoods.

    View
  4. Hike Cherry Canyon Park

    Cherry on Top

    How do you reach the Ultimate Destination in LA County? Cherry Canyon Park has a 2.5-mile out-and-back hike with a vista point called, well, the Ultimate Destination.

    View