Getting Loopy!

Ever feel like you're going in circles? Maybe it's just the change of season. Go with the flow on any of these five less traveled—and geographically unique—loop hikes. Here's to feeling loopy!

Week: 09.21.2022
Regions: Southern CA

The Holey Spirit

Hike Hole in the Wall Rings Loop in the Mojave Desert

hiker going up a ring cable in Hole in the Wall Rings Loop Trail in the Mojave Desert
Hiker heading up to hike through a canyon in Hole in the Wall Rings Loop in Mojave Desert
Hiker going up between canyon walls at hole in the wall canyon Mojave desert
Hiker coming out of a canyon at Hole in the Wall Rings Loop Trail Mojave Desert
Hole-in-the-Wall Rings Loop Trail serves up the best parts of the Mojave Desert, all in a 1.3-mile loop: vista views, rare geological features, and even a climb through a slot canyon.
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Just in Time for Tahoe!

Fall Adventure Getaway to North Lake Tahoe

woman riding a bike in North Lake Tahoe
woman on laptop North Lake Tahoe
man hiking North Lake Tahoe
couple hiking North Lake Tahoe
Shorter days, cooler nights, and plenty of room to roam: Fall is amazing in North Lake Tahoe! You’re just in time to enjoy North Lake Tahoe’s autumn splendor among trails less crowded.
Autumn's Best in North Lake Tahoe

That's Just Wildwood!

Hike Wildwood Canyon Overlook Trail Near Camarillo

Two Hikers at Wildwood Canyon Overlook Trail in Camarillo there are big mountain views
Hikers at the Camarillo Wildwood Canyon Overlook Trail in Ventura County
Hikers taking in the big mountain panoramic views at Wildwood Canyon Overlook Trail in Ventura County
The farm-to-table agricultural landscape around Camarillo delights with vineyards, lush canyons, and craggy mountains. For a hike combining a trifecta of these views, head to Wildwood Canyon Overlook Trail.
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Simi's Secret Loop

Hike the hidden Woodridge Loop Trail at Long Canyon in Simi Valley

Hiker on a wide open dirt trail at Long Canyon in Simi Valley
Hiker on the Woodridge Loop at Long Canyon in Simi Valley
Hiker on rolling hillside hiking trail at Long Canyon in Simi Valley
Hiker taking a break sitting on a bench overlooking rolling green hills and a winding hiking trail at Long Canyon in Simi Valley
The secluded 2.8-mile Woodridge Loop at Long Canyon in Simi Valley rewards with rolling hills, grassy meadows, unique rock formations, and some of the most magical valley views in Ventura County.
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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...
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Hidden Horsethief + Highpoint Brewing

Hike at Horsethief Canyon Park in San Dimas

Hiker along a wide trail overlooking the San Gabriels at Horsethief Canyon in San Dimas
Hiker walking under a tree canopy at Horsethief Canyon Park in San Dimas
HIker walking a wide trail at Horsethief Canyon Park in San Dimas
Person sitting at a bench at a highpoint overlooking the San Gabriels at Horsethief Canyon Park in San Dimas
Hike a 2.5-mile loop at hidden Horesethief Canyon Park in San Dimas, then head for some beers at nearby Highpoint Brewing.
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    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

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  2. 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.

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  3. Big Burdell!

    If you’re gonna go big on a hike, make it at Marin County’s biggest open space preserve, Mount Burdell. And go to the summit. You’ll be sharing the trail with grazing cows, seasonal poppies, and beautiful birds on this 5-mile (round-trip) adventure.

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  4. 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.

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  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.

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  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!) ...

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  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.

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  4. A woman standing at the pond's edge at Ernest B Debs Regional Park in Los Angeles. Trees are making reflections on the pond.

    Urban Oasis Loop

    Home to the city’s Audubon Center, Ernest E. Debs' 282-acre park features a robust network of hiking trails and surprising wildlife diversity. More than 140 bird species have been spotted here. Birdwatcher or not, this 2.5-mile route makes for a gorgeous outing.

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