South Bay Outdoor Bounties

While we all still cling to summer, the truth is fall's bounty is at our doorstep. So step outside and greet the new season in South Bay style with a classic hike, an urban bike ride, and some time at the ranch ....

Week: 09.15.2021
Regions: Northern CA

Bike Ride to Bountiful

Bike the Guadalupe River Trail in San Jose and see parks, sculptures, gardens, and wetlands

Woman with her bike at entering a garden along Guadalupe River Trail in San Jose
Sculpture of two kids pointing at the sky near the San Jose Airport with planes flying overhead
Woman sitting on a dock overlooking the water and marshland in San Jose along the Guadalupe River Trail
Biker on Guadalupe River Trail in San Jose
The Guadalupe River Trail in San Jose makes an excellent bike ride with minimal hills, gardens, parks, and easy access to food, art, and entertainment along the entire 10-mile stretch of trail.
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Sea Change

Plan a Relaxing Autumn Visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium

penguins exhibit at Monterey Bay Aquarium
sea otters exhibit at Monterey Bay Aquarium
jellyfish exhibit at Monterey Bay Aquarium
exhibit at Monterey Bay Aquarium
Right in time for the balmy fall days, the crowds have left and Monterey Bay Aquarium is at its shoulder season best. Fewer people means relaxing with more room to roam and enjoy the animals, exhibits, and nearby outdoors for biking, hiking, and beaches.
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Hiking Forecast: Windy

Hike and Watch a Sunset at Windy Hill Preserve in the South Bay

Woman hiking at Windy Hill Preserve
Fall colors on your mind? Put Windy Hill Preserve in the South Bay on your hiking list. We recommend a 6.2-mile loop that starts and finishes at its namesake summit, where sunsets dazzle.
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Hike and Seek

Hike McClellan Ranch Preserve Near Cupertino

Hike McClellan Ranch Preserve near Cupertino
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This 2.1-mile hike in McClellan Ranch Preserve near downtown Cupertino has quiet nature, historic ranch buildings, wildlife-watching, fall color, and Stevens Creek.
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Trending Stories NorCal

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  1. Muir Woods Night Tour

    Thousands of people flock to Muir Woods every year, yet only a few see it at night, when this beloved park is experienced in a whole new light. The Muir Woods Night Tour happens on the last Friday of every month through October.

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  2. Slide Ranch Marin

    Slide On Over

    Marin's Slide Ranch has a popular neighbor in the Muir Beach Overlook. But don’t overlook Slide! This open-to-the-public nonprofit organization sits on 134 acres of coastline and is filled with animals, Pacific scenery, and an adjacent hiking trail.

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  3. Sponsored

    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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  4. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

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Trending Stories SoCal

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  1. Waterfall Hunter

    If you ask a local in Reno about one of the best hiking trails in town, odds are high they’ll point you to Hunter Creek Falls. It’s a year-round favorite, but it absolutely shines in spring, when desert peach wildflowers make a splash—and so does the marquee waterfall.

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  2. Wapama Wows

    Hetch Hetchy can be overlooked in Yosemite National Park because of its more remote location and limited facilities. But this is where you’ll also find one of the best day hikes in the park: Wapama Falls.

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  3. Bike the Coastal Trail to Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay

    Ride and Seek

    Oceanside breezes, beautiful beaches, a car-free pathway for biking, and beer at the end: You’re on a roll! The San Mateo Coast was made for beach hopping and beer tasting … and it all goes down smooth as part of an 8-mile out-and-back bike ride.

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  4. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

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