Oh Yeah, Open Space!

Long before the tech industry started taking root in the South Bay, huge oaks, bays, alders, and sycamore trees dominated the landscape. Thanks to the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority, more than 16,000 acres of open space have been preserved for the public, with the newest preserve opening just two weeks ago. Here are three to explore!

Week: 07.07.2015
Regions: Northern CA

Coyote Calls

Hike Coyote Valley Open Space

Ahhh, that new open space smell! Saved from corporate development and stretching from Morgan Hill to south San Jose, Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve opened just a few weeks ago—shining with new redwood bridges, picnic areas, wildlife, wildflowers, and a terrific hiking and moun
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Adventure After Hours

Evening Adventures in Redding

Located just three hours northeast of San Francisco, Redding is cradled by Mount Shasta and Mount Lassen, with the Sacramento River running right through the city. And a little-known secret: Redding keeps the outdoor adventures going throughout summer nights! Here are the top 5 w
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Morgan Glory

Hike Rancho Canada del Oro Open Space

Set in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Morgan Hill's Rancho Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve is remote, wild, and delivers summit views that can make you feel like you're on top of the world. Reach sweeping vistas of the Diablo Range on a 5-mile (round-trip) loop hik
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Sierra Vista Surprise

Hike Sierra Vista Open Preserve

Urbanized landscape can sometimes blend beautifully with wide-open spaces. It’s all about perspective. And San Jose's Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve provides it! Get unobstructed views of the Santa Clara Valley and all the way across the bay on a 4.2-mile (round-trip) partial l
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  1. Purely Purisima

    Take a relaxing hike on the lower section of Purisiima Creek Trail in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve.

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  2. 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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  3. 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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  4. 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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  1. Been There, Dome That

    Surrounded by granite domes, craggy peaks, and miles of hiking trails, the High Sierra landscape of Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National Park is famous for good reason. For a truly grand view, take a short hike to bold—and bald (except for snow at times)—Lembert Dome.

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  2. Lookout Ahead!

    A 3.7-mile loop hike to Boucher Hill Fire Lookout in Palomar Mountain State Park reminds us just how stunningly beautiful are the mountains of this remote, lightly visited portion of northern San Diego County.

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  3. 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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  4. Strawberry Peak Lookout Hike

    Strawberry Sunday

    The 2.5-mile (round-trip) lollipop loop climb to the Strawberry Peak Fire Lookout near the town of Lake Arrowhead dishes up some delicious views.

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