Hike to New Heights

Some of Northern California's best summits are just waiting to be hiked! Whether you point your compass north, south, or east—here are three great peaks that'll give you a fresh perspective … and killer views!

Week: 06.19.2015
Regions: Northern CA

Bald Is Beautiful

Hike Bald Hill in Marin

Just when you think you've seen Mount Tam's best stuff—here comes another Tamtastic summit hike. The north side of Tam is home to five sparkling lakes, all of which have lovely hiking trails. But trails from Phoenix Lake rise … to a brilliant vista known as Bald Hill. And this hi
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British Columbia's Mountain Playground

Hike, Bike and Adventure in Whistler

Think California has it all? You should see our nearby neighbor to the north! British Columbia, Canada, is one of the world’s best—and most beautiful—base camps for adventure. You can enjoy all kinds of outdoor pursuits in one of BC’s flagship destinations: Whistler. The winter s
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Vollmer Victory

Hike to Vollmer Peak in Tilden Regional Park

Inspiration's just the start of this 6.8-mile (round-trip) hike up the highest peak in the Berkeley Hills. Located at the southern end of Tilden Regional Park, Vollmer Peak rises 1,905 feet. The diverse trail to the summit begins at popular Inspiration Point and travels through p
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Jump for Judah!

Mt Judah Hike in Tahoe Donner

Tackle Tahoe's deservedly popular Mt. Judah loop this summer and you'll reach new heights in more ways than one. The 4.6-mile wonderland hike starts at 7,000 feet on the famed Pacific Crest Trail along Donner Pass Drive. And things just keep looking up from step one. First, ascen
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  1. Cinematic Sonoma

    Longer days. Golden light. Wildflowers in bloom. It’s the perfect moment to plan your spring escape to Sonoma for the Sonoma International Film Festival, March 25–29. No fuss. No sprawl. Just films, friends, fresh air, and that unmistakable Sonoma glow.

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  2. Hike Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve

    Mellow in the Marsh

    Beach, birds, ice plant popping purple flowers: That’s a hiking slam dunk! Hike about 2 miles at Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve using their easy to navigate (well-signed) Sequoia Audubon Trail.

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  3. A man is looking through his binoculars at sunrise at the Bayland Nature Preserve in Palo Alto

    Baylands Bird & Art Loop

    Combine an outdoor art walk and wildlife sightings at the Baylands Nature Preserve in Palo Alto. This 5-mile loop through Byxbee Park and the Emily Renzel Wetlands features striking installations by artists Peter Richards and Michael Oppenheimer—where the landscape itself becomes part of the canvas.

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  4. 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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  1. 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

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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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