Pitch Perfect Hikes

Hike. Camp. How about hike + camp? Whether you just want to go on a fabulously scenic day hike or bike ride, or would prefer to pitch a tent and add camping to your adventure, these three Bay Area spots have got options! Take your pick, and be ready to pitch!

Week: 02.22.2023
Regions: Northern CA

The Beauty of Black Mountain

Hike to the Summit of Black Mountain in the South Bay

Hike Monte Bello Opens Space to Black Mountain
Hike Monte Bello Open Space Preserve Black Mountain
Rising 2,800 feet over the Peninsula’s Monte Bello Open Space Preserve, Black Mountain—the inspiration behind Mountain View’s name—quietly stands watch over the South Bay. It’s also one of the few local summits with its own backpacking camp.
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Feather in Your Cap!

Hike to Eagle Peak on Mount Diablo in the East Bay

Two hikers walk a hiking trail to Eagle Peak at Mount Diablo State Park
Two hikers are taking in the view of mountains and green rolling hills on a trail at Mount Diablo State Park
Sure, the main summit of Mount Diablo offers one of the best views in the state, but if you’d rather hike than drive to a summit, lace up your boots for the mountain’s spectacular—and less-traveled—Eagle Peak.
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Santa Maria Is Magical

Bike to Santa Maria Beach in Point Reyes National Seashore

Hike or bike in to Santa Maria Beach
Biker on a trail to Santa Maria Beach in Point Reyes National Seashore
Bike in to Santa Maria Beach in Point Reyes National Seashore
Biker on the wide open trail to Santa Maria Beach in Point Reyes National Seashore
Ready to find a beach to call your own? Make a visit to Santa Maria Beach in Point Reyes. What makes Santa Maria so quiet and peaceful? The 3-mile bike (or hike) in!
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Trending Stories NorCal

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  1. Redwoods Star Power

    Go on a 5-mile (round-trip) redwoods hike that starts from Chabot’s Moon Gate entrance and through Dr. Aurelia Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, then visit the Chabot Space and Science Center for a rooftop telescope star viewing or a space

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  2. Bike to Aardvark Beach

    Two wheels, a fresh sea breeze, birds, and a beach stop: now that's a California bike ride. Pack a beach blanket and set out on this 16-mile out-and-back pedal along the San Francisco Bay to Aardvark Beach.

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  3. Cheers to Chimney

    If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but it packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring.

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  4. Woman on Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes at Death Valley National Park

    Starry Night & Dark Sky Adventures

    You don’t have to stay out all that late to experience eminent stargazing at Death Valley National Park. The park's been given the highest ranking of darkness by the International Dark Sky Association. From ranger-led to self-guided adventures, here are a few amazing ways to witness the mesmerizing night sky at Death Valley.

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Trending Stories SoCal

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  1. Garland in Bloom

    Carmel Valley is known for its quaint wineries and scenic hiking trails. Enjoy both on this 3.75-mile loop through Garland Ranch Regional Park.

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  2. Sponsored

    No Limits Family Trip: Reno Tahoe

    What if your next family getaway didn’t come with a set agenda—just the freedom to go where the day takes you? Find yourselves in Reno Tahoe, a land of no limits and plenty of outdoor bounty.

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  3. Can We Get a Whoop Whoop!

    City, mountain, and ocean views all in one hike? Whoop whoop! It’s no surprise the the Kenter Fire Road and Whoop-de-Doos Trail (a combo of fire road and singletrack) is a favorite among local mountain bikers and hikers alike.

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  4. Eat, Explore, Repeat: Point Reyes Station

    It’s small and laid-back, but Point Reyes Station is a standout gateway to Point Reyes National Seashore. Fresh food, cool culture, and an unfussy vibe are part of the draw.

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