Winter Wanders and Ponders

Happy New Year! Take a little time out this winter for walks of wonders, and wonderings. Here are some peaceful hikes to do in beautiful nature respites.

Week: 01.01.2025
Regions: Southern CA

Ideal in Idyllwild

Hike Idyllwild South Loop Trail in Idyllwild Park

Woman standing on hiking trail in Idyllwild, overlooking sunset and mountain scenery
The 2.2-mile Idyllwild South Loop in Idyllwild Park is short on miles but big in every other way possible. With epic panoramic vistas, serene forests, and a big climb in elevation, this trail packs a lot into its shorter length.
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Magic Trip

Fly Nonstop to Telluride this Winter

winter in telluride
winter in telluride
christmas in telluride
skiing in telluride
Ready for a magic trip? It doesn’t get more magical than a luxurious winter vacation where you’re surrounded by enchanting 14,000-foot mountains in the heart of the Colorado Rockies. Telluride is a storybook winter escape.
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Enchanted in Chantry

Hike a Quieter Trail at Chantry Flat in Los Angeles

Chantry Flat is one of the most popular hiking areas in LA, but the 5.3-mile (round-trip) Hoegees Campground via Upper and Lower Winter Creek Loop Trail proves you can find peace and quiet anywhere, even in busy Los Angeles.
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City Looper

Hike the La Sierra Trail Loop in Chino Hills

Located right in the middle of a city, the La Sierra Trail Loop in Chino Hills still manages to feel like an escape to nature, packing in 395 feet of elevation gain to get your blood flowing and your legs moving.
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Trending Stories NorCal

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  1. A man takes a break at a temple spot on a hike at Dragon Mountain in Milptas

    Dragon Quest

    The newly reopened, 4-mile out-and-back hike at Dragon Mountain in Milpitas mixes the physical with the spiritual for a serene hiking experience.

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  2. 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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  3. 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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  4. 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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Trending Stories SoCal

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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. Hike Cherry Canyon Park

    Cherry on Top

    How do you reach the Ultimate Destination in LA County? Cherry Canyon Park has a 2.5-mile out-and-back hike with a vista point called, well, the Ultimate Destination.

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