All in Northern CA

1. 

   How to #OptInside

   Getting a little stir crazy? Covid-19 has unfortunately shut down a lot of open space. What to do? We have a few ways to bring the great outdoors indoors. We've called it #OptInside. Check out the list of easy things to do indoors.

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2. 

   Social Distance Hikes and Bike Rides

   Social Distance Hikes and Bike Rides (with important ways for safety during coronavirus)

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3. 

   Hikes to Keep Your Calm

   From redwoods to rolling hills and seaside bluffs, these three hikes are great for the soul

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4. 
   Sponsored

   2025-12-31

   New Year, New Goal: IRONMAN 70.3 Northern California

   2026 is off and running! And swimming. And biking. Don't get left behind! Commit to one of the upcoming year’s most exciting endurance events—IRONMAN 70.3 Northern California in Redding.

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5. 

   Afternoon Delight

   Go on a leisurely afternoon hike with beaches, birds, benches and beautiful views.

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6. 

   Short Hikes, Cool Views

   Who says good views require big hikes? These three tame trails in the East Bay offer visual rewards without adding extra miles.

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7. 

   Russian River Rediscovered

   Here's your Russian River guide to redwood hikes, bike rides to wineries, and sunsets by the sea.

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8. 

   Love in the Great Outdoors

   Some of the best dates happen in the outdoors. Whale watching, wine tasting, walking among murals or down to a restored lighthouse … whatever your outdoor loves may be, here are some options!

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9. 

   Winter Hikes in Napa

   Before hitting the big Cabs, hit the big views! The cooler months are a fantastic time to do any of these three vista hikes that lead to huge panoramas.

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10. 

    Winter Wildlife Wonders

    Elephant seals, birds of all feathers, combine a wildlife hike and a beer for a wild weekend!

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11. 

    Desert Dream Trip

    Joshua Tree National Park is stunning in winter. Our top recommendations on exploring this dreamy desertscape in two days.

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12. 

    Where to Whale Watch: 3 Top Spots

    Whale hello there! Here are three of the top spots for combining hikes and wine tasting with amazing vantages for spying gray whales.

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13. 

    Easy Does It

    Ease into 2020 by trying something new, from a new wine country hike to a new trail in the South Bay.

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14. 

    New Year Peak Hikes

    Kick off the decade with a classic peak hike in the Bay Area. Cheers to these views!

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15. 
    Sponsored

    2025-12-31

    New Year, New Goal: IRONMAN 70.3 Northern California

    2026 is off and running! And swimming. And biking. Don't get left behind! Commit to one of the upcoming year’s most exciting endurance events—IRONMAN 70.3 Northern California in Redding.

    View
16. 

    Top 10 2019 Adventures (Readers Favorites)

    The 2019 outdoor adventures Weekend Sherpa readers most liked in the San Francisco Bay Area and Northern California.

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17. 

    Just in Time for the Holidays

    Get into the holiday spirit on these classic Bay Area outings that are like a yule log for your soul.

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18. 

    The Coast Is Clear

    Go hike the hills, paddle to a lighthouse, and explore coastal caves near the classic beach town of Avila Beach.

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19. 

    Griswolding Outdoors!

    Rule #1 this holiday season: Getting outdoors is a great way to clear the air, and the head, after too much spiked eggnog and turkey talk. And hell-yeah, bring the whole family—you’re all in this together, merry and bright! Here are three ways to hike, drink, and birdsong your way to holiday bliss.

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20. 

    Reservoir Hikes

    If cabin fever has you thirsting for the outdoors, these three hikes are short (3 miles or less) and go straight to the source with excellent views of reservoirs.

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21. 

    Beaches & Hikes for the Weekend

    After all that turkey, pie, and political discussion, it’s time to take a break outside. We have just the ticket—from a dog-friendly beach in Marin to a hidden bench overlooking the San Mateo Coast, be thankful for the great outdoors.

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22. 

    Thanksgiving Hikes

    There’s lots to be thankful for this season, including our great outdoors, with fall colors on full display. Ready for a turkey trot? From the bounties of Briones to the thrills of a volcano, and a lesser-known trail on protected ranch land, here are three East Bay hikes prime for the season.

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