All in Northern CA
The Outdoors for Everyone
Since 2006 our credo has been "the outdoors for everyone.” This was meant to inspire outdoor adventures for anybody, regardless of experience level, age, income, gender, or race.
VIEWOut You Go
As parks continue to re-open, going outdoors is making a comeback. And we're pretty excited. Here are some hikes in various counties across Northern California to get you inspired. As always, check official websites for information and updates before you go, since statuses may change. Enjoy your local trails!
VIEWEasing Back Into the Outdoors
(Dipping pinky toe in...) We're easing into the outdoors again. Here's a list of some hikes (and bike rides) that are open as of this week. Stay safe, enjoy your parks, and let's keep outside open!
VIEW![]()
SponsoredWarm 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
ViewShortlist These National Parks
We love our national parks. So we created a shortlist of the top parks to visit, and the best hikes to do, once they re-open. We can't wait to get back!
VIEWNew Rules of the Trail
As parks around California begin to re-open, we came up with tips for being responsible on your outdoor adventures. Let’s do our part so we can all keep enjoying the parks!
VIEWThe Outdoors We're Craving
We're sharing what adventures we're most craving and plan to do as soon as the time is right
VIEWHow 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.
VIEWSocial Distance Hikes and Bike Rides
Social Distance Hikes and Bike Rides (with important ways for safety during coronavirus)
VIEWHikes to Keep Your Calm
From redwoods to rolling hills and seaside bluffs, these three hikes are great for the soul
VIEWAfternoon Delight
Go on a leisurely afternoon hike with beaches, birds, benches and beautiful views.
VIEWShort 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.
VIEWRussian River Rediscovered
Here's your Russian River guide to redwood hikes, bike rides to wineries, and sunsets by the sea.
VIEWLove 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!
VIEW![]()
SponsoredWarm 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
ViewWinter 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.
VIEWWinter Wildlife Wonders
Elephant seals, birds of all feathers, combine a wildlife hike and a beer for a wild weekend!
VIEWDesert Dream Trip
Joshua Tree National Park is stunning in winter. Our top recommendations on exploring this dreamy desertscape in two days.
VIEWWhere 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.
VIEWEasy Does It
Ease into 2020 by trying something new, from a new wine country hike to a new trail in the South Bay.
VIEWNew Year Peak Hikes
Kick off the decade with a classic peak hike in the Bay Area. Cheers to these views!
VIEWTop 10 2019 Adventures (Readers Favorites)
The 2019 outdoor adventures Weekend Sherpa readers most liked in the San Francisco Bay Area and Northern California.
VIEW
Warm Up to Winter in Reno Tahoe
Winter's Best Activities in Reno Tahoe
Your Inbox to the Outdoors
Stay up to date with our weekly recommendations on where to explore locally in California.
Trending Stories NorCal
View all Stories![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.
View![]()
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.
View![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.
View![]()
SponsoredWarm 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
View
Trending Stories SoCal
View all Stories![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.
View![]()
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!) ...
View![]()
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.
ViewCherry 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.
View
