All in Southern CA

1. 

   Secret Lakes

   Nothing against powerboats or jet skis, but there’s much to be said for lakes where we can go for tranquility. Maybe a little paddling, a little fishing. See some cool birds. Definitely relax. We’ve got three in mind, each distinct, each ideal for a quiet summer day … sans water skis.

   VIEW
2. 

   Midsummer Classics

   Swimsuit for water holes, shoes for coastal hikes, a fleece for overnighting in a mountain cabin ... what's on your summer checklist? Here are some classic ways to soak in and soak up the rest of summer.

   VIEW
3. 

   Summer Swimming Holes

   When the heat is on, lower the thermostat! Seek out hidden pools where you can swim, splash, picnic, and relax. Naturally, we’re talking au naturel—swimming holes in beautiful natural settings. Where the cool get cool!

   VIEW
4. 
   Sponsored

   2025-03-12

   From Alpine Wildflowers to Turquoise Coves

   North Lake Tahoe is where nature, culture, and authentic experiences let you connect to something deeper. Spring is an ode to the region’s harmonious dual nature, where you can mix

   View
5. 

   Coastal View Hikes

   Folks pay a fortune for ocean views, but the best ones belong to all of us. And they’re free! Here are three hikes that reveal some of the best of our amazing coastline, ranging from dramatic perches to rocky shores.

   VIEW
6. 

   Keep Your Cool

   Play things cool on these adventures through redwoods, to a waterfall, along a coast-hugging trail of the Channel Islands, and to a hike-in cabin in a canyon. Oh yeah, wave the adventure flag!

   VIEW
7. 

   Fourth and Out!

   Need to clear your head this Independence Day? Liberate yourself with hikes to nice heights or easygoing strolls for wandering and pondering. Go fourth and get out!

   VIEW
8. 

   Woodsy Digs

   A cozy cabin or lodge in the mountains right next to some of SoCal's most legendary hiking trails—sounds great, right? We’ve got three woodsy digs that put you right where you want to be: cool and high and ready for serious hiking … or stellar relaxing!

   VIEW
9. 

   Summer Refresher

   Know what's cool? These watery adventures! From hot springs to beach lounging, hitting the refresh button hasn't been easier.

   VIEW
10. 

    Can-Do Canyons

    The rugged topography of Southern California creates all sorts of magical folds that are enticing to explore, though sometimes “canyon” may be a bit of a misnomer. For these hikes, don’t think Grand; think beautiful—and close to home!

    VIEW
11. 

    You Wildin'!

    Beautiful views meet big birds, blubbery seals, breaching whales, and playful dolphins on these three Southern California day-outings. Amazing close encounters!

    VIEW
12. 

    Secrets of Pauma Valley

    Spread beneath the Palomar Mountains, the hills and vales of Pauma Valley harbor some of SoCal’s best-kept secrets. Explore hiking trails both rugged and lush, a historic river, and a couple of top-notch wineries where you can raise a glass to your new discoveries.

    VIEW
13. 

    Long May You Adventure

    Waterfalls, wildflowers, redwoods, Pacific coastline, mountains, and hidden hot springs ... yeah, it's good to be in California. See any of these natural wonders this long weekend on these SoCal hikes, bike rides, and explorations.

    VIEW
14. 

    California Time Travel

    Make like Marty McFly and go back in time. Although there is no Biff, you can visit an Oceanside mission, a Julian gold mine, and a Riverside state park devoted to citrus. Sweet!

    VIEW
15. 
    Sponsored

    2025-03-12

    From Alpine Wildflowers to Turquoise Coves

    North Lake Tahoe is where nature, culture, and authentic experiences let you connect to something deeper. Spring is an ode to the region’s harmonious dual nature, where you can mix

    View
16. 

    Forest Bathing

    The Japanese art of forest bathing is so simple: Find peace and inner calm by going to the woods and reconnecting with nature. We’ve scouted three of our favorite settings for therapeutic walks in some magnificent woods. Go slow. Breathe!

    VIEW
17. 

    Late Bloomers

    SoCal's wildflower season took a rain check in early spring, quite literally, due to late-season showers. But better late than never. Flower power is in action now, if you know where to go.

    VIEW
18. 

    Upstate Adventure

    Have you been to Northern California? We mean wayyy up north. The Redding area is surrounded by mountains, rivers, waterfalls, lakes, bald eagles, and trails galore. This spring, have an upstate of mind!

    VIEW
19. 

    After-Work Hikes

    When the days get longer, the workdays get a bit shorter, don’t they? Boot down the computer, boot up your feet, and hit these trails for a quick workout hike.

    VIEW
20. 

    Sierra Hot Springs

    Maybe it's the water, maybe it's the views. Whatever it is, these natural hot springs in the Eastern Sierra will leave you feeling sumptuously soaked and refreshingly renewed. 100%!

    VIEW
21. 

    Spring for Wildflowers and Waterfalls

    With winter's rains and warm weather followed by splashes of more rain, SoCal's hiking trails are super-charged for spring. Here's a roundup of hikes with wildflowers, waterfalls, and wonderful views. Spring it on!

    VIEW
22. 

    What to Do Outdoors this Easter Weekend

    Ready to find more color than an easter egg hunt this weekend? From desert to sea to downtown LA, make a rainbow connection with adventure.

    VIEW