All in Southern CA

1. 

   Cinematic Coast

   Mendocino County has been the location for more than 50 movies, including classics like James Dean’s “East of Eden.” It’s not hard to see why, with its small-town charms, redwood forests, blue-green bays, rocky headlands, and sublime beaches (with hidden stairways!). Here are some easy ways to make Mendocino the backdrop of your next great escape.

   VIEW
2. 

   Happy Ho-LA-Days

   Who's talking turkey? Not us. We're talking the great outdoors! Whether you want to sweat first on some stairways, then indulge in the pie, or are looking for casual hikes the whole family can enjoy, here are a few great ways to enjoy the holidays in Los Angeles. County

   VIEW
3. 

   Hooray for These Holiday Hikes

   We're not talking turkey. We're talking what to do before or after the main event. Grab your favorite folks and head out for an autumn adventure, including some where you can bring your dog. Check out these hikes for some holiday spice.

   VIEW
4. 
   Sponsored

   2025-06-11

   Tram to Cool Treks

   Elevate your fun, getting whisked from palm trees to alpine wilderness on the world’s largest rotating tramcar. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway transports you up and away on a 2.5-mile scenic route from the desert floor to the refreshing wilderness of Mount San Jacinto State Park.

   View
5. 

   Reopened and Ready

   After Tropical Storm Hilary, some of our national parks in desert locations were closed due to intense damage. The good news is they've recently re-opened, and fall brings cooler temps. From less-known canyons to perfect peaks for sunset, here are three unique desert hiking experiences open to you! --

   VIEW
6. 

   Made for Fall Adventures

   Some hikes are best paired with fall. From fewer people to colorful foliage and formations, here are three great parks for autumn-matic consideration.

   VIEW
7. 

   Hikes for Halloween Spirit(s)

   Spirits and ghosts and phantoms, oh my ... this Halloween weekend, go on any of these five boo-tiful hikes with hints of hauntings and creepy crawly ambience.

   VIEW
8. 

   Falling for Paso

   Take a trip to real California this fall … the California you might not know but truly should! Paso Robles's wine country, beautiful backroads, and unfussy outdoors is an absolute revelation. Relish the bucolic landscapes, rolling vineyards, pristine lakes, rivers, and waterfalls, and spirited small town brimming with cuisine, art, and culture. Just a few hours from San Francisco or Los Angeles, here’s a road trip itinerary to see this hidden gem.

   VIEW
9. 

   Monterey's Many Hidden Gems

   Monterey is not only stunningly beautiful by nature, it's an historical and ecological cornerstone of California. Experience its less-known state parks, hidden gem hikes, a coastal trail to a lighthouse, marvelous food and culture, and the brilliance of Monterey Bay Aquarium's newest exhibit and special guided tours.

   VIEW
10. 

    Oktober Hikes

    Something about Oktober just brings out the beer in us. But maybe do a hike first. Here are three fantastic hikes with nearby breweries for a little seasonal Prost!

    VIEW
11. 

    This Hidden Beach ...

    The term "secret beach" is a bit of a relative one for SoCal. Still, there are a few you can escape to and find a bit of serenity. From a hidden gem to secret strands and pocket sands, don't let others beach you to it!

    VIEW
12. 

    On This Harvest Moon

    It's glow time! Here are some amazing places to watch the sun set and enjoy the Harvest moon rising as you make your way back. Bring a flashlight or headlamp for extra measure ... and shine on.

    VIEW
13. 

    Sunsets and Night Hikes

    Sundown on summer is here ... so say goodbye to the season as it sinks below the horizon on these classic outings ideal for sunsets and night hikes. Fall's morning glory is up next!

    VIEW
14. 

    Secret Stairways of LA

    We always hear it: gotta get in those steps. A way to do it? Take the stairs! But not just any stairs. Do the ones that lead to nature, tranquility, and hidden gems. Here are three stairway hikes worth stepping up—and down—to!

    VIEW
15. 
    Sponsored

    2025-06-11

    Tram to Cool Treks

    Elevate your fun, getting whisked from palm trees to alpine wilderness on the world’s largest rotating tramcar. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway transports you up and away on a 2.5-mile scenic route from the desert floor to the refreshing wilderness of Mount San Jacinto State Park.

    View
16. 

    Autumn Inspiration

    Let us be the first to wish you Happy Halloween. Too soon? We agree! Autumn’s barely touching down, so go gently into the season with these adventures offering inspiring views for a change-in-season perspective. Costume not included!

    VIEW
17. 

    The Secluded Sierra

    Travel to the very northern part of the Sierra Nevada and discover a vast wilderness with only three traffic lights and more nature than people. Plumas County is a tranquil haven of high mountain recreation lakes, hiking and biking trails galore, plentiful small-town charms, and a national park that's still a hidden treasure.

    VIEW
18. 

    Now Open: These Camping Adventures

    Better late than never. Winter's historic precipitation meant delays in some backcountry and high Sierra camping adventures due to road repairs and too much snow! Here are a few places you can go now, some recently re-opened (and first-come, first-served!).

    VIEW
19. 

    Tahoe Easy Rollers

    How do you escape the crowds at Tahoe? Try a bike ride along one of the region’s beautiful (car-free!) bike trails paralleling the Truckee River and Lake Tahoe. Here are some great rides (that can also be hikes or walks) for getting a little space.

    VIEW
20. 

    Lovin' Summer

    Back to school may be coming soon, but summer's not over. Here are a few places in SoCal (and some points a bit beyond) for getting in some last minute beach hikes, camping, kayaking adventures, and cool urban walks.

    VIEW
21. 

    Canyon Cooldowns

    SoCal may be one of the coolest places to live, but keeping your cool in summer isn’t always easy. Here are three canyon adventures that offer a little refreshment.

    VIEW
22. 

    Alpining

    Set in the Cuyamaca Mountains of San Diego County, Alpine is famous for its government-designated “best climate in the US” status. Here are some great ways to explore Alpine—from summit hikes to lakes and beers!

    VIEW