In the Golden State, we know summertime means hot weather and lots of sunshine. Soak in all that beautiful sunshine (while it’s still here!) by getting outside to enjoy some of the many summertime activities in this state. From Shasta Lake to the Central Valley, and every charming town in between, opportunities for outdoor fun are almost never-ending. With so many enjoyable things to do and places to explore in Northern California during the summertime, you can fill your weekends with fun.
1. Attend One Of The Many Summer Festivals And Fairs
The summer is filled with festivals! From small-town festivals to the massive California State Fair at Cal Expo, summertime is a great time to explore NorCal towns and cities through community festivals. It’s fun to learn more about various areas of Northern California and what those areas are known for producing.
2. Rent A Houseboat On Shasta Lake
Whether you're spending one night or seven, renting a houseboat is the best way to see Shasta Lake. This massive blue reservoir is known as one of the premier house boating bodies of water in the country. You can rent basic models or luxury houseboats that come with every amenity one could imagine.
3. Float The River
Float the Feather River, the Yuba River, the American River, the Sacramento River, and many others! No matter where you’re located in Northern California, there are lazy portions of these rivers that are popular floating spots in the summertime. Travel with a group and bring at least two vehicles– one to park at the intended end spot of the float and one to take everyone in your group to the launch point. Bring a hat or sunglasses, drinks and snacks in a waterproof bag, and, of course, an inner tube.
4. Explore High Mountain Lakes
During the warmer months, you can access Northern California's many high mountain lakes that are covered in feet of snow throughout the rest of the year. These high mountain lakes often offer respite from the hot valley temperatures. Heart Lake is just one of many mountain lakes accessible in the summertime.
5. Hike The Trinity Alps
The Trinity Alps Wilderness covers over a half million acres of untouched mountainous land, with 600 miles of trails. Most of the year the high-elevation areas are covered with snow and inaccessible to hikers. Seize your chance to see this stunning landscape while the weather is warm.
6. Explore Northern California’s Caverns
Hot summer days are a good time to explore some of the otherworldly caverns in Northern California because the temperature is always cool that far below the surface. Mercer Caverns in Murphys offers tours year-round, but the constant 55-degree temperature in the caves feels great after exploring Calaveras County in the summer heat.
7. Enjoy Wineries And Beer Gardens With Outdoor Seating
One of the great things about hot days is that the evenings are comfortably warm! Wineries are typically open during business hours, so on warm days, visit your favorite Northern California wineries that have outdoor seating. On hot days, venture out in the evening to drink and dine al fresco at your favorite local brewery. These places are usually open late.
8. Spend A Day At Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is an oasis full of beauty, fun, and education right in San Francisco. This sprawling urban park is home to the iconic Japanese Tea Garden, the Conservatory of Flowers, the de Young Museum, and the California Academy of Sciences. Start on the east side and make your way west through the park, seeing as much as possible. Within the park are many trails and lakes that provide some lovely scenery. Stop by the bison paddock to see massive American bison grazing in a meadow. And end your day at the park with a meal at Beach Chalet with a view of Ocean Beach.
9. Spend A Day At Sycamore Pool In Chico
Located in Bidwell Park, Sycamore Pool is fed by Big Chico Creek, and a fun summertime activity. Bring a towel and sit under the trees while enjoying this beautiful park and pool.
10. Visit Some Of NorCal’s Best Swimming Holes
There are more swimming holes in Northern California than we can count! It seems there are always "new" ones becoming public information. Candy Rock in Avery is one such spot. Until recently, only locals knew about this beautiful swimming hole. Natural swimming holes often have very chilly water, which makes them the perfect place to cool off on those triple-digit NorCal summer days.
11. Spend A Day At William Land Park In Sacramento
In the heart of Sacramento is the massive William Land Regional Park. The park is home to a golf course, picnic areas, Fairytale Town, the Sacramento Zoo, a jogging path, and two lakes. You can easily spend an entire day entertaining the entire family at this beautiful, green park.
12. Shop The Freshest Produce From Local Fruit Stands
We're so lucky to live in California where so much of the nation's fresh produce comes from. Produce stands are common sights for many Northern Californians. While these produce stands are a year-round delight, the summer season brings an unparalleled abundance. Some of the most popular stands have grown into markets and stores.
13. Escape The Heat In San Francisco
When it's just too hot where you live, take a trip to San Francisco. It's true that the city has many "micro-climates" but overall it ranges from 55-65 degrees, on average, and rarely gets hot. Wander around North Beach, explore the Presidio, and stop by the Ferry Building on the Embarcadero.
14. Rent A Boat On The Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta
Enjoy those Delta breezes from a boat to make a hot day more tolerable! The Delta is a place you MUST experience at least once from a boat. The Delta, lined with the most charming little towns and dotted with over-water restaurants, is a fun place to spend the day. You won't believe you're still in California while boating around the bayou-like Delta.
What are your favorite things to do in Northern California during the summer? Share your fun ideas on our Facebook Page or in the comments.
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