14 Perfect Things To Do In Northern California If You’re Feeling Adventurous
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Jill S.
Author
In Northern California, we are lucky to have seasons that change throughout the year, but that doesn’t mean we let the weather get in the way of our adventures. Whether we prefer the coast, the mountains, or somewhere in between, here are just a few of the fun adventures to go on right here in this beautiful state.
Located near Mount Shasta, Castle Lake is just one of many alpine lakes that make Northern California great. It's located west of the mountain in Siskiyou County.
Pictured here is Bailey Cove Campground, a popular place to lay your head for the night while exploring this area. It is a lovely forested camping area operated by the Forest Service. There's a boat ramp down to Lake Shasta in this spot as well.
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This small city by the sea offers amazing sightseeing and opportunities for exploration. This photo was taken at Trinidad State Beach, an amazing getaway for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers.
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For just a $1 suggested donation to rent the snowshoes, you can join a ranger led winter hike through this incredible National Park. Be sure to call in advance to see what time and availability will coincide with your visit: Please call 530-595-6133 or 6132.
Whether you are an experienced rider or a first timer, horseback riding along the Pacific Coast is a magical experience. There are a few companies that will take you riding along the beach, including Ross Ranch in Elk and Ricochet Ridge Ranch in Fort Bragg.
No matter what part of Highway 1 you pull off to the side of, the Northern California waves and cliffs are dramatic and lovely. The entirety of the coastline in California is part of the California Coastal National Monument.
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These limber campers are posing at the Lake Siskiyou camp site, but with endless opportunities for outdoor exploration in this area, there's so many places you can take your practice outside! Those of us lucky to live close to nature can even do some stretching right in our very own backyards.
There's really nothing like seeing the sun slowly sink below the horizon while simultaneously taking in an ocean view. East coasters just don't know what they are missing when it comes to a California sun set!
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Sea urchins, hermit crabs, anemones, barnacles, kelp, starfish, and more creature and plants that dwell in Northern California's amazing tide pools will delight and entertain you for hours. Great tide pools to visit include Duxbury Reef, Gerstle Cove Tidepools, MacKerricher State Park, el Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, Fort Ross State Historic Park, MacKerricher State Park, Patrick’s Point State Park, Russian Gulch State Park, Salt Point State Park, and Sonoma Coast State Beach.
Another way to enjoy the scenery in the coastal destinations mentioned above is to feel the squish of sand between your toes. Dip them in the chilly water only if you dare!
The Granite Creek and Stuart Fork trails are two of the most popular hikes through this area, but even pulling off to the side of the road and taking in this magnificent river is worth it!
Also well loved by hikers, this magnificent biking area is a must see for any adventurous Northern California mountain biker! The Paradise Royale Loop is one of the most popular mountain biking routes here. You won't be disappointed!
No matter your age or the size of the fish you can catch, everyone can agree that relaxing by the water's edge with a pole in hand is a great way to enjoy a Northern California evening. Some of our favorite places to drop a line in include Lake Del Valle, Lake Almanor, the American River, and Lake Camanche.
No matter where you wind up when you are feeling adventurous in Northern California you are bound to have a great time. Where was your last adventure in this great part of the state? Be sure to add to the list on Facebook if we missed your favorite place!
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