Posted in Northern California
Attractions, Explore, Fun Adventures, National & State Parks, Nature, On The Water, Seasonal, Shopping, Sights & Landmarks, Winter December 27, 2022
6 Northern California Day Trips That Are Even Cooler During The Winter
There’s something magical about that first day of the year that feels like winter. The sky is full of clouds; trees have lost most of their fall leaves, and it’s usually cold enough to wear your winter clothing. This is the time of year to visit (or re-visit!) some special places in Northern California that are even prettier during the winter months. Check out our list, and then hop over to see some of our go-to winter travel essentials as you plan your next adventure.
The Sierra Nevada Mountain Range is beautiful year-round, but it becomes a winter wonderland when covered in snow. The North Lake Tahoe area gets some of the most snow in California. Seeing the forest pine trees covered in snow is truly breathtaking. It takes a little over an hour to drive from Truckee to South Lake Tahoe without any stops.
Truckee, CA 96161, USA
This probably goes without saying but if you want to have the option to hike or walk around the area, bring some extra socks in case snow gets in your boots. Pocket warmers are also a great idea while exploring the snow in Tahoe!
You can see this view while driving into South Lake Tahoe on Highway 50. You can also get a great view of Tahoe and Emerald Bay from Inspiration Point, which is on the drive south from Truckee.
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150, USA
Mount Shasta is beautiful in the summer but it’s even more amazing in the winter. To be clear, there’s the lake and then the mountain, and the neighboring town with the same name as the mountain. So you’ll be able to see Mount Shasta from the town of Mount Shasta.
Mount Shasta, Mt Shasta, CA 96067, USA
There are also a number of neighboring towns that are very charming and not overcrowded– McCloud, Weed, and Dunsmuir. You’ll find this mountain resort area is much less crowded than Lake Tahoe!
Winter is a great time to visit Point Reyes National Seashore. One of the big draws to the area is the lighthouse and the incredible ocean and beach views.
Point Reyes National Seashore, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956, USA
You’ll be amazed by the diverse landscape of this stunning ocean-front bucolic park.
Didn’t get what you wanted for the holidays? The start of the year is a great time to do some shopping. January usually sees less retail spending, which means less crowded outlets. We admit, it would be a very long day to visit all three of these outlet malls, but it’s possible to visit two in one day.
Vacaville Premium Outlets, 321 Nut Tree Rd, Vacaville, CA 95687, USA
Petaluma Village Premium Outlets, 2200 Petaluma Blvd N, Petaluma, CA 94952, USA
Livermore Outlets Drive, Livermore Outlets Dr, Pleasanton, CA 94551, USA
This coastal town is famous for its aquarium and landmarks. The town attracts more tourists during whale watching season, but the winter months miss that window so you can expect fewer crowds. Take this time to visit Cannery Row, Old Fisherman's Wharf, and Monterey Bay Aquarium – the major Monterey sites, perhaps with fewer crowds. Since Monterey never gets snow and very rarely gets freezing temperatures, you can do all the outdoor activities you would any other time of year. So plan to visit the beaches and hike the local trails.
Monterey, CA, USA
You’ll have to wear warm clothing but winter is still a great time to visit wine country in Northern California. Most vineyards have cozy indoor tasting rooms, and some have patios with space heaters. Don’t let the cold weather keep you from doing a wine tasting trip!
Sonoma, CA 95476, USA
Napa, CA, USA
What Northern California destination do you want to visit in the winter? Is there any typically warm weather place that should be seen in the winter, too? Tell us in the comments.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.