15 Out Of This World Summer Day Trips To Take In Northern California
We all have our go-to favorite destinations in Northern California, but with all the sights to see and things to do, there’s nothing quite like discovering something new in this beautiful and fun region. This summer, try something new. Here’s a list of some of the most fun adventures we could possibly come up with. We hope there’s something new on the list you haven’t experienced before.
Make this summer one to remember with these 15 Day Trip Ideas.
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This unique spot is one of newest national natural landmarks in Northern California, and the only way to see it is to take a short boat ride across Lake Shasta. The Lake Shasta Caverns National Natural Landmark was preserved in 2012, but the caverns themselves are at least 200 million years old. Eons ago, the caverns were formed by underground water that has since drained away. They are made entirely of limestone.
Today, thousands of visitors every year board boats like these for a short drive across the lake to tour the caverns, which are then accessed via a private road. It's definitely an experience to remember!
Learn More Here
A little while ago, we compiled a great list of lesser known swimming holes in the area. If you’re looking for some neat places to swim that aren’t your local — and likely crowded — pool, then these lesser-known swimming spots in Northern California are perfect. Take the day off, gather the family and dive into an unforgettable day of fun in the sun. You'll be blown away by the natural beauty of these places. Learn More Here
Locomotive travel can bring us back to a time when we took the time to watch what was outside our window and simply enjoy the journey. If you’re looking to remember what it’s like to enjoy the journey and tour Northern California in a unique way—or you just want to give the family a special experience they’ll never forget—then traveling Northern California’s scenic railways are the perfect way to do just that. We recently compiled a list of all historic train rides you can take in Northern California. We think you'll get a kick out of what we found. Learn More Here
4. Sample Ice Cream from all the Best Places In Northern California
Google Maps
Northern Californians love our ice cream, and almost every city or town has a great dessert parlor to call their own. We compiled a list of some top ice cream joints and organized them into a convenient little road trip for you! Now that the weather is finally getting warmer, there’s nothing that hits the spot like one of these delicious ice cream parlors. Your mouths will be watering just reading about them! Learn More Here
You don't have to be an extreme mountaineer to love nature. It's just as much fun to go for a short walk in the woods as it is to go on a long hike. All throughout the state you’ll find gorgeous loops and short overlook trails that only take a little bit of time to complete—and they’re just as stunning as the more rigorous hikes Northern California is known for. We recently discovered 11 short trails that pack a lot of scenery into a smaller package. Learn More Here
From waterfront bungalows to high altitude mountain yurts, Northern California has it all. If you like rustic stays, consider looking into one of the cabins we recently added to our master list of places to stay. Learn More Here
Pictured Here: 23240 Highway 1, Marshall, CA 94940 · Phone: 866-63-NICKS
7. Eat Your Way Through This Taco Trail
Google Maps
There’s not much that’s better than a delicious taco! Hearty meat, fresh ingredients, and just the right amount of spice: is your mouth watering yet? Here in Northern California, we’ve got plenty of awesome taco restaurants, each with its own unique take on this culinary classic. While it would be impossible to list each and every great taco spot in the Northern California region, we’ve created a "mini road trip" that highlights a handful of the best taco eateries around. Learn More Here
We've all seen pictures of the magnificent redwoods, but those static images really don't do them justice. In order to really understand the awe-inspiring nature of the redwoods, you have to breath in the misty rainforest air, listen to the wind in the trees, and stand right next to one of these gentle giants. Learn More Here
The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens are located in Fort Bragg between California's Highway One and the Pacific Ocean. They are comprised of 47 acres of canyons, wetlands, coastal bluffs, and a closed-cone pine forest in addition to the beautiful flowers. Learn More Here
10. Visit all the Covered Bridges In Northern California by Following this Road Trip Itinerary
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Northern California is known for its scenic beauty, but there’s not much that can top a covered bridge when it comes to the juxtaposition of man made creations and nature. The old fashioned bridges are a sight to behold and should definitely be seen in person Learn More Here
In a recent article, we highlighted all the places in Northern California where you can go camping without needing reservations. With reservations often being accepted nearly a year in advance, sometimes your favorite spots get snatched up before you can even plan your vacation dates. Try out these new campgrounds and live a little more spontaneously. Learn More Here
12. See Northern California’s Most Iconic Waterfalls
Burney Falls are considered by many the most beautiful falls in California, if not the world. Unlike Yosemite Falls, Vernal Falls, or Nevada Falls there isn't just one mighty stream of water that tumbles over rocks. Instead, the waterfall is a multitude of streams that seep out of mossy rocks and craggy crevices. The water cascades down the lush green growth into a pool of turquoise blue water, capped off by a brilliant rainbow. It's one of the most popular things to see in Northern California,
but the experience is well worth braving the crowds.
Learn More Here
13. Go On A Hidden Beaches Road Trip
Google Maps
Is there anything better than relaxing on the beach during the height of summer? Not much, except for maybe this road trip that we came up with that takes you to all the most remote beaches along the coast of Northern California. Learn More Here
There are a lot of fabulous and mind-boggling sites in Northern California, but there is only one like this unusual and altogether quirky home. Located in Humboldt County, this unique home is known as the "One Log House" and has been a popular attraction since it was built in the 1940s. Learn More Here
15. Slip down a Natural Water Slide
Little Backbone Creek is located near Shasta Lake, which is hugely popular among boating enthusiasts when the temperatures are warm. You’ll hike about 20 minutes up a creek that drains into the lake to find these natural waterslides. Learn more here
What did you think of our list of summer day trips? What fun excursions would you add to the list? Let us know by commenting below or on Facebook today!
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Jill is a freelance writer from a small Northern California town and lives in the Sierra Nevada mountains. If you have an idea for an Only In Northern California story, email her at jsanford@onlyinyourstate.com.
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