Walnut Creek, California

The Helen Putnam Northern Loop is a scenic hiking trail in Petaluma, California, offering a peaceful outdoor experience with breathtaking views and natural charm. This trail is perfect for hikers seeking a blend of gentle exercise and stunning landscapes. Trail Highlights: Length & Di...

Hike half a mile to this beautiful, secluded beach.  There are high cliffs with a steep staircase down to the beach.  The beach has wonderful rock formations on one side.  It is a great place to watch the sunset or bring a picnic.  A great place for a beach day if you are looking for something le...

This is a popular trail that has beach access to Cowell Ranch Beach.  Along the trail, there is a steep staircase that goes down to the beach.  The trail also features fields, a bridge, and beautiful views of California's rugged coastline.  This trail is paved in some parts, and can also be biked...

The Helen Putnam Inner Loop is a scenic and relatively short hiking trail located in Petaluma, California. This loop offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and accessibility. This trail is ideal for hikers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a shorter adventure with stunning vistas. T...

A 216-acre park, Helen Putnam offers 9 trails that are relatively short but can be combined however you wish. Go 2 miles or 10 miles. Loop in and out, up or around. I take a different route every time I hike here. For a good 4.8-mile hike, begin at the southwest corner, where the parking lot and...

Nicasio is a quaint town just inland of the more popular coastal town of Point Reyes. It's most known for it's wine country, rolling hills, and the home of Skywalker Ranch, George Lucas's getaway home. Most visitors of this area either pass right on through for Point Reyes or use it's scenic road...

Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve has many beginner to intermediate hiking trails.  Deer Hollow Farm Trail Loop is a hiking trail for beginners, families, or anyone wanting to go on a short hike with nice views of the bay. The trail passes by a farm and deer can often be seen wandering arou...

Black Mountain via PG&E, Quarry and Black Mountain Trail is an out-and-back trail where you may see wildflowers located near Cupertino, California.

Corridor Ridge Loop Trail is a loop trail where you may see wildflowers located near Glen Ellen, California.

Sonoma Ridge Trail is a beautiful 9.2-mile out-and-back hike located near Glen Ellen, California. This hike is moderately difficult, with about 1955 feet in elevation change. 95% of the trail is covered in forest shade. Important Notes:Bikes and Horses are permitted on the trails. Dogs are NOT p...

There is a museum in "The House of Happy Walls" which Mrs. London built in redwood grove find park information, exhibits and a small sales area there. A nearby trail leads to Jack London’s grave and to the remains of "Wolf House," London’s dream house which was destroyed by fire in 1913. The par...

This hike is best done in the late fall, winter, and spring so that the creek is running and the hills are green. Starting at the preserve parking lot, the first half of the hike is predominantly downhill. At the main trailhead, start in the direction of the Stevens Creek Nature Trail, as told by...

This hike can be done during any season, but for the creek to be running and for more comfortable temperatures, it is best to go on a cool winter or spring day. Starting at the preserve parking lot, take the Stevens Creek nature trail, allowing you to witness spectacular views of a large, forest...

Embark on a captivating journey through the diverse landscapes of Point Reyes National Seashore with the Meadow Trail and Sky Trail to Coast Trail loop. This approximately 10.8-mile hike offers adventurers a blend of lush forests, open meadows, and breathtaking coastal vistas, making it a must-...

Permit and Trail Camp Info To stay overnight in Point Reyes, you must stay at one of the Trail Camps.   Camping anywhere else in the park is not allowed.    Permits for the Trail Camps can be booked up to 6 months in advance.  If you are looking to go on a weekend, then you'll want to start loo...

Russian Ridge offers a great place to jump on the trail and in the right season, see some of the best wildflowers blooming. On top of that, you get access to amazing views from the ridge. Once you get your parking space, jump on the Ridge Trail and start gaining a little elevation while you head...