Northern California Adventure Holiday Destinations and Activities!
Northern California Adventure Holidays and Outdoor Vacation Ideas

Northern California often gets overlooked when planning an outdoor vacation on the west coast. It seems like 'NoCal' is always in the shadow of popular California destinations like Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego and Palm Springs!
Northern California is where adventure really begins! Look at our page below as we zero in on some Northern California adventure vacation destinations for families, couples and enthusiasts.
Northern California Adventure Holiday - Things to See and Do
Of course, we can only scratch the surface of what to see and do in Northern California. Hardcore adventurers can find thrills pretty much everywhere and there are some great soft adventure activities that all can enjoy. Things like:
- Panning for Gold
- Biking and hiking through Redwood forests and National Parks
- Gentle whitewater rafting in the Trinity Mountains
- Exploring historic towns and museums
And to help you experience the very best of Northern California, we've made a list of some "must see" adventure destinations:
Pacific Coast Highway: One of the best adventures in Northern California is to take a drive up the coast on the scenic and sometimes remote road known as the Pacific Coast Highway. You'll find fantastic scenery and adventure in Northern California's coastal towns.
The Lost Coast: Find black sand beaches and excellent backpacking and hiking trails. The "Lost Coast Trail" is very popular with hardcore hikers especially on long weekends. Still it’s a great area to get away from the crowds and see wildlife up close like sea lions and birds.
Avenue of Giants: Here you can see and experience Redwood trees that are over 2000 years old. Located a few miles outside of Garberville, this is the best place to see redwood trees in California. It’s also very easy to drive into the park with your car.
Humboldt Redwoods State Park: Biking or hiking - you'll find a great selection of trails and paths that cater to all levels of adventurers.
Mendocino: This is a fantastic little town with nearby adventures that include canoeing and cycling. With the Big River just outside of town, you'll find local outfitters that rent kayaks, canoes and bicycles.
Lake Tahoe: Without a doubt, this is THE top ski destination in California. There are more than 200 ski slopes to choose from, with lots of downhill and cross country ski runs.
In the summer months you can hike the Tahoe Rim Trail that circles the entire lake. You can also take adventure cruises on the crystal clear waters as well as kayak, canoe or just relax on the beaches in the area.
Mount Shasta: Not only can you drive most of the way up the mountain, you can also climb, hike and bike around the base. There are a number of alpine lakes and scenic vistas to explore here throughout the summer.
In the winter, you can learn how to ski at the Mt. Shasta Board & Ski Park. Easy runs make this the place to try skiing for the first time.
Northern California Adventure Holiday - Cabin and Lodges
Looking for that perfect wilderness cabin in Northern California. There are plenty of choices all along the coast through to the Sierra Nevada Highlands.
And since most of Northern California consists of small, out of the way communities, you're almost guaranteed to find lodging that meets your needs and budget.
Northern California Adventure Holiday - Best Time to Travel
A Northern California adventure holiday can be done at any time of year. Places like Lake Tahoe and Mount Shasta are busy in both summer and winter months. And the Pacific Coast Highway showcases spectacular scenery no matter what time of year!
A great time to travel is when the kids have gone back to school and the summer rush is over. Northern California really shines in September and October.
The crowds have gone and the weather is still pleasant enough to get outdoors to bike, hike, and even surf!
Click here for information on activities, fees and permits in California National Parks!
Northern California Adventure Travel - How Far?
To help you plan your adventure getaway to Northern California look at our mileage chart below:
Distance from San Francisco to Mendocino: 170 Miles / 4 Hours (Hwy 1)
Distance from San Francisco to Crescent City: 290 Miles / 5 Hours
Distance from San Francisco to Lake Tahoe: 190 Miles / 3.5 Hours
Distance from Sacramento to Lake Tahoe: 130 Miles / 2 Hours
Distance from San Francisco to Fort Bragg: 140 Miles / 2 Hours
Distance from San Francisco to Avenue of Giants: 230 Miles / 4 Hours
Distance from San Francisco to Redwood National Park: 320 Miles / 5 Hours
A Northern California Adventure Holiday! It's a Vacation you'll never Forget!
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