It’s been an exhaustingly long week, and all you want to do is relax outdoors and get some peace and quiet. Luckily for you, Northern California has plenty of serene, tranquil spots that are perfect for unwinding and rejuvenating after an arduous work week. Five of them are below. Take a look.
- Etna
David Berry/Flickr These Old West-style buildings along Highway 3 are a small taste of the rustic charm you’ll find in Etna. This small town is less than a mile across, and it’s located at the foot of Marble Mountain. Head up the mountain for a hike, then stop by the charming Etna for some peaceful unwinding.
- Twain Harte
A Silly Person/Flickr This little town gets its name from two different authors: Mark Twain and Bret Harte. Both lived in these parts during a portion of their lives. If these renowned authors can find inspiration here, then you know you will too.
- Lake Tahoe
Mike Bonkowski/Flickr Parts of Lake Tahoe are definitely filled with tourists, but you’ll absolutely find serene trails and scenic hikes that will help you take your mind off the stress of the work week. Whether you prefer kayaking, climbing, fishing, or swimming, there’s a relaxing outdoor activity here for you.
- Burney Falls
Wenjie Qiao/Flickr 100 million gallons of water wash over this 129 foot drop every day. Make the trip to McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, and you’ll see this gorgeous waterfall, along with many other memorable sights.
- Sunol Regional Wilderness Area
Charlie Day/Flickr At this beautiful park, you’ll get to admire the scenery without having to share the trail with tons of other hikers. There are even spots where you can hop in the water, but be warned that it does get chilly! Unlike many hikes in Northern California, Sunol has minimal shade from trees, so be sure to wear sunscreen and a hat.
Want more relaxing destinations in Northern California? These 9 secret spots are all nestled among our state’s gorgeous natural wonders.
David Berry/Flickr
These Old West-style buildings along Highway 3 are a small taste of the rustic charm you’ll find in Etna. This small town is less than a mile across, and it’s located at the foot of Marble Mountain. Head up the mountain for a hike, then stop by the charming Etna for some peaceful unwinding.
A Silly Person/Flickr
This little town gets its name from two different authors: Mark Twain and Bret Harte. Both lived in these parts during a portion of their lives. If these renowned authors can find inspiration here, then you know you will too.
Mike Bonkowski/Flickr
Parts of Lake Tahoe are definitely filled with tourists, but you’ll absolutely find serene trails and scenic hikes that will help you take your mind off the stress of the work week. Whether you prefer kayaking, climbing, fishing, or swimming, there’s a relaxing outdoor activity here for you.
Wenjie Qiao/Flickr
100 million gallons of water wash over this 129 foot drop every day. Make the trip to McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, and you’ll see this gorgeous waterfall, along with many other memorable sights.
Charlie Day/Flickr
At this beautiful park, you’ll get to admire the scenery without having to share the trail with tons of other hikers. There are even spots where you can hop in the water, but be warned that it does get chilly! Unlike many hikes in Northern California, Sunol has minimal shade from trees, so be sure to wear sunscreen and a hat.
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