For anyone who loves the outdoors, Northern California offers some of the most scenic and unforgettable excursions. You don’t even need to plan a whole weekend trip-- these four Anderson Honda recommended destinations make great day trips. It all depends on what you’re in the mood for.
Peaceful Serenity: Highway 1
It’s probably one of the most famous highways. It’s been featured in countless Hollywood movies, and Highway 1 lives up to its silver screen depiction. Driving down the highway is an exercise in stark contrasts: the vast Pacific ocean on one side and domineering cliffs on the other. The road is extremely narrow so it is best enjoyed as a passenger. It is certainly an experience that will not be forgotten.
Excitement: Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
It may seem odd that volcanoes exist in California, but the northern part of the state is quite different from its sister down south. Mt Lassen Volcanic Volcanic National Park isn’t open in the winter time because of snow, but in the summer visitors can check out steamy mud ditches and all sorts of ground activity-- the effects of hot water just beneath the surface.
A Workout: Hiking in Yosemite National Park
If exercise is what you crave, spend the day hiking the trails in Yosemite. Depending on your skill level, you can tackle the Half Dome Trail. The hike is almost 5,000 feet and at least seven miles up and back down. An interesting aspect of the Half Dome Trail is that part of the hike involves metal cables which climbers use to get up the last few hundred feet. Make sure you obtain a permit to hike the trail from the National Park Service first.
A Romantic Outing: Sonoma Valley
From gardens to wineries, Sonoma Valley has a number of romantic spots that are ideal for a day trip. The Quarryhill Botanical Garden, a hilly expanse of Asian trees and flowers is just north of San Francisco. If looking at lush vegetation makes you thirsty, head over to the many wineries in the area. Arrowood winery serves a gorgeous view along with its wines. Another stunning winery, Chateau St. Jean, looks as if it has been transported from France.
Whether you choose to walk in a scenic garden, enjoy a wine tasting, hike a mountain, marvel at a volcano or take in the Pacific you really can’t go wrong in Northern California. Just don’t forget your camera!
