Residents of California are known for their active lifestyles. With such an emphasis on fitness, health, organic food and great weather, Northern California is an ideal location for outdoor activities. Whether it’s the sand, surf or woods you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it in Northern California. Here's a Anderson Honda list of the best outdoor activities in Northern California.
Surfing is a very popular activity in California. Some of the best surfing spots are located in Northern California. Whether you’re a novice or a veteran of the sport, surfing can be fun and a great source of exercise. Some of the best locations to surf in Northern California include Half Moon Bay, which also hosts the Mavericks surf contest; Black Sand Beach in Petrolia; Doran Beach in Bodega Bay; and Stone Lagoon in Orick.
If you surfing isn’t quite your thing, you may be more interested in touring an old Gold Rush-era town. Sierra City, a small town in Northern California, is a great day trip full of history and hiking. You can take a tour of the Kentucky Mine or hike one of the many trails near town, which is located along the North Yuba River and under the Sierra Buttes.
A few other great hiking spots in Northern California include Horsetail Falls, which can be found by hiking a trail that runs along Pyramid Creek; and Uvas Canyon County Park, which offers a hidden surprise – the Basin Falls, Upper Falls and the 30-foot Black Rock Falls.
Biking is also a great outdoor activity in Northern California. You’ll want to make sure you bike through the Sacramento River Trail. This biking trail will lead you to the Sundial Bridge, one of the most unusual structures in Northern California. You may also catch a glimpse of salmon spawning below the bridge.
After a long day of hiking, biking or both, you may find yourself yearning for a relaxing evening in a hot tub at the hotel. Instead, why not enjoy a dip in a hot spring, nature’s version of the hot tub? There are many hot spring locations in Northern California, including spots in Bridgeport, Sierraville, Big Bend and Mammoth Lakes.
Another great outdoor activity to do in Northern California is sea kayaking. What better way to see the beautiful Northern California coastline, view wildlife in its natural habitat and get a little exercise while you’re at it? Some of the best sea kayaking trips can be had on the Mendocino Coast, Point Reyes National Seashore and the Sonoma Coast.
