Check us out on the outbound
For trip planning resources, stories, and other adventure tricks and tips - check us out on The Outbound Collective HERE
Hike over to our "completed" section to see trip reports for past excursions. Hop to "saves" for future trips ITW will lead and to find ideas for planning your own weekend getaway.
local legends
castle rock state park
Castle Rock is easily accessible from SCU, located past Los Gatos in the Santa Cruz Mountains. There are over 32 miles of hiking trails, so look at a map when you arrive to plan your best hiking route!
More information: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=538
alamere falls, Point reyes
Alamere Falls is on the beach in Point Reyes National Seashore. A great spot for dolphin sightings! The hike to Alamere falls is ~8.4 miles total starting at the Palomarin Trailhead. The trail from the parking lot connects with the Coast Trail, which you follow to the falls. When you reach the coast, the trail becomes narrow and steep. The trail will lead you to the beach - walk down a little further for the falls!
Helpful link: https://www.theoutbound.com/san-francisco/hiking/hike-to-alamere-falls
heavenly mountain resort
Go skiing for the weekend at Heavenly Mountain in South Lake Tahoe! Get an Airbnb and have apres-ski at Azul, a great Mexican restaurant at the foot of the mountain.
http://www.skiheavenly.com/
MOUNT TAM, MARIN COUNTY
Mount Tam is a favorite. We recommend parking at Pan Toll station, taking the Steep Ravine trail down to Stinson Beach, enjoying lunch at Parkside Cafe, hanging on the beach - and then looping back to the top of Mount Tam for a beautiful sunset view! Make sure your car has plenty of gas before heading up to Mount Tam, and cell service is known to be spotty.
https://www.theoutbound.com/san-francisco/hiking/hike-to-the-summit-of-mt-tamalpais
china cove, point lobos
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a wonderful spot for viewing marine life (seals, pups, otters, birds, whales, and more) year round. A great flat walk along the ocean around Carmel, and a great beach to relax on after. Stop by Carmel for lunch on your way home! https://www.theoutbound.com/san-francisco/hiking/hike-to-a-hidden-coastal-paradise