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Northern California Hidden Gems (Travel Recs)
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items Discover Northern California’s hidden gems with these off-the-beaten-path destinations that most travelers miss. From secret redwood groves and rugged Lost Coast beaches to gold-rush towns, alpine lakes, and boutique wineries, this curated list is pe...
Sections
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Coastal Redwoods & Wine Country Loop
Mountain Lakes & Gold Country Loop
Coastal Redwoods & Wine Country Loop
Skip the crowded redwood parks! This grove in Anderson Valley is quiet, peaceful, and filled with towering giants. Perfect for a picnic or a little shady hike.
Hendy Woods State Park
California’s best-kept wine secret. Tiny tasting rooms, family-run vineyards, and incredible pinot noir without Napa’s tourist lines.
Anderson Valley | Wineries, Vineyards, Restaurants & Lodging
A windswept coastal stretch with sea caves, blowholes, and a lighthouse you can climb. Fewer crowds, bigger views.
Point Arena-Stornetta Public Lands
Pedal along old train tracks on a custom railbike through redwood forests and across estuaries. Fun, quirky, and so unique.
Pudding Creek Railbikes
Black sand beaches, tidepools, and rugged coastline that feels untouched. Stay at the Inn of the Lost Coast for unreal ocean views.
Shelter Cove on The Lost Coast
Tiny river town near Arcata with a beloved local brewery. Live music, craft beer, and that laid back NorCal vibe.
Paskenta Mad River Brewing
A hidden gem where you can sip wine, hang out with horses, and sleep under the stars all away from Napa’s main drag.
Rustridge Vineyard & Winery & B&B
Mountain Lakes & Gold Country Loop
Gold-rush charm meets bohemian vibes. Victorian houses, art galleries, cozy inns, and a lively small-town feel.
Nevada City, CA | Official Website
A stunning drive carved along the river with waterfalls, railroad bridges, and hiking trails. Perfect in spring or fall.
The Feather River Canyon | Plumas County California
Remote alpine lakes, granite peaks, and miles of solitude. Try the Four Lakes Loop if you’re ready for an adventure.
Trinity Alps Wilderness
Once called the “eighth wonder of the world” by Teddy Roosevelt. This 129-ft waterfall gushes straight out of volcanic rock. Unreal in person.
McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park
Rolling lavender fields with Mt. Shasta as the backdrop. Open in summer, it’s as magical as it sounds.
Mt. Shasta Lavender Farms | Montague CA
Tiny gold-rush town with a quirky café and the historic Hotel Jeffery. Feels like stepping back in time.
Coulterville, CA Lodging, Restaurants and Things to Do
A family-run winery B&B tucked near Kings Canyon’s quieter entrance. Wine tastings, mountain views, and peaceful vibes.
Sequoia View Vineyard - Home