12 Fun And Exciting Things To Do Outside Of Yosemite National Park

If you're looking for fun and exciting things to do outside of Yosemite National Park, you've come to the right place! From trekking through ancient Redwood forests to whitewater rafting, there are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. We've compiled a list of twelve amazing outdoor adventures to explore near Yosemite National Park, so you can make the most of your time outside and have an unforgettable experience. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or just looking to relax and explore the great outdoors, these activities are sure to provide an unforgettable adventure. So get ready to explore and make some amazing memories with these 12 fun and exciting things to do outside of Yosemite National Park!

Lake Tahoe

If you’re looking for a leisurely outdoor activity, take a stroll around the lake. The shoreline of Lake Tahoe is stunning, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. You can rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard to explore the lake from the water. The lake also offers excellent fishing, with plenty of trout, bass, and pike to be caught.

Hiking is also a popular activity around Lake Tahoe. There are plenty of trails to choose from, ranging from beginner-friendly jaunts to strenuous multi-day treks. The Tahoe Rim Trail is a must-see for any outdoor enthusiast. This 165-mile loop takes you around the entire lake, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Biking is another great way to explore the area. The Flume Trail is an iconic ride along the east shore of the lake. This 14-mile trail offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. For those looking for something a bit more challenging, the Tahoe Mountain Trails offer a variety of trails for all skill levels.

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, try one of the many rock climbing routes around Lake Tahoe. There are plenty of routes to choose from, ranging from beginner-friendly sport climbing to advanced multi-pitch trad climbing. The area also offers excellent mountaineering opportunities, with iconic peaks like Mount Tallac and Freel Peak offering stunning views of the lake.

No visit to Lake Tahoe is complete without a visit to a beach. Sand Harbor and Zephyr Cove are two of the most popular spots. Here, you can relax and take in the stunning views of the lake. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also rent a boat or jet ski for a thrilling day on the water.

Santa Cruz

• Visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Spend a day at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the oldest surviving amusement park in California. Take a ride on the wooden Giant Dipper roller coaster, or take a spin on the Looff Carousel. With over 35 rides, food stands, and arcades, there is something for everyone.
• Take a Whale Watching Tour: Take a whale watching tour from Santa Cruz and witness the majestic California gray whales, dolphins, and other marine life. You will be taken out on a boat and see these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
• Explore the Redwoods: Head to the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and take a hike through the magnificent redwoods. This lush park is home to a variety of wildlife and beautiful scenery.
• Visit the Mystery Spot: The Mystery Spot is one of the most mysterious places in Santa Cruz. The area is filled with odd and strange phenomena that are still unexplained. Tourists can explore the area and try to figure out the mystery behind it.
• Take a Surfing Lesson: Learn to surf in Santa Cruz! There are a number of surf schools in the area where you can take lessons and rent equipment. You will be surfing in no time!
• Enjoy a Day at the Santa Cruz Wharf: Spend a day at the Santa Cruz Wharf and take in the stunning views of the ocean. You can also visit the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History, which offers a variety of exhibits and activities.
• Go Wine Tasting: Santa Cruz is home to several renowned wineries. Take a tour of the vineyards and then sample the delicious wines they produce.
• Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium: Go to the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium and explore the wonders of the ocean. You can see everything from jellyfish and sharks to sea lions and otters.

These are just a few of the many things to do outside of Yosemite in Santa Cruz. With its stunning beaches, vibrant downtown, and numerous attractions, it is an ideal destination for anyone looking for a fun and exciting vacation.

Monterey

If you’re looking for a beach experience, Monterey is a great option. Monterey State Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing and picnicking. Fisherman’s Wharf is a great spot to go crabbing and whale watching. The famous 17-Mile Drive is a must-see, with its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and its spectacular Pebble Beach golf course.

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world and a definite must-see. It has 28 exhibits, featuring a variety of marine life, including sea otters, jellyfish, sea horses, and more. You can even get up close and personal with the sea life with the aquarium’s interactive exhibits.

The Monterey History and Maritime Museum is another great attraction. It tells the story of the city’s past and its connection to the sea. You can explore the museum’s exhibits, which include artifacts from the city’s whaling and fishing industries, as well as a variety of maritime artifacts.

If you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path, there’s Point Lobos State Reserve. This nature reserve is known for its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, as well as its abundant wildlife. You can take a walk along the trails and explore the reserve’s forests and rocky shorelines.

Last but certainly not least, there’s Cannery Row. This famous street was once home to the city’s bustling canning industry. Today, it’s a popular destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. There are also a number of galleries and museums located on the street, so you can explore the city’s history and culture.

Whether you’re looking for a beach escape or a city adventure, Monterey has something for everyone. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder why Monterey is one of the most popular places to visit outside of Yosemite National Park.

San Francisco

Start your adventure at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. You can take a ferry or a cable car to the bridge and explore the pathways and overlooks along the way. The bridge is one of the most photographed places in the world, and its stunning views of the Bay Area make it a must-see.

After taking in the views of the Golden Gate Bridge, head to Fisherman's Wharf. This area is packed with seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and other attractions. You can take a guided tour of Alcatraz Island, take a cruise around the bay, or just explore the shops and eateries.

If you're looking for something a bit more low-key, visit the Presidio. This park is home to a variety of trails and paths, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The park is located near the Golden Gate Bridge and has stunning views of the city skyline.

If you're looking for something a bit more active, take a bike ride around the city. San Francisco is home to a network of bike lanes and paths, making it easy to explore the city on two wheels. You can also take a guided tour of the city or rent a bike and explore the city on your own.

Finally, make sure to visit some of the city's famous landmarks. The Palace of Fine Arts is a beautiful structure located in the Marina district. You can also explore Chinatown, the oldest Chinatown in North America. The area is full of colorful shops and restaurants, and it's a great way to learn more about the city's history and culture.

Whether you're visiting Yosemite National Park or just exploring San Francisco, there are plenty of things to do. From breathtaking views to cultural experiences, this vibrant city has something for everyone. So don't forget to explore the city and enjoy all the attractions it has to offer.

Big Sur

One of the most popular activities for visitors to Big Sur is hiking. With miles of winding trails and spectacular views of the rugged coastline, Big Sur offers some of the best hiking in California. One of the most popular hikes is the McWay Falls Trail, which leads to a stunning 80-foot waterfall that cascades down into the Pacific Ocean. Other popular trails include the Partington Cove Trail, which leads to a small beach, and the Ventana Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the Big Sur coastline.

For those looking to explore the Big Sur coastline, there are plenty of opportunities to do so. From kayaking to whale watching, visitors can get up close and personal with the Pacific Ocean. Kayaking is a great way to explore the rugged coastline and get a closer look at some of the wildlife that inhabits the area. Whale watching is also popular, as the area is home to a variety of whales and other marine creatures.

Another popular activity for visitors to Big Sur is camping. With its stunning beaches, lush forests, and rugged coastline, Big Sur is an ideal destination for campers. There are a variety of campgrounds located in the area, as well as dispersed camping areas throughout the region. Visitors should be aware of the regulations for camping in the area, as well as the rules for fishing and other activities.

For those looking to enjoy a more relaxed experience, Big Sur is also home to a variety of wineries and art galleries. Visitors can sample some of the region's finest wines while enjoying stunning views of the rugged coastline. Additionally, art galleries throughout the region offer visitors a chance to explore and appreciate local artwork.

Finally, Big Sur is the perfect place to take in the natural beauty of California's Central Coast. From stunning hikes to incredible wildlife and breathtaking views, Big Sur has something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure, Big Sur is the ideal destination. So make sure to plan a trip to this incredible region and explore all that it has to offer.

Sequoia National Park

One of the most popular activities in Sequoia National Park is hiking. The park has hundreds of miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls through the forest to challenging treks that take you to the highest peaks in the park. Hikers can take in the stunning views of the park’s towering sequoias, and keep an eye out for the park’s abundant wildlife.

Another popular activity in Sequoia National Park is camping. The park has seven developed campgrounds, as well as primitive campsites, so visitors can experience the beauty of the park in a remote, secluded setting. Campers can explore the park’s trails and take in the stunning views of the park’s towering sequoias.

Fishing is also a popular activity in Sequoia National Park. The park’s many streams and lakes are home to a variety of fish, including trout, bass, and catfish. Anglers can enjoy a peaceful day on the lake and take in the stunning views of the park’s towering sequoias.

Another great way to explore Sequoia National Park is by horseback. The park has several equestrian trails that can be explored on horseback, and visitors can take in the stunning views of the park’s towering sequoias.

The park also offers a variety of educational programs, including ranger-led hikes and talks. These programs provide visitors with an in-depth look at the park’s history, geology, and ecology.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable outdoor adventure, Sequoia National Park is the perfect destination. With its towering sequoias, stunning views, and variety of outdoor activities, the park has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely hike or a thrilling fishing trip, Sequoia National Park is the perfect place to explore. So grab your gear, pack a picnic, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the majestic Sequoia National Park!

Napa Valley

For those who are looking for a more adventurous experience, there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy. Hiking trails meander through the vineyards and along the rolling hills, providing breathtaking views of the valley. The Napa Valley is also home to some of the best mountain biking and road cycling in the state. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride or a more intense experience, there are plenty of trails to explore.

If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, there are plenty of ways to take in the beauty of the valley. Take a leisurely stroll through the vineyards, or simply sit back and enjoy the beautiful scenery. For a truly unique experience, hop on a hot air balloon and watch the sun set over the vineyards.

The Napa Valley is also home to some of the best wineries in the world. From family-owned boutique wineries to larger-scale operations, there is something for every palate. Spend a day exploring the wineries and tasting rooms, and enjoy the region’s finest wines.

For a truly unforgettable experience, visit the renowned Castello di Amorosa. This 13th century-style castle is the perfect place to explore the history and culture of the valley. Tour the grounds and sample the wines, and take in the breathtaking views of the vineyards.

No matter what type of experience you’re looking for, the Napa Valley has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for outdoor recreation, world-class wineries, or a unique cultural experience, the valley has it all. So if you’re looking for something to do outside of Yosemite, be sure to check out the Napa Valley.

Death Valley National Park

One of the best things to do in Death Valley National Park is to explore the park’s many geological features. The park is home to some of the most spectacular geological features in the world, including the Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes, the salt flats known as the Devil’s Golf Course, and Badwater Basin, the lowest point in the Western Hemisphere. Visitors can explore the unique desert landscape on foot, by car, or by taking a guided tour.

Another great way to experience the park is to take a night tour. The night sky in Death Valley National Park is some of the darkest and clearest in the United States, and visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the stars, planets, and other celestial objects. Night tours are offered by private companies and the park service, and they often include additional activities such as stargazing and storytelling.

Hiking is another popular activity in the park. Death Valley National Park is home to a variety of trails for hikers of all skill levels. There are easy trails for a leisurely stroll, and more difficult trails for the more adventurous hiker. The park also offers backcountry camping for those looking for an overnight adventure.

Exploring the history of the area is also a great way to spend time in the park. Death Valley National Park is home to a number of historic sites, including Scotty’s Castle and the Harmony Borax Works. There are also numerous ghost towns and abandoned mines that visitors can explore.

Those looking for a unique adventure can also take a guided off-road tour. Off-road tours take visitors on a rugged 4x4 journey through some of the park’s more remote areas. Tour operators provide vehicles and experienced drivers, and visitors can experience the park’s remote beauty up close.

Redwood National Park

One of the best ways to experience the park is on foot. Popular trails such as the Coastal Trail and Redwood Creek Trail provide breathtaking views of the redwoods and the Pacific Ocean. These trails are easy to navigate, so even novice hikers can take in the beauty of the park. If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, head to the historic Tall Trees Grove, where some of the oldest and tallest trees in the park can be found.

If you’re looking for a more thrilling way to explore Redwood National Park, consider a whitewater rafting trip on the Klamath River. The river winds through canyons and forests and includes class III and IV rapids, making it a great option for experienced rafters. For a more leisurely experience, take a kayak or canoe tour of the Klamath River.

If you’re an animal lover, you’ll be happy to know that Redwood National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife. From deer and elk to black bears and bald eagles, there’s plenty to see. The park is also a great spot for whale watching, with gray whales making the area their home from December to April.

For a unique and memorable experience, head to the Klamath River Overlook, where you can watch the sun set over the river and the redwood forest. The overlook is also a great spot for stargazing on clear nights.

Finally, don’t forget to take in the culture of the region. The Yurok Tribe has called the Redwood National Park area home for thousands of years, and you can learn more about their history and culture at the Redwood National and State Parks Visitor Center.

Lake Shasta

One of the most popular activities at Lake Shasta is camping. The area is full of beautiful campgrounds with stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Whether you prefer to camp in a tent or RV, there is sure to be a perfect spot for you. During the summer months, there are also several boat and fishing tours that offer a unique experience of the area.

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, there is plenty of opportunities for adventure. The lake is an ideal spot for wakeboarding, waterskiing, and tubing. There are also plenty of hiking trails in the area, which offer breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding area.

Another great way to experience Lake Shasta is to take a scenic cruise. You’ll get to see the lake from a different perspective and you may even get to spot some of the local wildlife. During the summer months, there are also several sunset cruises available.

If you’re looking for something a bit more relaxing, Lake Shasta is also home to several wineries. You can enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding area.

No matter what you’re looking for, Lake Shasta is sure to have something for everyone. With its stunning views, endless outdoor activities, and wineries, this is the perfect place for a weekend getaway. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Lake Shasta for an unforgettable experience.

Pinnacles National Park

For those looking for a more strenuous hike, the High Peaks Trail is a great option. It's a challenging 8.5 mile one-way hike that takes visitors to the highest point in the park, the Bear Gulch summit. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and canyons, and offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing.

For those looking for something a little less strenuous, there are plenty of shorter hikes and walks to enjoy. The Moses Spring Trail is a popular choice, as it's shorter than other trails and offers wonderful views of the park's unique rock formations. There are also a number of trails that lead to waterfalls, such as the Balconies Cliffs Trail and the Pinnacles Falls Trail.

Bird watching is another popular activity in Pinnacles National Park. The park is home to over 150 different species of birds, including the California condor, the golden eagle, and the peregrine falcon. Birders can take advantage of the many trails and overlooks throughout the park, where they can observe these majestic birds in their natural habitat.

For those looking for a more adventurous experience, rock climbing is an excellent option. The park is home to a variety of climbing routes, from beginner-level to expert-level. The Balconies Cliffs are a popular spot for climbing, offering routes of all levels of difficulty. Experienced climbers may also want to check out the High Peaks Trail, which offers some of the most challenging climbs in the park.

No matter what type of outdoor activity you're looking for, Pinnacles National Park has something for everyone. It's a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels of experience, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, bird watching, and rock climbing. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a peaceful bird watching experience, Pinnacles National Park is sure to provide an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Mono Lake

The lake is known for its unique features, like its alkaline waters and its high concentrations of salt and minerals. This creates an environment that is perfect for a variety of birds and fish to thrive in. Bird watchers from all over the world flock to Mono Lake to get a glimpse of its resident birds, such as the California Gulls, Snowy Plovers, and even Bald Eagles. For those looking for a more active experience, kayaking is a popular activity in the area. The lake is full of coves and islands to explore, and the views of the mountains surrounding the lake make it a truly breathtaking experience.

In addition to the lake, Mono Lake is also home to a variety of wildlife. There are hundreds of species of plants and animals that call this area home, including deer, coyotes, and mountain lions. For those looking to explore the area’s diverse wildlife, there are a number of guided tours that can help you get a closer look.

One of the best ways to get to know Mono Lake is to take a guided tour. Guided tours are available year-round and offer a variety of activities, from bird watching to kayaking to learning about the lake’s unique geological features.

No matter what you’re looking for, Mono Lake is sure to have something for you. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day of bird watching or an active day of kayaking, Mono Lake is the perfect destination to explore the beauty of nature. As Mono Lake’s most famous resident, John Muir said, “When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world.” Mono Lake is a great place to explore that connection.

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