As summer moves into full swing, there’s one safe activity we can all continue to do in the midst of a pandemic: take a walk! And we might as well do it in a beautiful place. These spots are all close to home, or a quick drive away, making them great places to get out in a time of staying home. Most of them are kid and dog friendly, so pack up the car, and maybe a picnic basket, and get out for some pretty scenery and fresh air!

1. Snipes Pershing Ravine Trail

5625 Glencrest Ln, Orangevale, CA 95662

This easy trail is super close to Sacramento, but makes you feel completely removed from city life! It has beautiful scenery, wildflowers, and an incredible view of Folsom when you get to the top of the hill. Explore lots of winding trails and find the perfect little picnic spot for a full day of fun out in the sun!

For more information: https://naturalatlas.com/trails/snipes-pershing-ravine-2171062

2. Lake Tabeaud Loop

9747 Tabeaud Rd, Jackson, CA 95642

Lake Tabeaud is a small lake with an easy walking trail around the entire lake! It’s kid and dog friendly, and so peaceful, since it’s removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. As you walk the well-groomed trail, enjoy lots of wildflowers and beautiful scenery. There’s at lot of parking at the trailhead, and restrooms, although they are closed at the time of this post.

To learn more: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/lake-tabeaud-loop?u=m

3. Tahoe East Shore Trail

1924 Tahoe Blvd, Incline Village, NV 89451

This trail is wide and evenly paved, making it stroller friendly, kid-friendly, bike-friendly, and dog-friendly… so basically, friendly for everyone! It wraps along the side of Lake Tahoe’s East Shore. There are benches to enjoy the gorgeous views all along the path, and many easy hikes along the way to explore!

For more information: https://travelnevada.com/discover/25963/lake-tahoe-nevada-state-park

4. Coyote Hills Regional Park

8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont, CA 94555

Coyote Hills is a little-known treasure in the Bay Area! There’s plenty to see and do, with marshes to explore via extensive boardwalks, and rocky hills to hike for a view of the park. Bike, walk, picnic, birdwatch and explore the park with your kids and/or dogs for a day of fun!

For more information: https://www.ebparks.org/parks/coyote_hills/

Picture Source: https://www.mercurynews.com/2015/08/18/san-francisco-bay-trail-coyote-hills-adventures/

5. Jack London State Historic Park

2400 London Ranch Road, Glen Ellen, CA 95442

The homestead of the famous writer, who penned American classics like, The Call of the Wild. Historic homes and the gorgeous surrounding property make for a lovely place to go for a walk or have a picnic with the kids! There’s so much to see as you leisurely wander the property… and you might as well hit some local wineries while you’re in the area!

For more information: https://jacklondonpark.com/

Picture Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_London_State_Historic_Park

6. Hidden Falls

7587 Mears Pl, Auburn, CA 95603

Just a short 45-minute drive from Sacramento, Hidden Falls has gorgeous trails for hikers of all skill levels! With several hidden waterfalls to find, along the way, there’s always something interesting to look at. Make sure to stop at the lookout points for some picturesque views!

For more information: https://www.placer.ca.gov/6106/Hidden-Falls-Regional-Park

Picture Source: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/hidden-falls-trails

Let us know where you’ll be socially distancing this summer, and if there are any local nature trails we should add to our list!

XOXO,

RWD