It’s easy to get outside and explore from Pleasant Hill, CA. Make Pleasant Hill your base camp for the best of Northern California hiking and outdoor adventures.
There’s a reason that famous naturalists John Muir and Jack London loved this part of California so much. Located just east of San Francisco, Pleasant Hill offers convenient access to rugged mountains, stunning waterfront, and some of the most spectacular parks and preserves in the U.S. If you’re looking to hike, paddle, or spot local wildlife, there are plenty of outdoor spaces to explore. Here are some of the top outdoor highlights, organized by proximity to Pleasant Hill.
While you’re only four miles away, you’ll feel like you’re hundreds of miles from civilization. Explore rolling green hills and shady canyons, plus get some of the best panoramic views of Mount Diablo and the entire Diablo Valley.
Three-hundred and twenty-six acres of woods and grassland are yours to explore. John Muir frequently hiked this area with his two daughters, and the park is named for his eldest daughter, Wanda.
Your whole family can enjoy this park’s amenities, including picnic areas, sports fields, and bocce ball courts. The three-mile trail system offers peaceful walks through the marsh and by the shoreline.
Take a scenic drive up the gorgeous winding road to the 3,849-foot summit for spectacular views. Hikers and mountain bikers can enjoy tons of trails along the way and camping too! Remember to pack essentials in a picnic basket, and your portable phone chargers!
Take a ferry ride to this island park located in San Francisco Bay, and you’ll be rewarded with expansive views of the city skyline and surrounding area. Once you’ve arrived, enjoy a picnic, go on a guided hike, or rent some bikes to cruise around the island.
Plan a day trip from Pleasant Hill to one of these spectacular locations and take advantage of everything the Northern California region has to offer.
Wander along more than six miles of trails through stunning groves of old-growth coastal redwoods. Kids will enjoy the fun and interactive Junior Ranger program. Just be sure to note that pets are not permitted at this National Monument.
A perfect blend of history and outdoor fun. Learn about writer Jack London and explore historic buildings from when the famous adventurer lived here. There are also 29 miles of trails to explore with stunning views of the Sonoma Valley.
If you’re looking for scenic seashore hikes, then Point Reyes is a must-see. Enjoy miles of hiking trails, dazzling views, and opportunities to discover more than 1,500 species of plants and wildlife. The park also offers backcountry and boat-in camping.
Put Pleasant Hill on your Northern California road-trip itinerary and you’ll be within striking distance of these famous parks and places:
The enormous redwoods, conifers, oaks, and sycamores in this river gorge will dazzle your senses. Big Sur offers acres of pristine wilderness, and it’s a world-class destination for hiking, camping, and spotting wildlife. And, of course the best way to get there is by driving down the Pacific Coast Highway, one of the greatest scenic drives in the country -- if not the world.
Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America and home to four seasons of outdoor recreation. From hiking and boating in the summer, to skiing and snowshoeing in winter, there’s plenty to love about this Sierra Nevada Mountain region.
This 1,200 square mile park is known for its waterfalls, El Capitan, and other-worldly beauty. There’s so much to do and see in Yosemite that you may wish to camp in the park, stay in the famed Ahwahnee Hotel, or another National Park Service lodging, and spend a few days exploring.
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