A Winter Weekend Getaway Along the Sierra Foothills: Auburn, Grass Valley, Nevada City & the Yuba River

Old Gold miner statue Auburn

A Cozy, History-Rich, Easy Winter Escape Just Off I-80 Winter travel in the Sierra doesn’t always have to mean chains, blizzards, and high-elevation mileage. Tucked between Sacramento and Tahoe lies a stretch of foothill towns where Gold Rush history, canyon adventure, and modern boutique comforts blend into a perfect two-day getaway. This itinerary loops through … Read more

Winter Getaways in the Sierra & Beyond: Hyatt Vacation Club Resorts for Snow Season and Spring Travel

Book Early, Embrace Winter: Your Guide to Sierra & California Hyatt Vacation Club Getaways Winter in the Sierra Nevada has a rhythm all its own—fresh snowfall in the pines, cozy village evenings, and the kind of quiet, unhurried moments families rarely experience during the rest of the year. If you’re dreaming of a seasonal escape … Read more

Lavender, Blueberries & Sierra Vibes: Why Lavender Blue Harvest Days in Apple Hill Belong on Your Summer Calendar

Lavender field

June 21–22 & June 28–29, 2025 | Camino, CA When it comes to sensory-rich summer adventures in the Sierra foothills, few experiences rival the fragrant beauty and pastoral charm of Lavender Blue Harvest Days in Apple Hill. Hosted across two weekends—June 21–22 and June 28–29, 2025—this blooming celebration is far more than a farm event; … Read more

Skies, Storms, and Still Waters: A Sierra Weekend of Hope and Heartbreak

Lake Almanor from Dyer Point

From Balloons to Bass Boats—A Sierra Weekend That Had It All By Charlie Pankey | Sierra Rec Magazine Some weekends remind us just how wide the emotional spectrum of adventure can be. What started as a joyful Friday morning soaring above the Carson Valley in a hot air balloon ended with still water and quiet … Read more

What to Do in the Sierra This Weekend: Balloons, Bass, and Chili

The Carson Valley

May 16–18, 2025 If spring in the Sierra had a calling card, this would be the weekend it delivered it with a stampede of color, community, and adventure. From hot air balloons rising over Carson Valley, to kayaks slicing across Lake Almanor, and the bold bite of chili cook-offs in Virginia City, there’s no shortage … Read more

A 2-3 Day Spring Adventure in the Northern Sierra

Lake Almanor Ca and Lassen Peak

Fishing, hiking, volcanic wonders, and historic Gold Rush towns in the Plumas & Lassen region Spring in Plumas County and Lassen Volcanic National Park is a time of rushing rivers, wildflower-filled meadows, and crystal-clear alpine lakes. This itinerary is designed to accommodate travelers coming from Reno, Sacramento, or the Bay Area, offering flexibility for a … Read more

A Classic 2-3 Day Spring Getaway in Calaveras County

Calaveras Grapestomp image courtesy of gocalveras

Gold Rush charm, towering sequoias, scenic mountain vistas, and thrilling river adventures. Spring is the perfect time to visit Calaveras County and the Western Sierra, where the rolling green foothills come alive with wildflowers, flowing rivers, and crisp mountain air. We have spent many a weekend in the Western Sierra and the Calaveras region of … Read more

Spring Stargazing & Adventure Guide: Plan Your 2025 Visit to Death Valley National Park

Overlanding in Titus Canyon death Valley

As winter fades and spring temperatures settle into the Sierra and the California desert, it’s the perfect time to plan a trip to Death Valley National Park. With mild daytime temperatures, ideal stargazing conditions, and ranger-led programs, early 2025 offers visitors a chance to experience the park’s striking landscapes and night skies without the sweltering … Read more

A Beautiful Three Day Spring Adventure Itinerary for the Southern Sierra

Visallia Bloosom trail Ladys standing in orchard in full bllom

Springtime in Visalia: A Bloom-Filled Southern Sierra Adventure Spring in the Visalia region is nothing short of magical. As winter fades, the orchards of Tulare County explode with color, creating one of California’s most unique and stunning springtime experiences. Whether you’re looking for a scenic drive through pink and white blossoms near Visalia, a gateway … Read more