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Climb 2,000ft in 6 miles on this notorious South Bay hike. It’ll have your legs burning, but will also reward you with stunning views above the clouds. 

Here's your plan for a challenging 6-mile hike up Mission Peak with stunning views

🍑-Kicking Hike Above the Clouds

Hike Mission Peak for stunning views from this challenging 6-mile loop in Fremont. Best experienced at sunrise or sunset for less crowd and better weather.

Hiking

✅ Before you go 
• Get directions to the trailhead on AllTrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/mission-peak-loop-from-stanford-avenue-staging-area?sh=gh8dov
• Start before/close to sunrise to beat the crowds and sun
• This hike is relatively strenuous and has no tree coverage; pack plenty of water and sun protection
• The Stanford Avenue Staging Area Parking Lot fills up early (we got there around 7AM on a Saturday and the parking lot was already full), but there is street parking available on the nearby residential blocks but watch out for permit parking signs (you will get a ticket!)

💪 Pro tips
• After the rainy season, you’ll find cows grazing on/around the trails, and the views are green and lush
• This is also a great sunset hike and much less crowded then; just make sure to bring a headlamp 
• Another option is to just go up and down the Peak Meadow Trail, it’s way less busy than the Hidden Valley Trail
• The line to pose with the pole can take over 10 minutes. If you take a photo, be mindful of everyone waiting and take your photo quickly :)

Hike Mission Peak

as much as the next guy, but sometimes I just want a hike

that will kick my butt in a few short hours so I can spend the rest of my day lazing around.

That's exactly what the notorious trek up

Mission Peak delivers. Ooh and it's dog-friendly!

Start at the Mission Peak trail head in Fremont. 

To beat the heat and the crowds aim for a sunrise

or sunset hike, but expect to encounter a bit of both

I suggest taking the six mile loop counter clockwise.

Whether you're a road less traveled enthusiast, or just want to save your knees,

taking the steeper route up is the best way to go.

but you'll have the trail almost to yourself and your glutes will thank you later. 

On a clear day, there are views of the Bay Area in every direction,

even though the rest of my body may have felt like it was somewhere else.

Videos don't do it justice, but as you near the peak, you're going to feel that burn.

I'm glad these videos are muted because Riley Bear wasn't the only girl panting.

At the peak everyone waits in line to pose with this stick.

If you grew up here, you'll remember this funny rite of passage.

But you can also just appreciate the incredible views.

After some fun in the sun, we descended the 2000 feet back into fog.

The whole loop took us less than three hours, even though we sweat enough for three days.

Text this plan to your dogs and save it for the weekend. You're both going to love it.

Head to Kennedy Lake for a beginner-friendly backpacking trip with rivers, meadows, mountain views, and a stunning alpine lake—just 15.5 miles round trip and four hours from San Francisco. It’s the perfect weekend escape with no permit reservations needed.

Perfect Beginner Backpacking Escape

Pick up your wilderness permit easily at Summit Ranger Station before starting your backpacking adventure—no reservations or fees required.

Permit Pickup

✅ Before you go
• You’ll need a permit, but no stress—no advance reservations, fees, or quotas to worry about!
• Pick up your permit in person at the Summit Ranger Station, located at 1 Pinecrest Road, Pinecrest, off Highway 108.

Pick Up Permit at Summit Ranger Station  

Backpack through scenic meadows, rivers, and mountain views to reach Kennedy Lake, a perfect spot for camping, swimming, and relaxing in the alpine wilderness.

Backpacking & Hiking

✅ Before you go
• If you don’t have your own gear, I recommend renting from Sports Basement or REI—they offer affordable backpacking rentals.

💪 Pro tips
• There’s a trailhead parking lot located about a quarter mile before you reach Kennedy Meadows Resort.
• You can drive up to Kennedy Meadows Resort to drop off packs and most of your group near the trailhead, then return to the parking lot to park your car.
• For the best camping vibes, head to the shady spots among the trees along Kennedy Creek, just downstream from the lake—some even come with epic views of the meadow and towering Kennedy Peak.

Hike to Kennedy Lake

Celebrate your backpacking adventure with a well-earned burger and cold beer at Kennedy Meadows Resort, a friendly stop just after your hike out from Kennedy Lake.

Lunch and Beers


💪 Pro tips
• Nothing beats a cold beer and a juicy burger after your hike back!

Enjoy Lunch and Beers at Kennedy Meadows Resort 

Kennedy Lake is an awesome beginner friendly

backpacking trip and the perfect weekend escape.

The trail has a little bit of everything,

and a gorgeous alpine lake waiting for you at the end.

It's about a 4 hour drive from San Francisco,

and the hike is around 15.5 miles round trip with about 1500 ft in elevation gain.

It was the right amount of effort to feel proud,

even if it's your first time backpacking.

we picked up a wilderness permit at the Summit Ranger Station near Pinecrest.

We then parked at Kennedy Meadows and hit the trail around 9 a.m.

We set up camp near the back of the lake and stayed for 2 nights,

which gave us a full day to chill at the beach.

tried some fishing and just took in the awesome sights around us.

The hike out was easier with lighter packs and a downhill trail.

We wrapped up the trip with a well earned lunch and beers at Kennedy Meadows Resort.

The whole trip was the perfect amount of adventure and chill.

Head to Graton Casino for one of their epic summer pool parties —nonstop fun, music, and vibes you don't want to miss!

Epic Summer Pool Party

Dance by the pool, enjoy live DJs, and soak up Vegas-style vibes at Graton Casino's summer pool party in Rohnert Park. Swim, chill, and party all day!

Pool Party & Dancing

✅ Before you go
• Check the lineup and snag your tickets early - these parties sell out: https:// www.gratonresortcasino.com/pool/
• Dress for the pool - swimwear, sunglasses, and sandals.

💪 Pro tips
• Bring sunscreen — you'll be in the sun all day!
• A shuttle runs from Daly City and San Francisco for easy access to the party!

The Party at Graton Pool

throws epic pool parties all summer long.

We went for the G-Eazy show and the atmosphere was unreal.

and just living it up while he crushed his performance.

and I've already marked my calendar for the next pool party at Graton.

Here's your plan for enjoying ramen and rooftop rollerblading with drinks and city views. Watch the video 👇

Enjoy a fun and unique night out with flavorful ramen at Nojo Ramen Tavern followed by rooftop rollerblading, drinks, and city views at SVN West.

Ramen & Rooftop Rollerblading 
🍜🛼🌆

Enjoy rich, flavorful ramen—especially the Soy Sauce Tori Paitan—at Nojo Ramen Tavern in FiDi, perfect for a delicious start to your night out.

Ramen Dining

✅ Before you go
•  They don’t take reservation but you can add your name to the waitlist online. 

💪 Pro tips
• Their specialty is the Soy Sauce Tori Paitan- a must order! 

Nojo Ramen Tavern 

Rollerblade on a rainbow-colored rooftop rink at SVN West, enjoying city views, a live DJ, drinks, and snacks for a fun night out.

Rooftop Rollerblading

✅ Before you go
• Purchase your tickets: https://bucketlisters.com/experience/svn-west-rooftop-skate-rink
• Don’t forget your socks! 

💪 Pro tips
• They also have special events for 21+ that I want to check out! 
• Your ticket comes with skate rentals. 

Rooftop Rollerblading 

Here's your plan for a fun night out featuring ramen and rooftop rollerblading.

You'll start your evening at Nojo Ramen Tavern.

which has a braised chicken thigh served in their ramen.

The broth was rich without being too heavy,

The floor was decked out in rainbow colors with

stunning views of the city as the backdrop.

There was also a DJ playing music and keeping the vibe high.

Rollerblading turned out to be trickier than we expected,

we took a break and ordered a couple of drinks from their full bar.

They also had some tasty snacks that we enjoyed while soaking in the views.

perfect for a group outing or a cute date.

Here's your plan for easy hikes, giant sequoias, scenic drives, and relaxing in Three Rivers.

Watch the video 👇

Perfect for a long weekend, this three-day guide takes you through the must-see gems at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park. All trails are easy, under 3 miles, and well paved so get the group together and check it off your bucket list. 

3-Day Guide to Sequoia National Park 🏞️

Arrive in Three Rivers, settle into your lodging, and relax before exploring Sequoia and Kings Canyon. Perfect basecamp to rest and prepare for your adventure.

Arrive & Relax

✅ Before you go
• Entry to the park is $35 per car and its valid for 7 days from purchase. You can purchase the pass upon entry. If you have the America The Beautiful National Parks pass, just show your pass and ID.
• Book lodging in Three Rivers or a campsite at the park. We stayed in this Airbnb and it was great for groups: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/19953111?
• Cell service is limited — AT&T has better coverage but you’ll still need to download offline maps from Google Maps covering your route from SF, Sequoia National Park, and Kings Canyon
• Grocery stores in Three Rivers are expensive. Instead, pick up snacks and any cooking needs from Visalia, CA on your drive into Three Rivers.
• The drive is 5hrs from SF without traffic but you’ll likely make stops here and there to stretch your legs and pick up snacks/food.

💪 Pro tips
• Bring a small cooler to keep snacks and beverages in the car – gatorade, sandwiches, fruit, etc.
• Always bring hand sanitizer with you – not all bathrooms in the park have soap.
• Download a variety of playlists so you’re not left with awkward silences during the drive
• Refuel before going into Three Rivers. This way you don’t have to stop the next day.

Drive to Three Rivers, CA & Relax

Start your Sequoia adventure with a scenic drive to Kings Canyon National Park. Swap drivers for winding roads, enjoy the forest views, and be ready for easy hikes.

Scenic Drive

✅ Before you go
• This will be the day with the most driving. So plan ahead to take turns.
• Using low gear is recommended, especially as you leave the park so you need to get familiar with this if you’re new.
• Make some sandwiches, bring gatorade, water, and other snacks in a small cooler. There is no food or fuel to purchase inside the park
• Weather is generally cooler in the grooves but always check in advance. Even on hotter days, it’s best to do the hikes early or after 3pm
• Download the hikes from AllTrails in advance– don’t rely on cell service!
• While the trails are easy and well maintained, bring your hiking shoes

💪 Pro tip
• Bring mints to help with any car sickness – those winding turns are something!

Day 1: Drive to Kings Canyon National Park 

Stroll the Big Stump Loop for 1.7 miles among colossal tree stumps, meadows, and the historic Mark Twain giant. Perfect for easy hiking and nature photos.

Nature Walk

✅ Before you go
• All Trails map found here: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/big-stump-loop--4
• There’s’ a descent amount of parking at the trail head with bathrooms and picnic tables.

💪 Pro tip
• Have fun marveling and walking among the big stumps throughout the trail.

Day 1: Big Stump Loop (1.7 Miles, Easy)

Marvel at the colossal General Grant Tree, the second largest sequoia in the world, on a short, easy loop. Explore the Fallen Monarch and historic Gamblin's Cabin.

Giant Tree Walk

✅ Before you go
• AllTrails map found here: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/general-grant-trail
• This loop is very popular so you’ll likely need to circle around before finding parking

💪 Pro tips
• Go inside the Fallen Monarch! It’s crazy how large this tree is.
• Kings Canyon has so much more to see! We’re only hitting some highlights but it’s worth making a trip just for this park. 
• After you’re done, take a break to eat and hydrate before hopping back on the road.

Day 1: General Grant Tree (0.7 Miles, Easy) 

Climb the steep stairs of Moro Rock for sweeping Sierra views—an invigorating 0.7-mile hike with epic photo ops at the top!

Scenic Hike

✅ Before you go
• AllTrails map found here: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/moro-rock--3
• The drive from Kings Canyon to Sequoia is about 1hr and it’s winding. Because of that, it’s going to be exhausting so this is the time to trade drivers or co-pilots.
• The shuttles only operate during the Summer – take advantage of them and give your legs some rest.

💪 Pro tips
• Since you’re parking at the museum, go take a peek inside. Some cool history!
• There’s another giant sequoia right at the entrance of the museum. It’s a great spot for picture taking!
• If you’re struggling with getting a picture of the full tree – try panorama mode 📸

Day 1: Moro Rock, Sequoia National Park (0.7 Miles, Easy)

Relax back at your Three Rivers lodging after a day of hiking—enjoy golden hour by the river if you have access.

Drive & Relax

✅ Before you go
• Here’s another opportunity to switch drivers. It’s another hour drive back down to Three Rivers.

💪 Pro tip
• If your lodging is near the river or has access to it, take advantage and spend golden hour there.

Day 1: Drive Back to Three Rivers 

Wander through wildflower meadows, explore Tharp's Log cabin, and spot wildlife along the easy 1.8-mile Crescent Meadow loop in Sequoia National Park.

Meadow Hike

✅ Before you go
• AllTrails Map found here: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/high-sierra-tharp-s-log-and-crescent-meadow-loop
• Make sure you have sufficient fuel in the car before driving in.
• Again, pack some sandwiches and reload on snacks/hydration. It’s another long day and you’ll be munching throughout.
• Careful with bees – especially during summer

💪 Pro tip
• Lots of blooming flowers in Spring/Summer here to take pics with!

Day 2: High Sierra, Tharp’s Log & Crescent Meadow (1.8 Miles, Easy)

Stroll the Congress Trail to see massive sequoias up close, including General Sherman. It's an easy 2.9-mile walk through lush meadows and some of the world’s oldest trees.

Hiking Congress Trail

✅ Before you go
• AllTrails Map found here: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/congress-trail
• Depending on how you’re feeling, you can choose to eat your sandwiches before you start this hike. Since it’s longer, you will need energy/hydration so make sure you bring snacks/water with you during the hike as well.
• This is a very popular hike. Most people only come for General Sherman so once you go down, if there’s not a lot of people by the tree, go see it first. Otherwise, you’ll loop to it at the end.

💪 Pro tips
• Take your time walking through the meadows. You’re literally in the land of the giants in this hike!
• There are lots of cool spots throughout the drive in the park. You can pull over and snap pics but always be mindful of the road. Avoid blocking traffic on narrow ones especially in the shuttle routes.
• This hike will wear you out so it might be a good idea to switch drivers or take a nap before you drive out of the park.

Day 2: Congress Trail (2.9 Miles, Easy) 

Enjoy authentic Greek fare at Tony’s Taverna on Wheels; bring your own drinks and relax outdoors after a day in Sequoia. Order ahead for pick-up or dine at their new sit-down spot.

Greek Dinner

✅ Before you go
• Menu can be found here: https://www.yelp.com/biz/tony-s-taverna-on-wheels-three-rivers
• Depending on the time you go, it can get busy so you can always call ahead to place an order for pick-up and then just eat at the picnic tables there.
• They recently opened a sit-down restaurant as well! If you’re feeling fancy, go check them out.

💪 Pro tip
• This spot is BYOB, so feel free to bring your drink of choice to enjoy in the open air

Day 2: Dinner at Tony’s Taverna on Wheels 

Hike the scenic Tokopah Falls Trail for river views, waterfalls, and an easy nature walk – perfect for a relaxed day in Sequoia National Park.

Waterfall hike

✅ Before you go
• AllTrails map found here: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/tokopah-falls
• This hike takes you along the river and through some waterfalls. If you have time, do it!

OPTIONAL: Day 3: Tokopah Falls (4.0 miles, easy) 

Sometimes you just need to escape to the mountains.

So here's your plan for a long weekend of easy hikes,

and chill hangs at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.

so use the first day to settle in and rest.

then drive 1.5 hours to the Big Stump Trail.

It's an easy 1.7 mile loop with peaceful meadows,

This one was literally chopped down in 1891 just to

prove to East Coasters that these giants were even real.

It's the 2nd biggest sequoia in the world,

1650 years old and still standing strong.

You'll also see Gamblin's cabin and the Fallen Monarch,

which people legit lived in back in the day.

This is where you'll take a break and munch

on your snacks before driving to Sequoia National Park.

so park at the Giant Forest Museum and take the shuttle to Moro Rock.

now you can wrap up the day with golden hour back at your home base.

Start with a 1.8 mile crescent metal loop.

Through wild flowers and hit Tharpe's log,

a 2.9 mile path through giant groves with some of the oldest trees in the park.

This trail lets you get up close and personal to those giant sequoias,

and that forest smell you wish you could bottle.

It's the largest tree in the world by volume.