Movies and the great outdoors combine for some best supporting scenery, including dunes for days and Death Valley's surreal-scape (and the new but temporary lake, Manly). In this episode, Holly and Brad discuss several sand dune sites to adventure at, plus the ethereal nature of Death Valley National Park, which is spring-primed. Find out the best spots there for private sunset viewings; where to get stellar vistas of the park's temporary phenomenon, Manly Lake (which reflects Telescope Peak and the Panamint mountains); and the best way to stargaze in this dark sky destination. Later in the po ..read more

Dune 2 is the big blockbuster in theaters, but with a break in rain and cooler weather now's a great time to head outdoors to explore some of California's best dunes, including less known places, best for sunsets, and--bonus--the Oregon sand dunes that inspired the novel Dune. In this episode, Brad and Holly talk about some of these surreal sandscapes, in addition to other outdoor adventures that are good post-rains, what it means to hurkle-durkle, and Big Bear’s famous bald eagle pair—Jackie and Shadow. Later in the podcast, they are joined by Janice Lim, founder of the travel blog WheresJani ..read more

With the holiday season full steam ahead, Brad and Holly are joined by Weekend Sherpa contributing content creator Yvonne Pasquini, talking about what to do outdoors with friends, family, furry pals, or going solo this season. From day trips with apple cider, donuts, wine, bike trails, and beers, to the best fall foliage, sunset spots, picnic areas, stairway hikes, beaches, and festive restaurants, here's a collage of California fun. Follow Yvonne Pasquini @yvonne_pasquini Links to a few of the places discussed: NorCal El Dorado Bike Trail Apple Hill Adventures Purisima Creek Redwoods Windy ..read more

What's brewing? How about some hikes with spirits (actually, beer!), or adventures with just a bit of ghostly presence, but mostly just really good hikes and adventures to do in fall. This podcast edition is like a variety-bag of Halloween candy: lots of options! From NorCal best beaches to where to find the best waterfalls now that there's been some rain, plus redwoods, tarantulas, and a bonus pop-up nature event happening on Halloween, get your fill of fall fun. SoCal-based Weekend Sherpa writer Matt Pawlik also joins the podcast, providing the scoop on some secret hikes (with beer bonuses ..read more

Like chicken soup for the soul, there are some hikes that just deliver comfort in their familiarity and natural beauty—from iconic views, ocean scenery, wildlife sightings, and locations within national, state and regional parks. Brad and Holly talk about some "comfort food" day hikes and backpacking trails to do in California and a few points beyond (Wyoming), including a 3-beach day hike in the Marin Headlands that's panoramic buffet of coastal bliss. They also discuss the challenges and devastation of wildfires, as well as party fouls happening on the camping scene ..read more

Sunny days are ahead! In this episode, Holly and Brad, along with Weekend Sherpa team adventurers, Ellen and Scott, talk about a very recent trip to Sun Valley, Idaho. This is a place where nature is nurture, and wellness is found in everything from alpine peak hikes to sublime car-free bike rides, botanical gardens, and free outdoor yoga at Bald Mountain. There's also stellar sunsets, starry nights, terrific dining, and the vibrancy of community events like Ketch'em Alive, where everyone gathers for live music and food and drink trucks galore. Sun Valley is how to do summer right! See detail ..read more

A few years ago, legislation passed to allow the killing of native Tule Elk in Point Reyes National Seashore amid pressure from the ranching community, who want room for their cattle to graze and roam. Cows outnumber Tule Elk by a factor of 10 to 1 in Point Reyes. Brought back from the edge of extinction, today the Tule Elk are again threatened … in a national seashore where commercial private gain is winning out against what national parks are supposed to do: protect and preserve the natural environment. The controversy surrounding Bill HR6687, sponsored by Democratic member of Congress Jared ..read more

Is there a city with easier access to the great outdoors than Reno? In just 15 minutes you can be on the mountain trails. Or you can stay in town and wander the beside the Truckee River on the Riverwalk. In this episode Brad and Holly are joined by author and Weekend Sherpa contributing writer Nicol Szanto, a Reno local. They talk about Weekend Sherpa's recent trip to Reno, including best hikes, art walks, the newest section of city to see Burning Man installations and vintage neon signs, as well as where to go throw an axe for fun, and top spots to eat and drink in Reno's hugely up and coming ..read more

Make a date with the great outdoors and bring along whoever you love (or just like a lot). In this episode, Brad and Holly and Weeknd Sherpa contributing writer Ben Replogle discuss close-to-home and off-the-beaten-path adventures in California: from a hike in San Francisco with a new work of "heart" overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge, hikes with early wildflowers in Napa, bike rides with beaches and picnic stops, hiking to Joshua Tree's hidden old miner's cabin, and plenty more. Plus Brad and Holly discuss their recent trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, including tips on Volcanoes National Par ..read more

Death Valley reopens, Mount Diablo's "gated" community controversy, and all the hidden-gem ways to find some Zen this autumn in beautiful Monterey ... it's glow time! And that includes the brilliant bloody-belly comb jelly at Monterey Bay Aquarium's incredible new exhibit, Into the Deep. Brad and Holly are joined by the Aquarium's Ken Peterson and Allen Protasio, who share an ocean's worth of knowledge and tips on where to go and what to "sea" at the Aquarium, on sustainability initiatives for a better future, and on nearby hiking and biking trails, including a few truly hidden gems for birdwa ..read more