Are you ready to uncover some hidden gems of Northern California? We sure hope you are, because this road trip is not messing around! Spanning 870 miles for a total trip time of 18 hours, this road trip is perfect for a long weekend (or an entire week if you want to take your time.) It will take you to some of the best-kept secrets of Northern California, including caverns, waterfalls, bridges, beaches, mines, and so much more. There's something for everyone, so gather the family and hit the road for this epic adventure. To help with your planning, be sure to use our ultimate road trip packing list.
First up, we're starting off our adventure at the magical destination that is Fern Canyon. Tucked away in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, this lush canyon never ceases to amaze. From the fern and moss-covered canyon walls to the elegant stream of water that flows through the narrow canyon, Fern Canyon is one of Northern California's greatest natural wonders. It's one of the best kept secrets in Northern California and a perfect place to start this unforgettable adventure!
Next, we're headed north to Crescent City where we'll visit the incredible Battery Point Lighthouse. Constructed in 1856, Battery Point was one of the very first lighthouses on the California coast - pretty impressive, right? It even survived a tsunami caused by the 1964 Alaska earthquake, the strongest earthquake ever recorded in the northern hemisphere. The lighthouse is open to the public daily from April through September and on weekends only from October through March. The lighthouse even includes a museum where you can get a glimpse at what life was like for a lighthouse keeper back in the day. One of the true hidden gems in Northern California!
For the next stop on the trip, we're headed to the northeastern corner of the state to visit a vastly underrated national monument. Located in Siskiyou and Modoc counties, Lava Beds National Monument is a fascinating treasure that's worth going out of your way to explore. Home to more than 800 lava tubes, 25 of which have marked entrances and developed trails, this is a great place to explore a side to Northern California that few have seen. Additionally, you'll find Native American rock art, historic battlefields, and high-desert campsites all waiting for you at this remote national park. Learn more about this geologic wonder by checking out one of the best Northern California hidden gems.
After Lava Beds, we'll start heading south towards Mount Shasta to see the incredible Faery Falls. This waterfall may not be as well-known as some others in the area, but it's a beautiful attraction that does not disappoint. You'll find it tucked away in Ney Springs Canyon, where you'll also find the long-abandoned remnants of a hot spring resort! The short, 1.5-mile hike is a relatively easygoing hike that's suitable for all skill levels. At the end, you'll be treated to a front-facing view of this brilliant cascade as it plummets 50 feet into the pool below. Plan your visit to one of the best kept secrets in Northern California today!
After enjoying the tranquil views of Faery Falls, we'll head straight to one of the most unique landscapes that NorCal has to offer. Lake Shasta Caverns is located in the foothills of Mt. Shasta. As the West's newest National Natural Landmark, this is a one-of-a-kind adventure that a lot of people don't even know about! The two-hour tour of the caverns is like three adventures in one, as it consists of a boat ride across Shasta Lake, a scenic bus tour, and a guided tour of the mindblowing caverns underneath the surface. This is one of the hidden gems in Northern California and a bucket list experience.
After all that excitement at Lake Shasta Caverns, we're ready to take it easy with a visit to Turtle Bay Exploration Park in Redding. This 300-acre park and museum boast a scenic location along the banks of the Sacramento River. The different activities at the park bridge the relationship between humans and nature through a variety of educational exhibits. You could spend a whole day exploring the art exhibits, wildlife exhibits, Native American history, and California's largest North American butterfly house. Be sure to walk across the world-famous Sundial Bridge and enjoy a meal at the Turtle Bay Café, too. Enjoy this family-friendly park, and one of the underrated places in Northern California.
Now it's time to explore what California is most famous for: Gold! Empire Mine State Park is home to the oldest, deepest, and richest gold mines in all of California. Located in Grass Valley, the mine was in operation for longer than a century and extracted millions of ounces of gold before closing in 1956. At the park, visitors can explore old mine buildings, the owner's home and gardens, and the entrance to 367-miles of abandoned mine shafts. For a unique hike in the park that showcases the park's greatest relics, visit one of the best hidden gems of Northern California.
No road trip through Northern California is complete without a visit to a redwood forest. On this trip, we're headed to Navarro River Redwoods State Park. As far as redwoods go, this is one of the Northern California hidden gems where you can enjoy the majestic beauty of these giant trees in peace and quiet. Explore the rolling hills of Anderson Valley and enter an 11-mile-long "redwood tunnel to the sea." along Highway 128. Then, take your time picnicking, camping, hiking, or just soaking in the otherworldly beauty. There's no place like the redwoods!
After getting our fill of redwoods, we'll head to the beach for some much-needed coastal beauty. Manchester State Park is located in Mendocino County and it's a magnificent place to relax and enjoy the view of ocean waves. Featuring a beach, sand dunes, and flat grasslands, it's easy to lose track of time in such a scenic destination. Even though this is one of the underrated places in Northern California, this park is still popular for its variety of coastal wildflowers and excellent steelhead fishing in both Brush Creek and Alder Creek.
Finally, we'll end our road trip with a bang at Sonoma Zipline Adventures in Occidental. This adventure park is an absolute blast and it's bound to get your adrenaline pumping. Take on zip lines, sky bridges, and spiral staircases to explore the treetops. They even offer a Night Flight Tour for an unforgettable experience underneath the starry sky! Check out one of the hidden gems of Northern California and discover what Sonoma Zipline Adventures has to offer.
What do you think? Are you ready to tackle the Ultimate Hidden Gems of Northern California Tour Road Trip? In the comments below let us know what stop looks most interesting to you or if you have been to any of these best-kept secrets of Northern California!
There’s something about the desert that ignites me—the stark, unfiltered beauty stretching across the landscape of the American Southwest. Growing up amid New Jersey's dense forests and rolling mountains, I was always drawn to places rich with nature’s variety. And now, as an adult, I’m always itching to escape Florida’s thick humidity any chance I can. The arid deserts of the continental U.S. now feel like a second home, a place where I can breathe more deeply.
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I’m one of five siblings scattered from coast to coast, and with each visit west, I eagerly plan new adventures with my siblings there. Recently, we gathered in the wild, iconic terrain of Joshua Tree. We rented a house right in the heart of the desert, our own small retreat under endless skies. The days were a mosaic of exploration and the quiet enchantment of desert living—a chance to feel both boundless freedom and the warmth of family as we rediscovered the quiet, mystical allure of the desert together.
Marisa Roman/Only In Your State
For this trip, solitude wasn’t just a preference; it was essential. I craved a place where silence reigned, broken only by the wind sweeping through the sagebrush, where the only lights in view were a scattering of distant homes twinkling like stars against the dark outline of the mountains. I found exactly what I was searching for—and then some—in a breathtaking VRBO rental, Gypsy Haven JT. This bohemian desert escape came with everything I could have hoped for, including a hot tub perfectly situated for stargazing. It was the ultimate sanctuary, a haven where I could immerse myself in the vast beauty of the desert, feeling worlds away from the everyday.
Marisa Roman/Only In Your State
Beyond the sweeping desert views and jaw-dropping sunsets, a few experiences from that trip stand out in my memory. One of my favorites was our hike to the famous Skull Rock in Joshua Tree National Park. Armed with my sister's National Parks Pass, we entered the park and meandered down winding two-lane roads, captivated by colossal rock formations that felt like ancient giants frozen in time. The trail to Skull Rock stretched just under two miles, leading us to the rock itself—a haunting, naturally sculpted “skull” formed over millennia by relentless wind and water erosion. The adventure was more than worth it. If you go, be sure to stick to the trail and carry plenty of water—the journey is as memorable as the destination.
Marisa Roman/Only In Your State
Marisa Roman/Only In Your State
Another unforgettable stop after our hike was - Mas o Menos, a tucked-away gem off 29 Palms Highway. This spot had everything you’d hope to find after a day of desert adventure: lightning-fast WiFi, expertly crafted coffee, and cocktails that hit the mark. I tried my first “Spaghett” here—a refreshing twist on the classic with Miller High Life and a splash of Aperol—and it was as delightful as I’d heard. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back spot to unwind or a scenic view to savor the desert sunset, Mas o Menos is the ideal spot for post-hike drinks.
Marisa Roman/Only In Your State
At night, we went up into the mountains to Pioneertown and caught a show at Pappy and Harriet’s, a beloved roadhouse-style bar, restaurant, and music venue. With a reputation for Tex-Mex barbecue and historic Old West ambiance, the draw for many to this gem is the live music, often hosting surprise performances from big-name artists. Pappy & Harriet’s is a unique cultural gem blending desert charm with a vibrant nightlife scene.
Marisa Roman/Only In Your State
All in all, this trip was one of my most cherished desert escapes. Perhaps it was the timing—a meteor shower we’d planned around to experience the sky at its most spectacular, with almost no light pollution and endless, unobstructed views. Or maybe it was the raw, unfiltered nature of the desert itself, a place that makes you deeply aware of your heartbeat and the rhythm of your breath. Whatever it was, this journey was unforgettable, etched into memory as one of those rare experiences that leaves you longing to return.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
