One of our favorite secret gems in the Bay Area is the Portola Redwoods State Park. Every time we visit, there are no other people on the trails. Literally. No one. I mean, we see some cars in the parking lot, but we always seem to be the only people hiking.We love counting the banana slugs on the trails and spotting deer families and birds. The drive up to the park, though a little long and winding, is also just gorgeous with sweeping views of green and plenty of little vista stops for your viewing pleasure.
This place is a great place to get away from everything and take a breath. There a ton of trails, easy to strenuous, to choose from. Places like these really makes me appreciate living in beautiful Northern California.