10 Best Small Towns in Northern California for Outdoor Enthusiasts

The upper half of the Golden State houses an array of charming small towns teeming with spectacular natural scenery, presenting the perfect playground for outdoorsy travelers. Whether embarking on a hiking expedition along isolated nature trails, taking on the whitewater on an adventurous rafting excursion, backpacking in the lush countryside to discover natural gems, or simply taking in the beautiful scenes from a vantage point, Northern California offers endless possibilities. Fortunately, options abound for outdoor enthusiasts visiting the state. You’ll come across little-known gems in the heart of California’s backcountry with captivating history, rich culture, and majestic natural scenery waiting to be explored. From the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the dense thicket of redwood forests, here are some of the best towns in Northern California for outdoor lovers.

Trinidad

The charming coastal village of Trinidad, where imposing redwoods interact with the scenic Northern California Coast, is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise. Home to less than 500 residents, it is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes that get you lost in Mother Nature’s bounty. At Sue-Meg State Park, you can make the most of a 640-acre natural space on the Redwood Coast to hike through lush forested surroundings or camp in the great California outdoors. For beachgoers, the Trinidad State Beach provides a long stretch of powdery white shore with breathtaking views of the Pacific. 

But Trinidad also boasts a rich history worth uncovering if you are not reveling in its exciting open spaces. Being the earliest human settlement on the NorCal coast, you will find an impressive collection of artifacts at the Trinidad Museum featuring Native American exhibits that preserve the heritage of the first settlers in the area. 

Grass Valley

Discover California’s rich gold rush heritage in this quaint little town in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. During its heyday, Grass Valley boasted some of the richest mines of all gold mining towns in the state. You can explore this part of its history at the Empire Mine State Historic Park, which hosts California's wealthiest, oldest, and deepest gold mines. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this is an excellent opportunity to explore over a century of California’s mining history. Grass Valley is also home to Condon Park, an escape for outdoor enthusiasts looking to make the most of hiking, disc golfing, and sightseeing opportunities. Alternatively, you can check out the beautiful Nevada County Fairgrounds, a popular local meeting point with imposing pine trees, well-manicured lawns, and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a casual day out. 

Mendocino

This picturesque seaside community puts you in the perfect position to explore northern California’s stunning beach scenery, thanks to the many state parks dotting the town. A great example is Mendocino Headlands State Park, which offers 347 acres of rugged seaside bluffs, secluded beaches, and isolated trails. You can find more outdoor opportunities at Big River Beach, a sprawling white sand beach surrounded by dramatic cliffs, presenting the ideal atmosphere for sunbathing, picnicking, and lounging. Those who fancy hiking will gravitate towards Russian Gulch State Park, home to 15 miles of scenic trails through a mix of open coastal hikes and dense forests. 

But the open spaces aren’t the only thing to look forward to in Mendocino. History buffs can explore interesting gems at the Kelley House Museum, a 19th-century historic mansion in the middle of the town’s historic district offering a look into the bygone eras. Meanwhile, art lovers can browse unique exhibits at the Mendocino Art Center. 

Nevada City

Steeped in captivating gold rush history and surrounded by lush forests and exciting outdoor adventurers, Nevada City promises an unforgettable experience for historians and nature enthusiasts. It is an easy gateway to the Tahoe National Forest, which harbors recreational opportunities like hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Strolling through the Deer Creek Tribute Trail is one of the best ways to experience Nevada City’s beautiful open spaces. However, those who fancy a wilder adventure can head to the Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park and discover the state’s largest hydraulic mining site. 

When not exploring the impressive outdoors, you can discover historical gems at the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum, which exhibits old photographs, artifacts, and other memorabilia preserving the town’s railroad heritage. Elsewhere, you can stop by the historic Nevada Theater to catch a moving live performance in California’s oldest theater building. 

Eureka

This Northern California port city beckons all outdoor adventurers with endless opportunities, from hiking and camping to kayaking and surfing. Highlights include Sequoia Park, a 67-acre nature center with lovely hiking and biking trails through a lush old-growth redwood forest with pristine meadows and ponds. Just next to the park, you will encounter the Sequoia Park Zoo, home to the longest skywalk in Western America. At the Redwood Skywalk, thrill seekers venture 100 feet above the forest floor with a rare opportunity to witness the amazing ecology of the world’s tallest trees. 

Besides its forested surroundings, Eureka presents a beautiful historical experience thanks to several gems, including Fort Humboldt State Historic Park, a remote military station from 1853. The Morris Graves Museum of Art makes for a more enticing prospect for art lovers, housing Pacific Northwest artwork in a 1902 neoclassical building. 

Sonoma

Sonoma stands out for its colonial-era Plaza, quaint art galleries, and wine-tasting opportunities. This historic village lies in the famous Sonoma Valley winemaking region, home to a string of wineries and tasting rooms. For wine lovers, you can sample the local wine scene at the Buena Vista Winery, a historic establishment with idyllic picnic spots and tasting areas. For the outdoor inclined, you will find a pleasant hike along the Sonoma Overlook Trail, which passes through grasslands and meadows while offering sweeping views of the Sonoma Valley. 

For the town’s rich historical heritage, remember to tour the Sonoma State Historic Park, where you can witness Mission San Francisco Solano, the only mission constructed in Alta California after Mexico’s independence from Spain. You will also be intrigued by the 1835 Sonoma Plaza, built by the town’s founder and claims to be the largest plaza in California. 

Weaverville

Weaverville’s location in the Trinity Alps offers adventurers access to multiple wilderness spaces like the Shasta-Trinity National Forests, making it one of the best towns in Northern California for outdoor lovers. The town also hosts several historical gems, such as the Weaverville Joss House State Historic Park, California’s oldest-running Chinese temple. Here, you can browse a collection of antique mining tools, old art objects, and old-world weapons, offering a glimpse into Chinese culture. Downtown Weaverville delights with a nice mix of shops, restaurants, and art galleries, highlighted by the Jake Jackson Memorial Museum. 

Those with a penchant for the outdoors will enjoy exploring the Trinity Alps wilderness with the Ascend Wilderness Experience, which organizes fun hiking excursions. Finally, craft beer enthusiasts can pop into the Trinity County Brewing Company to sample the local brewery scene. 

Sierra City

This picturesque alpine village sits at a 4,147-foot elevation, presenting sweeping views of the pristine natural surroundings punctuating its open spaces. It offers access to multiple wilderness areas, including the Tahoe National Forest, home to endless outdoor opportunities, from hiking and camping to mountain biking and wildlife viewing. If you are interested in water-based recreation, you can find plenty at the sprawling Packer Lake, featuring swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking. 

Meanwhile, don’t forget to soak in some of the best views in the town at the Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout, but be prepared for a 5-mile hike and climb to the vantage point. Besides the outdoors, you can look into the local mining history at the Kentucky Mine Museum. This small yet impressive facility houses several artifacts and memorabilia telling the story of Sierra City’s mining past. 

Ferndale

This historic Humboldt County village is known for whale-watching opportunities and a charming downtown with a bustling art scene. You are best placed to explore California’s pristine coast at the Centerville Beach County Park, a 9-mile stretch of sand marked by gorgeous Pacific Ocean scenery. Along the 1,320-foot Fernbridge, which straddles the Eel River, you can take advantage of spectacular photo opportunities on a historic town landmark dating back to 1911. The site is also perfect for taking in some of the best views of the surrounding landscapes. 

For lovers of the outdoors, numerous hiking opportunities await at the 105-acre Russ Park, which features multiple nature trails through forested areas and a wealth of wildlife offering exciting bird-watching adventures. But for history enthusiasts, the Ferndale Museum is where you go to uncover rich Victorian-era and California gold rush history. 

Chester

Chester spoils outdoorsy travelers with endless open spaces, highlighted by the sprawling Lake Almanor. This hidden gem in northeast California presents the ideal environment for adventurers, with opportunities for boating, swimming, kayaking, and a raft of other water-based recreations. For a more family-friendly option, you can check out the 3-acre Almanor Recreation & Park District, which houses multiple sheltered picnic areas, peaceful walking paths, and all-weather game facilities to keep everyone in the family busy and entertained. 

Those looking to explore the town’s history can visit Collins Pine Museum to look into its lumbering heritage from the ‘40s through the ‘60s. The quaint museum exhibits old equipment and antique trucks used during the peak of the local lumbering trade. 

Final Thoughts

Whether looking to soak in spectacular ocean vistas, hike through towering redwoods, or kayak along quiet river waters, these charming towns in Northern California deliver exciting natural landscapes tailored to the outdoorsy inclined. Boasting a small-town vibe and easygoing adventures in the open spaces, they present a remarkable vacation experience any season of the year.