Northern California is a treasure trove of breathtaking places waiting to be explored. The region boasts an abundance of stunning scenery, offering a diverse range of experiences for every adventurer. The journey from the picturesque farmlands just beyond Sacramento and Stockton to the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains, or meander along the rugged coastline that stretches for miles. Northern California unfolds as a canvas of varied landscapes, catering to enthusiasts of the beach, mountains, or countryside alike. Whatever your preference, this state invites you to discover its beauty through a curated collection of 15 mesmerizing photographs. These stunning photos of Northern California will make you feel proud of your state, and maybe even inspire your next trip!
1. Glen Alpine Falls
Glen Alpine Falls, 1580 Glen Alpine Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150, USA
This stunning out-of-the-way falls is reachable by
a 6.8-mile hike . A short drive from South Lake Tahoe, and just past Fallen Leaf Lake, the falls are a sight to behold!
2. Hope Valley
Hope Valley, CA 96120, USA
Hope Valley is a must-see destination during the fall. You'll feel as though you've stepped into a painting as the leaves change to brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and red during the autumn months.
3. Goose Lake Lookout
Goose Lake Lookout, US-395, Davis Creek, CA 96108, USA
In the northeast corner of California, you'll find high elevation plains and lakes. Take in the scenery from Goose Lake Lookout in Davis Creek.
4. Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge
Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge, 4009 Hill Rd, Tulelake, CA 96134, USA
This wildlife refuge located on the border of Oregon is a bird-watchers paradise. Within Klamath, there are many hiking trails, as well as places to see on kayak or canoe.
5. Chilcoot Venton
Chilcoot Venton is a census-designated place in Plumas County, Located northwest of Reno, you could easily drive right past this sleepy area of the state. There's not much to see in this small area, but the train tracks provide a beautiful backdrop for photos.
6. Trinity River in Lewiston
Trinity River, California, USA
One of the most incredible places to enjoy the Trinity River is the small town of
Lewiston in Northern California. This is a very green area of California, with many streams weaving through the landscape.
7. Leviathan Peak
Leviathan Peak, California, USA
Located near Markleeville in Alpine County, Leviathan Peak is a rugged mountainous area. Visitors can challenge themselves to the
8.6-mile loop trail that rewards hikers with stunning views of the high-altitude scenery.
8. Montague
Have you heard of the Montague Hot Air Balloon Fair? This fall event is just one reason to visit this tiny Northern California town. Located about 30 minutes south of the Oregon border, this sleepy town is a great place to get away from it all.
9. Anchors Away Beach
Anchors Away Beach, Pacific Grove, CA 93950, USA
This small beach in
Pacific Grove is the perfect escape from the crowds of Monterey. Anchors Away Beach is a small stretch of sand overlooking blue waters. Located next to a suburban area, this hidden little beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the water.
10. Tomales Point
Tomales Point, California 94937, USA
Few places in Northern California are as stunning as
Point Reyes National Seashore . However, most people don't visit the northernmost part of the seashore. Tomales Point is reachable by a
9.5-mile hike . The scenery is so worth it!
11. Laguna Point in Fort Bragg
Laguna Point, Fort Bragg, CA 95437, USA
This scenic spot in
Mendocino County is a great place to go tide-pooling. Laguna Point is reachable by elevated wooden platforms that traverse the marshy wetlands on the walk to the shore.
12. Davenport
North of Santa Cruz, along the California coastline, is the census-designated area of Davenport. With just a couple of restaurants, a bakery, and an art gallery, the main reason to stop in Davenport is the beach. Davenport Beach is a scenic destination surrounded by cliffs and with remnants of an
old pier . Enjoy watching the sunset on this serene beach!
13. Old Sacramento
Old Sacramento, Sacramento, CA, USA
This historic riverfront old town is located right next to California's capital city. Old Sacramento has many well-preserved Gold Rush-era buildings that are home to some excellent restaurants and charming boutiques. It's so well preserved, it feels like you're stepping onto a movie set!
14. Endert Beach
Endert Beach, California 95548, USA
We love this beach just south of Crescent City! Like a true Northern California beach, the weather here is often overcast, creating a moody atmosphere that's perfect for a calm beach day. Surrounded by hills of green, this beach is a sight to see!
15. Collinsville
Can you even believe this is California? This rural community is located at the mouth of the Sacramento River on the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. If you're a photographer or a fan of stunning sunsets, take a trip to this rural area.
There is so much to see and experience in Northern California. Tell us about a place in Northern California that you plan to visit this year!
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