Although California is known for being a summer destination, true Northern Californians know that winter is a magical time for this state! From towns that turn into winter wonderlands to incredibly picturesque winter hiking trails, there’s always a winter adventure to be had. Northern California is full of amazing destinations and experiences during this time of year. Check out these 7 day trips you have to experience during winter in Northern California. Adventures await!

1. Visit the one town that turns into a winter wonderland every year.
Truckee, CA 96161, USA
Bruce Cooper/Wikimedia Commons
Not many places in Northern California look like something out of a Christmas movie. However, the town of Truckee really does turn into a winter wonderland every year. As the snow begins to fall, this place begins to look like a scene from inside of a snow globe. With plenty of recreational opportunities at the various ski resorts nearby, it's the perfect town to visit if you're looking for a typical snowy winter experience. Learn more about planning your visit to this delightful small town in Northern California.
2. Take a mountain getaway.
Doug Jones/Flickr
True Northern Californians know that our state isn't just comprised of bustling cities and tourist attractions. In fact, there are plenty of picturesque resort towns that are perfect for your next winter getaway. We compiled a list of the most beautiful towns that are perfect for seeking refuge during the cold winter months. These secluded mountain towns are totally surrounded by natural beauty and are perfect for taking in the winter scenery. For more information, check out our list of winter-friendly towns in Northern California that you'll immediately fall in love with.
3. Visit a Christmas town.
Placerville, CA 95667, USA
Placerville Downtown Association/Facebook
We may not get picture perfect white Christmases here, but that doesn't mean we don't love the holidays. Many small Northern Californian towns show their love for Christmas by turning into miniature Christmas wonderlands every year. Visiting one of these magical towns during winter is the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit. Check out our complete list of Northern California's Best Christmas Towns.

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4. Go on a scenic winter hike.
LassenNPS/Flickr
When it comes to winter day trips in Northern California, anything that involves the great outdoors is an excellent idea. Hiking isn't just for summer. In fact it's a pretty extraordinary activity during winter, as well. There's no better way of taking in our state's beautiful winter sights than by taking advantage of a winter hiking trail. Even when the skies are grey and weather is gloomy, these hiking trails are picture perfect all year long. Learn more about Northern California's best winter hiking trails.
5. Go and see the snow.
Bill Couch/Flickr
There are plenty of places during winter in Northern California that get a good amount of fluffy white snow. Traveling to one of these snowy locations is the perfect winter activity. Curious to learn more? Check out our complete list of the snowiest places in Northern California.
6. Experience some holiday lights.
Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, 18220 CA-1, Fort Bragg, CA 95437, USA
Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens/Facebook
Gorgeous holiday light displays are scattered all over Northern California. Going out and becoming mesmerized by these dazzling displays are one of the best parts about the winter season. Some of the most epic holiday light displays include Global Winter Wonderland in Sacramento and Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens Festival of Lights. This is an activity that absolutely must go on your winter bucket list. Check out Northern California's best Christmas light displays.
7. Slide down this epic snow tubing hill.
Soda Springs Mountain Resort, 10244 Soda Springs Rd, Soda Springs, CA 95728, USA
JohnMichaelsDad/TripAdvisor
You don't have to be a professional skier in order to enjoy winter in Northern California's snowy mountain scenery. There's a massive snow tubing hill right here in California and it's the perfect way to spend a winter day. Tube Town at Soda Springs Resort contains 20 400-foot tubing lanes that you'll absolutely love speeding down like a maniac. Learn more about why this epic snow tubing hill in Northern California belongs on your winter bucket list.

Doesn’t sound like a delightful winter bucket list? What day trips during winter in Northern California would you add? Let us know in the comment section. We would love to hear from you!

When the holidays quickly approach, don’t forget to check out 10 Things Every Northern Californian Should Do Before Christmas.

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winter day trips in Northern California

Beth C. | December 15, 2021

What is the snowiest town in Northern California?

California may be known for its endless sunshine, but if you're visiting Northern California, you should know that this region can experience its fair share of winter weather. That's especially true north of Lake Tahoe in an area called Truckee. A few facts about Truckee:

  • This scenic destination is beloved among skiers and snowboarders alike.
  • On average, Truckee receives just over 200 inches of snow per year.
  • The average winter temperature is 17-42 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Truckee is just 200 miles northeast of San Francisco.
  • Most buildings downtown are over 100 years old.

 

Where can I go hiking in Northern California in the winter?

Northern California is one of the most naturally beautiful regions in North America. Winter can be an especially memorable time to go hiking in Northern California, and some favorite trails include:

  • Lost Coast Trail in Ferndale. Measuring nearly 25 miles, this makes for an excellent multi-day trek.
  • Arcata Community Forest Loop is a picture-perfect 4.1-mile loop that doesn't require too much effort.
  • Grand Loop Trail at Mount Diablo State Park. This trail will give you a striking view of Sierra, Mount Shasta, and Mount Lassen.

Learn more about some of our favorite winter hiking trails in Northern California.

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