Explore 52

Below you will find a listing of areas to explore around your community.
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Local

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park

Go back in time to the Gold Rush in California!

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park

Go back in time to the Gold Rush in California!

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park – the spark that ignited the growth of the West

Go back in time to the Gold Rush in California!

Located in Coloma, California, along the American River, Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park commemorates James W. Marshall’s discovery of gold at Sutter’s Mill on January 24, 1848. This pivotal event sparked the Gold Rush, drawing thousands of fortune seekers to the West from around the world.

Step into the mid-19th century with a visit to the Gold Discovery Museum and Sutter’s Mill Replica, where historic buildings bring the Gold Rush era to life.

But why just observe history when you can experience it? Try your hand at panning for gold on the American River, just like the early prospectors. You can also enjoy scenic hiking trails and picturesque picnic spots along the river for a perfect day of exploration.

Things to know before you go:

  1. Park admission is $10 per car or $9 per car for visitors aged 62 and older.
  2. Closing times vary throughout the year, ranging from 5:00pm to 8:00pm, so be sure to check the schedule for your visit.
  3. If you want to pan for gold like a true pioneer, it costs an additional $10 per person and includes lessons. However, gold panning lessons and the Gold Discovery Tour are unavailable when temperatures exceed 92°F. Call 530.622.3470 in advance to confirm availability.
Getaway

Point Reyes National Seashore

Get a breath of fresh ocean air and discover over 1,500 species of plants and animals.

Point Reyes National Seashore

Get a breath of fresh ocean air and discover over 1,500 species of plants and animals.

Discover a diverse landscape at Point Reyes National Seashore

Get a breath of fresh ocean air and discover over 1,500 species of plants and animals.

Point Reyes National Seashore is a breathtaking coastal park located on the Point Reyes Peninsula in Marin County, California. It is known for its diverse landscapes, wildlife, recreational activities such as hiking, beaches, kayaking, and camping.

If physical outdoor activities aren’t really your thing, they have three Visitor Centers (Point Reyes Lighthouse, Bear Valley, and Kenneth C. Patrick) where you can explore and learn more about the local wildlife, culture, and history of the area.

At the Point Reyes Lighthouse you can see exhibits on the lighthouse (of course), marine life, and maritime history. The Bear Valley Visitor Center is the primary center and it offers a view of the park’s roads, trails, and human and natural history. An exhibit provides a glimpse of the diverse ecosystems and cultural heritage of the park. The Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center contains exhibits that focus on maritime exploration in the 1500s, marine fossils, and marine environments. You can even get a look at a Minke Whale skeleton, which is suspended from the ceiling.

Things to know before you go:

  1. The price to enter the preserve is usually complimentary, but be sure you check their website for any special events or guided tours which are an extra expense.
  2. If it is summer or winter, try to hold off on visiting until the spring or fall as the weather is more mild and the natural displays such as wildflowers are more vibrant.
  3. If you require special accessibility accommodations, many of the trails and facilities are accessible, but the Lighthouse requires navigating steep stairs.
  4. If you’re really looking to get a view from the Lighthouse, make sure you check the wind speeds before you get too excited as the stairs are only open when wind speeds remain below 40 mph (64 kmh).
Local

Folsom Lake

Just 30 minutes away, Folsom Lake offers the perfect getaway for outdoor adventure.

Folsom Lake

Just 30 minutes away, Folsom Lake offers the perfect getaway for outdoor adventure.

Camp, boat, hike, bike and fish at Folsom Lake!

Just 30 minutes away, Folsom Lake offers the perfect getaway for outdoor adventure.

Nestled at the base of the stunning Sierra foothills, Folsom Lake and its recreation area provide endless opportunities for both water and land activities such as:

  • Hiking
  • Biking
  • Running
  • Camping
  • Picnicking
  • Horseback riding
  • Water-skiing
  • Boating
  • Cycling
  • Fishing

Fishing enthusiasts will find this to be the ideal spot, with the lake containing  trout, catfish, largemouth and smallmouth bass, and perch. If you don’t have your own boat, rentals are available!

For cyclists, there’s a 32-mile bike path that connects Folsom Lake to Old Sacramento. The park also features Lake Natoma, just downstream from Folsom Lake, which is a popular location for crew races, sailing, kayaking, and other aquatic sports.

Things to know before you go:

  1. Daily park entry fees range from $10 to $12.

  2. Camping fees vary by campground, ranging from $12 to $195 per night, so planning ahead is recommended.

  3. A $10 launch fee applies to any boats brought or rented for use on the lake.

Local

Bobelaine Audubon Sanctuary

Observe over 200 species of birds along the West Bank of the Feather River.

Bobelaine Audubon Sanctuary

Observe over 200 species of birds along the West Bank of the Feather River.

Go Birding at Bobelaine Audubon Sanctuary

Observe over 200 species of birds along the West Bank of the Feather River.

Birding enthusiasts of all levels flock (see what we did there?) to the Bobelaine Audubon Sanctuary! Situated along the Pacific Flyway, a major migration route stretching from the Arctic tundra to the wetlands of South America, Sacramento is a true paradise for birdwatchers.

Here, you can spot an array of feathered friends, from Black-crowned Night Herons and Wood Ducks to Swainson’s Hawks, and beyond. Plus, you can connect with fellow birding enthusiasts on field trips throughout Sacramento County.

Not into birding? No problem! With over five miles of scenic trails winding through a mature oak forest, open grasslands, a lake, and riparian woodlands along the West Bank of the Feather River, there’s plenty to explore and enjoy.

Things to know before you go:

  1. To preserve the natural biodiversity of the sanctuary, dogs are not permitted on the grounds. Please leave them at home or with a trusted caregiver.
  2. If you’re birding for the first time, be sure to follow the American Birding Association’s Code of Birding Ethics to ensure the safety of both yourself and the birds.
  3. Due to the area’s rich biodiversity, trails and entrances may close temporarily due to weather events such as flooding. Be sure to check the sanctuary’s website before your visit.
Getaway

San Francisco

Head two hours west to discover a vibrant city rich with iconic landmarks and experiences!

San Francisco

Head two hours west to discover a vibrant city rich with iconic landmarks and experiences!

San Francisco, Home of America’s Only Moving National Landmark

Head two hours west to discover a vibrant city rich with iconic landmarks and experiences.

If you’re looking to plan a day trip or weekend getaway, San Francisco is an ideal destination. Just a two-hour drive from Lincoln, the city is rich in history and culture, boasting 318 landmarks and a vibrant food scene. Whether you’re indulging in local flavors or stepping back in time at a historic site, San Francisco promises an unforgettable experience.

Some of the most iconic landmarks/experiences include:

  • The Golden Gate Bridge and Golden Gate Park
  • Alcatraz Island
  • Fisherman’s Wharf
  • Cable Cars
  • Painted Ladies
  • Lombard Street

While these iconic spots are well-known, don’t hesitate to ask a local for hidden gems, San Franciscans take pride in their city and have the best food recommendations!

Things to know before you go:

  1. If touring Alcatraz is on your list, make sure you book a reservation ahead of time because slots fill up fast and it is known to be fully-booked for a month in advance!
  2. Make sure you bring a light jacket with you, it can get pretty nippy out.
  3. Save some money on those rideshare apps and utilize San Francisco’s great public transportation options like the BART and Muni. The Muni has one-day to three-day visitor passes that you can use to take their Metro, Buses, Streetcars, Cable Cars, and Trolleys.
  4. It’s highly recommended that you use rideshare apps, walk, bike, or use public transportation as cars are known to be targets of break-ins in San Francisco. If you need to drive your vehicle around the city, please make sure you don’t leave a single thing in sight. If there are items you would like to keep in the trunk, make sure you do so before you arrive at your destination as thieves are known to watch parking lots.

 With a little planning, your trip to San Francisco will be as seamless as it is exciting!

Getaway

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit "Getaway" if you're a nature lover.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit "Getaway" if you're a nature lover.

Seek adventure, tranquility, or inspiration at Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit “Getaway” if you’re a nature lover.

Renowned for its stunning landscapes, towering granite cliffs, ancient giant sequoias, and majestic waterfalls, Yosemite offers a breathtaking retreat into nature, teeming with diverse wildlife and a peaceful escape from everyday life.

Explore the breathtaking granite formations of El Capitan and Half Dome, the Yosemite Valley, and the panoramic views from Glacier Point. Visit Mariposa Grove, home to over 500 towering giant sequoias.

Whether you’re into hiking, rock climbing, camping, or photography, all 1,200 square miles of Yosemite offers endless adventure, including winter activities like snowshoeing and skiing at Badger Pass.

Things to know before you go:

  1. Reservations may be required on weekends and holidays during peak season, so be sure to book in advance.
  2. Arrive before 9:00am or after 5:00pm to beat the traffic and enjoy a less crowded experience.
  3. Bring your glasses and stay alert because wildlife is abundant, and traffic signs help ensure safety for both visitors and animals.
  4. Plan your route in advance, as some roads may close due to weather, and cellphone service is limited. A map can be a helpful investment.