Outdoor Activities

With so much holiday fun, maybe now is the time to take a moment and head outside.  Nevada City & Grass Valley have a lots of options for outdoor activities (and even a few indoor activities).  While you can hike, bike and explore in Nevada City, if you’re looking to head up the hill and play in the snow, don’t forget about all the amazing winter adventures within an hour of Nevada City.  One of our favorite recommendations from the Outside Inn is to head down to the Deer Creek Tribute Trail (pictured above), the suspension bridge gives you an element of adventure, but with the trail so close to town you don’t have to drive to get to the trailhead.  Several of favorite recommendations include Hirschman Pond, hiking along the South Yuba Trail, Buttermilk Bend, the extensive network of trails at Empire Mine State Park.  If the New Year is inspiring you to do a 5K or half marathon, think about joining the Trkac running group for some added support.

With the recent rains you may think that cycling season is over, but remember, there are cycling adventures year round.  A popular choice is the Hoot Trail off the Pioneer Trail on Highway 20 for all ages.  For more information on local trails or your chance to get involved with BONC (Bicyclists of Nevada County) and join a trail building day.  Otherwise you can check out the Tour of Nevada City group rides or start your training for the YBONC California Dirt MTB Series in the spring.

On a rainy day if you’re looking to get a little extra energy out think about checking out the Gold Crush indoor rock climbing, take a yoga class, swim laps at the South Yuba Club, take a Jazzercise glass, Fusion Dance Fitness class, try pilates or aerial yoga.  With so many options to get moving, what’s your favorite option?

For those who joined us this year on the collaboration with Folk Trails Hiking Club for urban hikes with local history, stay tuned for the 2019 schedule, we’ve got more fun in store for the New Year.  Other opportunities to connect with folks and learn while enjoying the outdoors include Bear Yuba Land Trust Treks, Hiking For Good, First Day Hike at Malakoff Diggins.  My other personal favorite is the self guided walking tour of downtown Nevada City.  What’s your favorite?  Any must dos I’ve forgotten to mention?

And don’t forget there’s still time to enter the Outside Inn’s blog Holiday Giveaway, a great holiday gift for one lucky person.  Many, many, many thanks to all the folks who have entered so far, it’s such a gift to me to read so many positive responses.