Summer doesn’t officially begin for a few weeks, but triple-digit temperatures are already heating up the Valley. If you’re looking to trade the heat for a quiet place to cool off, look no further than AAA Via magazine suggestions for getaways that beckon travelers to hike, paddle and soak in serenity.
Napa River
California’s Napa River provides a variety of recreation opportunities. The river’s lower section has flatwater, which makes it perfect for canoeing and sea kayaking. Visitors can glide past fields of merlot and chardonnay grapes while marveling at Mount Tamalpais. The Napa River Ecological Reserve is just a few miles away, and is a great stop for hiking, fishing and wildlife watching. When you’re done hiking or paddling, head into town and visit one of the area’s nearly 200 wineries.
Webber Lake
Until last year, this lake in the Tahoe National Forest was a private resort. Now, the pristine pond at the headwaters of the Little Truckee River is open to the public, and offers a gentle stretch of water for paddlers, waders and anyone with a penchant for trout fishing. Campgrounds have recently been rehabilitated, and this summer marks the first full camping season open to the public.
C.C. Cragin Reservoir
Formerly known as the Blue Ridge Reservoir, this narrow, picturesque waterway takes a winding path among the secluded, pine-covered slopes in the Coconino National Forest. Motors max out at 10 horsepower, helping to keep the aquamarine water calm and quiet for solitude seekers and stargazers who come for memorable moonrises.
Before you go, don't forget to call and check water levels, fire restrictions and accessibility.
For more information on these and other rivers and lakes that made the list, visit ViaMagazine.com. And don’t forget to share your travel adventures with Via on social media by using #ViaAdventure.
