Weekend Sherpa: Take It Outside

Reno Tahoe is one of the most beautiful places in the country, with its mountain-to-desert scenery, extensive hiking and biking system, along with pristine rivers and lakes! In this episode Brad and Holly talk with adventurer Jim Litchfield, owner of Reno Fly Shop. Jim's passion for rivers knows no bounds: he's fished in places near and far, including Alaska, Bolivia, and Christmas Island. But his favorite spot is home: Reno Tahoe’s Truckee River is premier for fly-fishing experiences and float adventures. Jim talks about his favorite local and international places to enjoy the art and sport of fly fishing. Re...

Camping on a remote coastal beach, bear sightings on a less remote coast (!), the possible forever closure of Yosemite’s High Sierra Camps’ tent cabins, and one of the best road trip vacations you can do that is sure to please everyone (even the dog!): Paso Robles! Paso is a down-to-earth revelation, home to one of the world’s coolest Lighted Art Shows (Sensorio), world-class and unpretentious wineries with full food menus; e-bike and side-car tours; a vibrant and creative downtown with a huge central park; great places to stay; and new experiences like guided horseback tours at a historic ranch...

Life can feel surreal. Being out into nature can provide a little nurture. Local and international travel can provide respite and perspective. And art and culture contribute to conversation and community. In this episode, Brad and Holly speak with artist and advocate Jesse James Ziegler, Reno's Poet Laureate, about his journeys in poetry, where he goes locally to find inspiration, and the thriving, supportive art community in Reno. Brad and Holly also talk about their recent Weekend Sherpa trip to a point beyond: Cambodia. Learn about how to see Angkor Wat by bike, the magnificent islands less traveled, and the...

In this episode Brad and Holly discuss the devastating fires in Los Angeles County. They are joined by LA-based Weekend Sherpa contributor Yvonne Pasquini, who talks about the impact of the fires and how Angelenos are navigating the aftermath. Holly and Brad also discuss past fires, including the 2017 fires in the North Bay of northern California, where they were mandatory evacuated in the middle of the night. Turning to a more uplifting topic, they talk about one of the gem destinations in northern California—Redding. Find out where to go and what to do in this sunny destination flanked by ic...

Travel shaming? That’s now a thing? Say it isn’t so! In this first episode of Take It Outside 2025, Brad and Holly discuss visiting Mexico City, tasting mezcal and cocktails at the bar named Best in the World, the Surgeon General’s alcohol warning (!), and whether or not travel truly changes a person. Plus, travel shaming—what the heck is that? In a year where we need more positive vibes, we’re sticking with why it’s good to get out and have experiences both locally and in points beyond. Later in the podcast, we talk with Marti Tedesco, Senior Manag...

In this special holiday episode, Brad and Holly catch up on their favorite local hikes this time of year, what festive libations they like, and "Christmas" movies (Die Hard, yes or no?). Then it's on to Reno Tahoe! Find out where Weekend Sherpa went and what adventures happened on their recent trip to Reno: hikes, hot soaks, après, and where to find the best outdoor gear at good prices. Later in the episode they're joined by Max Smith, vice president of Moment Skis, based in Reno. Employee owned, Moment Skis is carving out an independent and successful path as t...

Movies and the great outdoors combine for some best supporting scenery, including dunes for days and Death Valley's surreal-scape (and the new but temporary lake, Manly). In this episode, Holly and Brad discuss several sand dune sites to adventure at, plus the ethereal nature of Death Valley National Park, which is spring-primed. Find out the best spots there for private sunset viewings; where to get stellar vistas of the park's temporary phenomenon, Manly Lake (which reflects Telescope Peak and the Panamint mountains); and the best way to stargaze in this dark sky destination. Later in the pod, they are joined...

Dune 2 is the big blockbuster in theaters, but with a break in rain and cooler weather now's a great time to head outdoors to explore some of California's best dunes, including less known places, best for sunsets, and--bonus--the Oregon sand dunes that inspired the novel Dune. In this episode, Brad and Holly talk about some of these surreal sandscapes, in addition to other outdoor adventures that are good post-rains, what it means to hurkle-durkle, and Big Bear’s famous bald eagle pair—Jackie and Shadow. Later in the podcast, they are joined by Janice Lim, founder of the travel blog Wher...

There are all kinds of ways to "winter" in the West over the coming months, including some fantastic adventures in Yosemite National Park. In this episode, Brad and Holly discuss some of the season's best activities in Yosemite, home to California's first ski resort, the old-school and budget-friendly Badger Pass. There's also snowshoeing to panoramic Dewey Point, outdoor ice skating under a huge view of Half Dome (with a firepit and s'mores!), and lots more. Later in the pod they're joined by Lisa Cesaro from Aramark Destinations, discussing lakeview adventures in South Lake Tahoe, snowmobile safaris in Jackson, Wyoming, and...

With the holiday season full steam ahead, Brad and Holly are joined by Weekend Sherpa contributing content creator Yvonne Pasquini, talking about what to do outdoors with friends, family, furry pals, or going solo this season. From day trips with apple cider, donuts, wine, bike trails, and beers, to the best fall foliage, sunset spots, picnic areas, stairway hikes, beaches, and festive restaurants, here's a collage of California fun.

Follow Yvonne Pasquini @yvonne_pasquini

Links to a few of the places discussed:

NorCal
El Dorado Bike Trail
Apple Hill Adventures
Purisima...

Death Valley reopens, Mount Diablo's "gated" community controversy, and all the hidden-gem ways to find some Zen this autumn in beautiful Monterey ... it's glow time! And that includes the brilliant bloody-belly comb jelly at Monterey Bay Aquarium's incredible new exhibit, Into the Deep. Brad and Holly are joined by the Aquarium's Ken Peterson and Allen Protasio, who share an ocean's worth of knowledge and tips on where to go and what to "sea" at the Aquarium, on sustainability initiatives for a better future, and on nearby hiking and biking trails, including a few truly hidden gems for birdwatching and sea...

The mystery of the sailing stones of Death Valley, California's very own Blue Zone of health, and full moon dancing ... in this episode Brad and Holly talk about favorite places in California to have full moon adventures, from peak hikes and sand dunes, to guided hikes with wine. Then they're joined by Justin "Just Roc" Rimon, founder of Southern California-based Just Trek, a website and podcast about the great outdoors, including how spending time in nature can help improve both your physical and mental health. The podcast aims to inspire, motivate, and elevate people to a higher state of well-being...

With just 3 traffic lights in the entire county, wild open spaces, charming small towns, mountain lakes for swimming, paddling, boating (wait there's more!), shorelines featuring beaches and campgrounds, and a national park that's a still a secret gem, Plumas County in the far northern Sierra is poised for its close up. In this episode, Brad and Holly talk about their recent trip to the Plumas County, the lakes they visited, hikes and paddles and bike rides to do in the area, towns to stay in, places to eat, drink, shop, and spend the night... and visiting "California's Yellowstone"—Bumpass Hell an...

In this episode Brad and Holly catch up on summer travels and recommendations for California and Southern Oregon outdoor adventures, plus discuss Yosemite's controversial decision encouraging visitors to knock down cairns in the park. Also in the podcast: the climate crisis, and an interview with Weekend Sherpa contributing content creator Heather Werner, recently cast in Naked & Afraid for an episode filmed in Africa, and currently solo biking from Canada to Mexico.

Program Note: This podcast episode discusses wildfires in the US and Canada and was recorded before the devastation of the Maui wildfires, the deadliest in modern US...

Weekend Sherpa contributing writer Heather Werner joins Brad and Holly to share her recent experience climbing North America's highest mountain, Alaska's Denali. Hear just how challenging and intense the summit expedition was, and what it took to make it to the top. Plus hear about Brad and Holly's most memorable experiences from 2022.

In this special edition podcast, Brad and Holly talk with Carlo Facchino about his incredible solo rowing journey across the Pacific from San Francisco to the Big Island of Hawaii. Alone at sea for 72 days, Carlo encountered many challenges and obstacles in navigating the great wild open. He also found incredible peace and had extraordinary experiences, including in the pitch dark of night! You'll hear his stories and sentiments around the entire adventure: a most moving, inspirational, and candid account of what he went through and what he discovered about himself. Much of what he speaks about applies to our...

When the going gets tough, it's nice to get outside for some respite. But what happens when your passion for the great outdoors is upended unexpectedly? In this episode, Brad and Holly discuss their brief hiatus from regularly scheduled podcasts after Brad broke his hip in a mountain bike crash. Six weeks later, Weekend Sherpa's beloved unofficial mascot, Hank the English Bulldog, died suddenly. Needless to say, sometimes we all need to take some time. But it's not all doom and gloom—they also discuss some fun adventures to do outdoors in California to round out summer... with a few ex...

Sunny days are ahead! In this episode, Holly and Brad, along with Weekend Sherpa team adventurers, Ellen and Scott, talk about a very recent trip to Sun Valley, Idaho. This is a place where nature is nurture, and wellness is found in everything from alpine peak hikes to sublime car-free bike rides, botanical gardens, and free outdoor yoga at Bald Mountain. There's also stellar sunsets, starry nights, terrific dining, and the vibrancy of community events like Ketch'em Alive, where everyone gathers for live music and food and drink trucks galore. Sun Valley is how to do summer right!

...

In celebration of National Park Week, Weekend Sherpa co-founders Brad Day and Holly Kulak discuss eight great national park adventures they shared via this week's email newsletter in Los Angeles and San Francisco. Then they have a conversation with podcast guest Daniel Dietrich, the filmmaker behind "Tule Elk: The Killing of a Native Species." It's a discussion about a controversial decision to kill Tule Elk in Point Reyes National Seashore to make more room for cattle ranchers to let their cows graze more land. This is a highly charged topic, with politics and money shrouding the controversy. Find out ways...

A few years ago, legislation passed to allow the killing of native Tule Elk in Point Reyes National Seashore amid pressure from the ranching community, who want room for their cattle to graze and roam. Cows outnumber Tule Elk by a factor of 10 to 1 in Point Reyes. Brought back from the edge of extinction, today the Tule Elk are again threatened … in a national seashore where commercial private gain is winning out against what national parks are supposed to do: protect and preserve the natural environment. The controversy surrounding Bill HR6687, sponsored by Democratic member of Congress Jared Huffman, has in...

It's wildflower season already! This year brings early blooms that should just get better in the coming weeks. In this episode Brad and Holly discuss some local places across the Bay Area to hike and bike among some beautiful blooms, as well as great places to enjoy picnics and barbecues with views. They also discuss some peak hikes in the San Gabriel Mountains that are great to do in spring, with more daylight. Speaking of daylight, Brad gives his takes on the recent decision in the US Senate to make Daylight Savings Time permanent, and the controversial decisions around Tule...

Just when the Omicron crisis was starting to abate, the situation in Ukraine arose as another world event of devastation and heartache. How do you take a break from the doom-news? Sometimes it's helpful to be in nature. In this episode Brad and Holly talk about some less known local places in California that have everything from wildflowers to farm animals, including a place on the San Mateo Coast to try Goat Yoga. They also discuss where to start applying for camping and backpacking permits for summer adventures, including a beach next to the famous film location for parts of...

Make a date with the great outdoors and bring along whoever you love (or just like a lot). In this episode, Brad and Holly and Weeknd Sherpa contributing writer Ben Replogle discuss close-to-home and off-the-beaten-path adventures in California: from a hike in San Francisco with a new work of "heart" overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge, hikes with early wildflowers in Napa, bike rides with beaches and picnic stops, hiking to Joshua Tree's hidden old miner's cabin, and plenty more. Plus Brad and Holly discuss their recent trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, including tips on Volcanoes National Park, where...

Is this California's wildest national park? Maybe! What's a for sure? You should absolutely visit Channel Islands National Park off Ventura County Coast. Channel Islands has been dubbed the Galapagos of North America for good reason: The five islands comprising this national park have over 2,000 terrestrial plants and animals, of which 145 are found nowhere else in the world. You won't find ice cream shops here ... but you might spy the island fox. In this episode, Brad and Holly share details from their recent road trip to Ventura County Coast, including taking a boat out to Channel Islands National Park for...

Two years into a global pandemic and one thing remains true—the outdoors is a saving grace for physical and mental health. In this new year's episode, Brad and Holly discuss winter as the season of sunrises and sunsets, and the best outdoor settings in California to experience both. Also, where to find local waterfalls, and some of the best places to hike-in for a picnic with panoramic scenery. And, what's a spirit animal, anyway?! It's all new for 2022.

Waterfalls, wildlife, secret beaches, small towns, and epic sand dunes. The Oregon Coast and Highway of Waterfalls makes a magnificent getaway this winter. In this episode Brad and Holly share tips and itinerary ideas from their recent road trip along the Southern Oregon Coast and the Highway of Waterfalls, including "Secret Beach", the massive sand dunes that sparked the inspiration for the bestselling book (and hence the movie) Dune, and the incredible hike-in waterfalls along one of the most beautiful scenic byways in the West.

We may be biased, but getting outdoors is the best gift you'll give yourself this holiday. Brad and Holly talk about some areas around California that make excellent outdoor respites, with hiking, mountain biking, peak bagging and more. From desert escapes to summit hikes that are best in fall and winter, plus more easygoing walks the whole family can enjoy over the holidays together. We also catch up with Weekend Sherpa adventure writer Heather Werner on some South Bay adventures, including a 9-mile waterfall hike that comes to life after rains.

What's brewing? How about some hikes with spirits (actually, beer!), or adventures with just a bit of ghostly presence, but mostly just really good hikes and adventures to do in fall. This podcast edition is like a variety-bag of Halloween candy: lots of options! From NorCal best beaches to where to find the best waterfalls now that there's been some rain, plus redwoods, tarantulas, and a bonus pop-up nature event happening on Halloween, get your fill of fall fun. SoCal-based Weekend Sherpa writer Matt Pawlik also joins the podcast, providing the scoop on some secret hikes (with beer bonuses) in...

Ease into autumn with a conversation about one of the best ways to relax on the water in wine country... Brad and Holly discuss the "Amazon of Wine Country" one of the best kept secrets for river adventures. Also in the mix: mountain biking, the debate over adding 142 campsites to a state park, a special birthday, and red flag warnings. Later they are joined by Weekend Sherpa contributing writer, Breonna Carter, who shares some of her top recommendations for peak hikes in Southern California, where to camp on the beach last minute near Santa Barbara, and her very recent backpacking...

As a new season comes and life continues with Covid variants, wildfires, and big changes to our lives as the result of a global pandemic, we've got to remember to take care of ourselves mentally and physically, and thankfully the outdoors still offers a respite for rejuvenation and proven health benefits. Brad and Holly discuss everything from meditation to local outdoor adventures to clear your head, and their favorite fall hikes for relaxing.

Then they talk with Dr. Sean Amegadzie, a medical doctor in his second year residency specializing in psychiatry who is also an advocate of the...

With wildfires raging, a serious drought, and a sobering UN climate report, Brad and Holly discuss some of the impacts on California's great outdoors—state parks, national parks, thru hikes such as the Pacific Crest Trail, and more. They also talk about redwood hikes, car-free bike paths locally and beyond for do-it-yourself bike touring. Then Caitlin Cornwall, a biologist at the esteemed Sonoma Ecology Center and an expert in land use ecology, joins the conversation for an illuminating discussion about California's climate challenges, and ways to create a future where people, land, water, and wildlife can thrive.

Like chicken soup for the soul, there are some hikes that just deliver comfort in their familiarity and natural beauty—from iconic views, ocean scenery, wildlife sightings, and locations within national, state and regional parks. Brad and Holly talk about some "comfort food" day hikes and backpacking trails to do in California and a few points beyond (Wyoming), including a 3-beach day hike in the Marin Headlands that's panoramic buffet of coastal bliss. They also discuss the challenges and devastation of wildfires, as well as party fouls happening on the camping scene.

Something magical happens when you hike for a couple of miles in Yosemite... Brad and Holly catch up on summer backpacking adventures, including a gloriously quiet Yosemite High Sierra trek of lake hopping and peak bagging. Get all the details and tips on this two-to-three-night backpacking journey: where to camp, Volgensang Peak, lakes to visit, food to pack, and plenty more. Later in the podcast find out all about the upcoming SIFF Summerfest weekend in Sonoma (Aug 5-8): food, wine, outdoor films at wineries, live music, plus a spectacular lineup of independent films from across the globe, including The Cave...

A treasure hunt in San Francisco, backpacking in Yosemite, an easygoing bike ride in Point Reyes, a state park with a storied past, and a multi-day trek far off on Vancouver Island feature into this mid-summer podcast with Brad and Holly sharing trip ideas and more. SoCal's head writer, Matt Pawlik, also joins the podcast to share hikes to hidden lakes in Angeles National Forest, a secret side-trip to an historic dam, his recent backpacking adventure in Zion, camp spots, and plenty more. Get your fill of California outdoors and a few points beyond!

After a brief hiatus we're back! Brad and Holly have a special summer edition episode on a lake hopping High Sierra backpacking trip that doesn't require a reservation, Canada's backpacking system vs. the US, and then a special guest joints the podcast. Heather Werner lives in the Bay Area, owns an eco-friendly hair salon, and recently attempted to summit Mount Everest. She's a role model and inspiration for outdoor adventures, including her quest of summiting the highest peak on every continent—she's completed six so far! Heather talks about some of the peaks she's done, what's upcoming, and her very re...

Is there a city with easier access to the great outdoors than Reno? In just 15 minutes you can be on the mountain trails. Or you can stay in town and wander the beside the Truckee River on the Riverwalk. In this episode Brad and Holly are joined by author and Weekend Sherpa contributing writer Nicol Szanto, a Reno local. They talk about Weekend Sherpa's recent trip to Reno, including best hikes, art walks, the newest section of city to see Burning Man installations and vintage neon signs, as well as where to go throw an axe for fun, and top...

We're no doctors, but nature is good medicine. In this episode Brad & Holly talk about some of their favorite nature experiences in Sonoma County. We're talking about lavender labyrinths, sunset hikes, wildflowers, and yes, beer and wine! Plus, Hank the bulldog is turning 10 years old, which is a very big deal.

For National Park Week, Brad and Holly cover a list of top outdoor adventures in national parks across the West. Find out when to go, peaks to bag, where to camp, cool bars nearby, and a tip at the end on how to find one of the best hidden hikes in America's most famous canyon.

Walk, wine, wildflowers, repeat! Co-hosts Holly and Brad have lots to cover for a springtastic time ... starting with where to catch wildflowers in the Bay Area, including Napa, Mount Diablo, and Marin. They also chat about what's blooming in Point Reyes (along with the latest controversy about Tule Elk). Then LA contributor Matt joins to share his recent, food, wine, and hiking adventures in in Santa Ynez Valley.

Brad and Holly talk about their favorite National Parks in spring. Which car-free road is idyllic in spring for bike riding? Where you can find some solitude in Joshua Tree and the Airstream of dreams to spend the night? What hikes in Death Valley are good for wildflowers when there's no superbloom? What's a great day-hike or overnight in the Grand Canyon? Plus Holly's backpacking trip on the Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park in Hawaii, and Brad's adventure to the world's third largest cave in Vietnam.