Many Ways to Explore the Bay Area

Many Ways to Explore the Bay Area

by Sarah Berry

This week we encourage everyone to explore the Bay in a new way. Whether you hit the trail on your bike, jump in a kayak, or paint a picture of nature outside your door – try something different and see what you discover.

Share a photo of your adventure on Instagram, tag us @saveSFbay, and use #BayDayTrailChallenge #SFBayDay, by Thursday, October 22 at 11:59 p.m. for the chance to win some great prizes. For our 21 and over Bay Day Trail Challengers, we have a fun swag bag from our friends at Sierra Nevada. We also have a $100 gift card from the wonderful people at REI so you can get the gear you need for your next outdoor adventure.

There are so many fun and free activities you can do while you explore the Bay, here are a few of our favorites.

Walking and Running

With over 500 miles of trail around the Bay, there are many trails for walking and running! Bring your dog and enjoy a walk along the Bay. Check out the Bay Trail Map to find your next adventure!

Cycling

All the trails along the San Francisco Bay Trail are multi-use, keep your eye out for pedestrians and other cyclists! Check out some popular cycling routes along the Bay Trail. Teach your kids how to ride a bike, enjoy a bike ride with friends and family, or enjoy some time to yourself along the beautiful Bay.

Kayaking

Did you know there is a Water Trail in the San Francisco Bay? This trail has no beginning or end and is instead a network of launching/landing sites. Grab your canoe, dragon boat, kayak, kiteboard, rowboat, or paddleboard! Learn more about the SF Bay Water Trail here.

Picnicking

Pack a lunch, grab some friends and family and adventure to one of these beautiful areas for a picnic along the Bay Trail! Be sure to pick up all of your trash-and even better, try to pack a zero waste lunch!

Birding

Grab your binoculars, cameras and local birding guide to quietly observe the diverse bird populations around the Bay! You can go birding anywhere along the Bay Trail, but here are some of the more popular spots.

Exploring Art

Along the Bay Trail, you may find some public art installations. See if you can find some of the art installations along the trail. Get inspired by these artists and your surroundings and draw or paint what you see!

Supporting Local Businesses

While you’re out exploring, you can also use the opportunity to support local businesses. This year, Bay Day is partnering with Sierra Nevada to highlight a few spots running Sierra Nevada specials you can visit after hitting the trails.