Tucked between the its namesake creek and the hills of south Redlands, the 200-acre San Timoteo Nature Sanctuary offers open space and trails for humans and reliable water for local and migratory wildlife.

A short drive to east of Fremont brings you to the almost 7,000 acre Sunol Regional Wilderness, which offers amazing bird-watching opportunities, access to the Ohlone Wilderness Trail, amazing views of the Bay Area, and a fantastic backcountry experience less than an hour away from the sprawling East Bay metropolitan area.

What it lacks in acreage (and the creek for which it is named), Cave Creek Regional Park north of Phoenix more than makes up in recreational opportunities, from guided horseback rides to archery lessons, hiking to stargazing (telescope included)!

Weogufka State Forest in central Alabama is home to Flagg Mountain, the southernmost peak over 1000’ in the Blue Ridge Outliers of the Appalachian Mountains. It’s home to the southern terminus of the state’s longest trail, The Pinhoti, and a cabin complex and beautiful stone fire lookout tower built by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Year-round endless adventure abounds on the 550,000 acre Red Rock District of the Coconino National Forest, regardless the season or your ability level. From effortless scenic drives to strenuous backpacks, and everything between, it’s no surprise that this is the busiest and most popular District on the Coconino National Forest.

The only water-based park administered by Maricopa County is also its most popular – at Lake Pleasant Regional Park northwest of Phoenix, you can fish, water ski, even scuba dive in addition to hiking, camping, and stargazing in the park’s almost 25,000 acres!

Michelle ‘SuperClassy’ Markel plans to walk 56+ miles in three days to benefit Redlands Conservancy and Support Public Lands.

COMMENT by DECEMBER 30!

If you’re going to #OptOutside on Friday, why not go all in and commit to #BuyNothingDay