PODCAST · society
Weekend Sherpa: Take It Outside
by Weekend Sherpa
Adventure for your earbuds. California outdoors and travel: Weekend Sherpa co-founders Brad Day and Holly Kulak discuss what's new in the world of travel in the West and where to get outdoors.
Episodes
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70. The Holiday Express! Top 10 Travel and Outdoors Stories of 2025
Joy to the wild! And to the simpler ways to get outside and into nature. In this episode, Brad and Holly talk about holiday plans, movies, books, and of course--where to go and what to do for getting a soulful dose of wonder and discovery around California, and points beyond. From national parks…
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69. Talking Turkey and Türkiye (+ Holiday Lights in California)
In this episode Brad and Holly talk about Weekend Sherpa's recent adventure hiking a section of Türkiye's relatively unknown world-class long-distance hiking trail, the Lycian Way. This marvelous and challenging trek overlooking the Turquoise Coast and passing ancient ruins, with beach stops and...
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68. A River Runs Through It
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…
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67. Spring Into Summer!
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...
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66. From Southeast Asia to Reno
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...
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65. An Unexpected New Year
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...
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64. Make 2025 the Year of...
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...
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63. Holiday Edition: The Moment Is Now
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…
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62. All the Right Movies (Outdoors Edition!)
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...
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61. Dune It Right!
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…
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60. Yodeling for Yosemite (& other destinations in the West!)
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...
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59. Holidays the California Way
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,...
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58. Getting Deep
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...
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57. Full Moon Fever + Peak Dancing
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...
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56. The Secluded Sierra
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...
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55. Yosemite Karens, Make that Cairns
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...
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54. Summit Dreams: Denali
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…
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53. Alone at Sea for 72 Days
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...
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52. Life Comes at You Fast!
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....
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51. Here Comes the Sun
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…
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50. Great National Parks & Trying to Save One from Politics
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...
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49. WTF Point Reyes?
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...
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48. Flower Power
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...
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47. Nature's Light
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...
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46. Dates Outside
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...
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45. Adventure Channel
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...
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44. Outdoors to the Rescue
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…
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43. Road Trip Ready!
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...
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42. Out Yule Go
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…
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41. I Ain't Scared
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...
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40. The Amazon of Wine Country
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...
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39. How the Outdoors Affects Health & Wellness
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...
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38. We're Apocalyoptimists
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...
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37. Chicken Soup for the Hiker's Soul
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...
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36. Yosemite's Magic Trick
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...
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35. Height of Summer Adventures
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...
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34. From the High Sierra to Mount Everest
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…
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33. Bright Lights & the Great Outdoors
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...
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32. Nature Therapy
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...
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31. National Park Nuggets
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.
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30. Poppies on Parade
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...
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29. Parks and Rec
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...
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28. Mindful Hikes
Urban forest bathing among eucalyptus... An epic waterfall hike wayyy back in regional wilderness... A lesser-known redwood grove for soaking in some ahhhs... In this episode, Brad and Holly talk about mindful hikes in both the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles, the wonders of stairway…
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27. Life and Death Experience
Badwater, Hell's Gate, Desolation Canyon ... do you dare go? For all its intimidating names evoking isolation, remoteness, and heat, Death Valley National Park is an intriguing destination as the largest national park in the Lower 48. In this episode, Brad and Holly talk about their recent...
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26. Well Isn't This Romantic (Plus Sedona & the Grand Canyon)
Cupid to the rescue? Not really. Weekend Sherpa’s co-founders, Brad and Holly, have some ideas on local outdoors adventures in California that are sweet and make good last minute Valentine’s plans. They also talk about their very recent southwest road trip to Sedona and Grand Canyon National…
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25. Wide Open 2021
Stay-at-home has been lifted and everyone wants their space. With the outdoors more popular than ever, places can get crowded quickly. Brad and Holly discuss some of the best Bay Area, NorCal, and SoCal spots for getting outdoors with more room to roam. From Tahoe snowshoeing to the dunes of…
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24. Happy New... Trails!
Amid a new year that is starting off as a continuation of challenges, from an attempted coup on democracy to the importance of getting outdoors, Brad and Holly discuss the realities of now. And of course they talk about some of the best new hiking trails and winter wanders to do locally in the…
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23. Top Adventures from The Year of the Dumpster Fire
Brad and Holly share their thoughts and lessons from 2020 and discuss the top outdoor adventures from Weekend Sherpa in this most rollercoaster of years, including how the list is developed, what their personal favorites are, the value of the outdoors in a pandemic, and more. Moving on to 2021!
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22. Oprah's Favorite Thing! (not our podcast)
Yosemite's backcountry ski hut, amazing sunset and mistletoe hikes, a Kobe Bryant mural walk... And, Oprah's favorite thing (a biscuit!) This holiday season episode is packed with fun stories and good ideas for making the most of the local outdoors. Brad and Holly talk about some of their…
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21. Covid Isn't Canceling the Outdoors (yet)
In a holiday season like no other, Covid's projected surge is here, so where do you go to find some holiday cheer? While a lot has been closed down again in California, the outdoors can still offer some yuletide joy. In this episode, Holly and Brad talk about some easy and scenic bike rides in…
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