From the Sierras to Wine Country & San Francisco

Play, eat, relax, repeat. It's a sweet vacation formula indeed. And we've found a way to insert a little extra "play" into the mix: just add snow! In beautiful northern California, we introduce you to our all-time favorite wintertime spots, from Sugar Bowl to Mount Tamalpais. You explore on cross-country skis, by bike and on foot. Add some yoga, drinks by the fire and Michelin-starred cuisine. You might think of it as Backroads' winter boot camp. Except nobody's yelling and crunches aren't required. All that's needed is a healthy spirit for adventure and well-toned sense of fun. Go forth and recreate! 

Days 1-2 The world-renowned winter playground of North Lake Tahoe  Journey to the undiscovered ski resort of Sugar Bowl  Strap on skis for a jaunt near our alpine chalet  No visit to this region would be complete without experiencing some of North America's best nordic ski terrain  Striders and skaters of all ski levels will be in heaven amid a vast network of impeccably groomed trails The afternoon may find you on downhill skis at Sugar Bowl Ski Resort, or relaxing by the fireplace back at the lodge.

Day 3 Even the cuisine has star power - Michelin stars, that is, at Santé Restaurant  What's your pleasure? A brisk cross-country ski before breakfast or sleeping in and a strong cup of coffee? You decide  Wine Country, here you come! Shuttle to Sonoma, whose Spanish-style plaza is perfect for a stroll Hike in historic Jack London State Park and drop by a winery for a tasting What goes better with skiing than spa-ing? We've got a soothing treat in store for you at Sonoma Mission Inn's spa.

Days 4-6 Soak up some of the most phenomenal views in northern California  The spectacular landscape of Mount Tamalpais sets the stage for today's hike  Shaded by redwoods, ascend the steps of the Dipsea Trail, where the country's oldest trail race takes place  Ready for two wheels? Incredible views await on the Paradise Loop, one the Bay Area's most popular cycling routes Indulge those hard-working muscles at our hotel's world-class spa  After a final hike in the Marin Headlands, we take the ferry from Sausalito to San Francisco - a trip Travel + Leisure named one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world  We end with lunch at the historic San Francisco Ferry Building and toast to a fantastic week.