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Best Memorial Day Getaways Near Sacramento

From the mountains to the sea is always a possibility for the greater Sacramento area. The area surrounding Sacramento is ripe with Memorial Day three day get-a-aways. What would you like to do, what's calling you to come and visit? Choices, choices, choices, all of them good. Take a look, then take off.
Sorensen's Resort
14255 State Route 88
Hope Valley, CA 96120
(530) 694-2203
www.sorensensresort.com

Sorensen's has been taking care of outdoor enthusiasts for a long time now. The cabins are extremely comfortable, the food in the lodge is delicious, and the Brissendens, who own the place, are fantastic hosts. What do you want to do around here over Memorial Day? Take your choice. Hike the many trails in Hope Valley or in the Carson Pass area; break out your fly fishing gear and head to the west fork of the Carson River across the street, or find out about nearby Markleeville and Monitor Pass; bring your art gear and relax in this beautiful area. It's a completely stunning adventure.

Marin Headlands Hostel
Fort Barry
Building 941
Sausalito, CA 94965
(415) 331-2777
www.norcalhostels.com

Hostels are a natural for anyone on a budget. If that's you, and Memorial Day is a favorite getaway time for you, consider the Marin Headlands Hostel. For starters, it's in the Marin Headlands, just north of San Francisco. The hostel is housed in buildings that were built in 1907 at Fort Barry. It's all part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The hostel features guest lounges, fully equipped kitchens and on-site laundry. Parking is free. The trails and views from here are truly incredible. You will need your camera. Hike or bike until you drop, or just kick back and enjoy this wonderful and historic area.

Boonville Hotel
14050 CA-128
Boonville, CA 95415
(707) 895-2210
www.boonvillehotel.com

Take a three hour drive up highway 101, turn at Cloverdale and stop when you get to Boonville. You will find the hotel a fine and comfortable place to rest your head for a couple of days. The hustle and bustle of the city is far away from here. Boonville is a friendly and welcoming spot, nestled in a forest of Redwoods. The town itself is worth exploring. Hike in the magnificent redwoods, take a dip in the Navarro River, and then head out for wine tasting in the nearby wineries. If you fly your own plane, there is an airport there that you might want to take advantage of. There are plenty of interesting places to grab a meal, from the funky to the white table cloth group. This is an interesting place to explore. You'll be back, so take your time.

Related: Best Patriotic Ways To Celebrate Memorial Day

The Village At Squaw Valley
1960 Squaw Valley Rd.
Olympic Valley, CA 96146
(530) 584-1000
www.thevillageatsquaw.com

Squaw Valley continues to be an amazing place to spend some time. The Village at Squaw Valley is part of the amazing description. Rooms here are very comfortable and are simply a part of The Village. What you chose to do with your time takes a bit of planning. Lake Tahoe is just down the road. Kayaking, swimming, stand up paddle boarding are on the menu. The shops in The Village and at Tahoe City will keep you busy. If you want to hike, Shirley Canyon is just a short stroll away. Take the tram to High Camp and swim in the pool, or explore this high country terrain. If there's snow, strap on your skis.There are many fine places to chow down. Ride your bike to Tahoe City, or simply walk around the Village, or take a walk along the Truckee River trail. Wonderful doesn't come close to describing the area.

Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe
13031 Ritz-Carlton Highlands Ct.
Truckee, CA 96161
(530) 562-3000
www.ritzcarlton.com

Memorial Day and the get-a-way is looming. If you want to just be taken care of, The Ritz at Lake Tahoe will be where you are headed. Luxurious is defined here. If what you need is relaxation you'll find it easy to accomplish. Fantastic views, concierge service, fine food and wine are all part of it. Take advantage of the area, perhaps get out and about, either in nearby Truckee, or drop down to Reno. Swim in the heated pool, work out in the world class exercise facility, then enjoy an in-room massage. Grab a pizza in the village, or enjoy world class cuisine in one of five dining areas. Read, relax, explore, enjoy. Ahh, life is good.

Related: Best Luxury Hotels In Sacramento

Charles Ferris is a freelance writer who has lived in the Sierra, halfway between Sacramento and Lake Tahoe, for the last 41 years. In 2010 he retired from teaching after 36 years . He and his wife hike, kayak, cross country ski, snow shoe, ride mountain bikes and road bikes, year round. His work can be found at Examiner.com.
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