Zero crowds and warm weather make now the time to enjoy weekend destinations you avoided over the summer. Here are three ideas that won't burn a hole in your wallet.

Mountain biking in Downieville
Load up your bike rack and head out to the lakes region northwest of Tahoe for 15 miles of some of the best downhill mountain biking in NorCal. No need to stress over uphill pedaling in the heat, either: There's a shuttle.
Shuttles $20 here.

Hike in, camp out at Butano State Park
Finding a spot to pitch your tent on a beautiful weekend can be as tough as getting a table at Tartine on a Sunday morning. But with 18 walk-in campsites in this lesser-traveled park on the San Mato coast, you’re more likely to score a spot.
Recommended hiking route here. Directions here.

A day at the beach in Point Reyes
Take out-of-towners for a day trip with world-famous oysters, Cowgirl Creamery cheese, and camera-ready views. Go Sunday and school the kids about Miwok culture on the Kule Loklo Walk.
2-3p Bear Valley Visitors Center (415-464-5100) More info here.