Book excerpt: Weighing in at more than a pound and completely revised and updated, the ninth edition of this guide covers the whole range of weekend trip options in the Bay Area, from urban treks through San Francisco and Sacramento to kayaking in the Russian River and backpacking in Lassen Volcanic Park. Each destination includes information on what to do, where to stay, and where to eat. Helpful extras include the most direct driving route and stops along the way. A chapter is devoted to ski areas, with advice on the difficulty of slopes. An additional chapter covers family camps, houseboats, river and pack trips, and other adventures. Clear, current maps; a detailed index; and an appendix itemizing annual events by month and location are part of what makes this the most useful guide of its kind on the market.