Hikes in California
Hiking in California is an amazing experience. And not only because of Yosemite National Park––which is definitely a highlight! California is also home to numerous national and state parks, recreational areas and monuments that are filled with amazing hiking trails.
California is one of the most diverse states when it comes to nature. Here, you can find yourself hiking in the mountains one day and exploring the amazing pacific beaches the next. It is full of beautiful mountain peaks, lush green forests and beautiful beaches. Not to mention the Giant Sequoia Trees, volcanoes and an abundance of wildlife.
The state calls to the hearts of adventurers from around the world, promising incredible weather, natural beauty, rolling vineyards and on occasion, epic ski hills (that are perfect for hiking!). Interested? Then check out the best hikes in California!
15 Great Hikes in California
- Hidden Valley Loop: This is a classic Joshua Tree hike that takes in the stunning boulders native to the area.
- Warren Peak: One of the few elevated hikes in the area, considering most of Joshua Tree is flat, this makes for a fun, quick climb to the rocky summit of Warren Peak.
- Ryan Mountain: Set off on this popular hike to reach the summit for outstanding panoramic views over Joshua Tree National Park.
- Panorama Trail: This is not only one of the best hikes in California, but makes our shortlist for hikes across America. You simply can’t miss this one! Follow the Mist Trail to reach stunning Panorama Trail and eventually, panoramic Glacier Point!
- Yosemite Valley: Take in all the highlights of the iconic Yosemite National Park from this easy trail. While not overly challenging, hikers are rewarded with incredible mountain views from all angles.
- Clouds Rest Hike:: Those looking to get their heart pumping and legs burning will love this challenging hike. Crest the Cloud Mountain summit to observe all of Yosemite Valley from high above.
- Mount Dana: Tackle this unofficial path to get far away from the crowds, while still taking in unbelievable views! Most of this hike requires a steep ascent and will have your legs wobbling by the end.
- Mount Hoffman: While you’ll have to wait for the snow to melt each year to tackle this one, the legendary John Muir regarded this summit to be the most dramatic in the entire valley. We have to agree!
- Yosemite Falls: For an up close and personal view of the iconic Yosemite Falls, you’ll want to tackle this hike. Meander through the park, taking in the gorgeous mountain views, until you reach the magical falls.
- Tomales Point Trail, Marin County: This hike is unique, as it’s located within Tule Elk Preserve, nestled near the Pacific Ocean and as such, is often covered in fog. With beautiful seashore views from the top of Tomales Point, we wouldn’t recommend skipping this one.
- Kirby Cove: For unparalleled views of the surrounding Bay area, you won’t find any better than on Kirby Cove. Lookout over the amazing Golden Gate Bridge and snap a photo or two, then walk the rocky shore and indulge in a picnic lunch.
- The Mist Trail: On hot summer days, this hike is incredibly refreshing, as you pass two incredible waterfalls offering a breezy mist to cool hikers down and unbeatable views.
- Lembert Dome: One of the easier mountains to summit in the Yosemite area, Lembert Dome provides beautiful lookout points over Tuolumne Meadows and a delicious grill at the base for a post-hike snack.
- Lost Horse Loop Trail: Weave past a historic gold mine set against an incredible desert landscape on the Lost Horse Loop trail. With slightly challenging elevation gain, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views at the top.
- Split Rock Trail: This dreamy spot is incredible for photographers, with a dense collection of boulders, incredible local cacti and stunning cliffs––all which can be accessed on this quick hike.
When is the Best Time to Hike in California
California is an incredible state for year-round hiking, it’s one of the reasons we love it so much! Regardless of season, there is always a perfect trail to be found. Spring is perhaps our favourite for the stunning wildflowers that dot the trails that time of year, plus it also offers more moderate temperatures than scorching hot summer. May to June provides a nice cool breeze, less crowded hiking trails and incredible greenery as the world comes back to life after following the winter season.
Best Regions to Hike in California
There are so many fantastic regions for hiking in California, it’s hard for us to choose a favourite! Joshua Tree National Park has become Instagram famous in the past few years for its incredible desert landscapes, rusty-coloured mountains and wild cacti that are native to the land. It also has become known for its ever-popular boho scene from indy hotels to rustic airstream escapes. North Bay is one of the most-loved locations in the Bay area and it’s not hard to see why. You can immerse yourself in incredible coastal views, charming oceanside towns and some of the best hiking trails along the water's edge. And of course, Yosemite National Park, one of the most renowned National Parks in California, if not the world. With beautiful mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, pristine lakes and glistening glaciers, you can’t miss this iconic hiking region.
Other Activities in California
One of our favourite outdoor activities in California involves hitting the waves for a surf sesh. Offering some of the best beginner waves in the world, we like to visit the beach early in the morning to enjoy the sunrise. Another epic outdoor activity? Scrambling and boulder climbing! With unbelievable rock faces across the state, there is no shortage of adventurous spots to practice some freehand styling.
California's Adventure Tours
If you’re looking for a high-adrenaline tour, why not let 10Adventures help? With our wide-range of adventure tours in California, all you have to do is pack your bag—the rest is taken care of! From climbing a 3,048 m peak in Yosemite to backpacking across the peaks of Sierra Nevada––10Adventure tours have got it all.
How to Plan a Trip to California
Ready to explore the natural beauty of California? Read on to find our favourite spots for eating, sleeping, exploring and playing! We’ve rounded up complete guides to some of our favourite destinations in California, so all you have to do is pack a bag! From Yosemite, to North Bay, to Joshua Tree, we’ve got you covered.
Hiking regions in California
- Angeles National Forest (100)
- Death Valley (39)
- Inyo National Forest (73)
- Joshua Tree National Park (57)
- Lake Tahoe (70)
- Lassen (22)
- Los Angeles (70)
- Los Padres National Forest (57)
- North Bay (10)
- Palm Springs (24)
- Point Reyes National Seashore (35)
- Redwoods National and State Parks (44)
- San Bernardino National Forest (100)
- San Francisco (65)
- Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (92)
- Shasta-Trinity National Forest (69)
- Sierra National Forest (50)
- Stanislaus National Forest (52)
- Yosemite National Park (139)
Best Hikes in California
Sam the Eagle and Shoreline Loop
The Sam the Eagle and Shoreline Loop is a magnificent trail in the Napa Valley that offers several outdoor pursuits. The revered mountain biking route has recently become a favorite hiking trail—offering wonderful views of Hennessey Lake and the surrounding Vaca Mountains.
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Pine City
Though not a city, and containing only a handful of pines, the Pine City Trail is still a thoroughly enjoyably hike. The path is also not often travelled, allowing for some beautiful solitude as you cross the flat plane.
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Eureka Dunes Trail
Considered to be a moderately difficult route, the Eureka Dunes Trail is ideal for intermediate hikers and families with older children. Picturesque in their scale and beauty, the Eureka Sand Dunes will not leave you disappointed!
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Minaret Lake Trail
Taking you through stunning mountain topography, alongside charming creeks, and eventually ending at the picturesque Minaret Lake, the Minaret Lake Trail is an incredible route. A longer trail with a fair amount of elevation incline, the Minaret Lake Trail is ideal for more experienced hikers and those looking for a challenge in Inyo National Forest.
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Butte Lake to Snag Lake Loop
The Butte Lake to Snag Lake Loop is a stunning route within Lassen Volcanic National Park. A longer route with a fair amount of elevation fluctuation, the trail is best suited for experienced hikers looking for a challenge. Taking you alongside picturesque lakes and bringing you overtop of incredible geology such as the Lassen Cinder Cone, the Butte Lake to Snag Lake Loop is an excellent choice for your next hiking adventure.
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Champion Lodgepole Hike
The Champion Lodgepole Hike is a spectacular excursion in the San Bernardino Mountains of California that will see you traverse a steep trail to visit an ancient tree. While out hiking the trail, you will climb uphill past Castle Rock to take in the views, before continuing on to a 450 year old, 34 m tall Lodgepole Pine tree. If you only have time for one hike in the Big Bear Lake area, then this is a great option to take in the wonderful views.
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Barn Trail to Cal Neva Loop
The Barn Trail to Cal Neva Loop is an incredible adventure that weaves between the state line of California and Nevada, boasting jaw-dropping panoramas of Lake Tahoe and the bounding Sierra Nevada snow-capped mountains. Marvel in the beauty of the surrounding dramatic landscape as you get your rate up, hiking the Barn Trail to Cal Neva Loop.
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Faery Falls Trail
The Faery Falls Trail travels along a wide dirt route to a stunning cascade that plunges over a sheer cliffside framed with lush moss. Open year-round, hikers of all skill levels and ages can head out into the fresh air and indulge in this beautiful oasis.
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Heather Lake Trail
Indulge in breathtaking alpine scenery along the Heather Lake Trail. This lovely path exhibits jaw-dropping views of the bounding granite crests that frame Tokopah Valley in addition to the beautiful glacial lake. This route is awaiting your exploration.
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Klamath River Overlook Trail
Indulge yourself in mesmerizing views of Klamath and the rocky coastline along the Klamath River Overlook Hike. This short but steep adventure demands some stamina, but is doable for hikers of most skill levels, including children!
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Saddle Rock Trail
The Saddle Rock Trail is an epic day hike near Montecito that boasts breathtaking views of the city below, the coast, and the encompassing mountains. This route is ideal for intermediate hikers and families with older children, enjoy!
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Briones Regional Park Loop via Bear Creek Trailhead
The Briones Regional Park Loop via Bear Creek Trailhead would make an excellent addition to your Bay Area hiking list. This wonderful adventure travels through ranchlands, valleys, and rolling hills, exhibiting the diversity of the area’s flora and fauna whilst offering epic views.
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Warren Peak
This stunning, (yet lesser known) hike traverses the planes in the quiet northwestern section of Joshua Tree National Park, then climbs to the rocky summit of Warren Peak. Be warned – stunning panoramic views await!
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Father Crowley Vista
Appropriate for all skill levels and families with young children, Father Crowley Vista is a scenic lookout with picturesque views of the surrounding Death Valley National Park area. A great area for photography, Father Crowley Vista is well worth the effort.
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Lake Mary Loop
The Lake Mary Loop is a short route within Inyo National Forest that is ideal for families with young children and those seeking a casual hiking experience. Regarded as a great place to view wildlife, the Lake Mary Loop takes you around the shoreline of scenic Lake Mary.
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Juniper Lake Loop Trail
A perfect route for intermediate hikes and families with older children, Juniper Lake Loop Trail is a scenic pathway in the Lassen Volcanic Wilderness. Taking you past picturesque lakes and charming creeks, the Juniper Lake Loop Trail is an excellent choice for your next hiking adventure!
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Black Mountain Trail
The Black Mountain Trail is a beautifully scenic, but physically demanding, hiking route in the San Bernardino National Forest that will take you to the top of the mountain for breathtaking views. While out hiking the trail, you will work your way uphill through the forest along a rocky and unrelenting slope, before arriving at the summit for views of San Gorgonio Mountain and San Jacinto Peak. Hikers should take note that it is a steady and unrelenting climb up to the summit, so make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for the journey.
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Van Sickle Rim Trail Connector
Explore the Van Sickle Bi-State Park as you venture the Van Sickle Rim Trail Connector. This epic high-country adventure boasts breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains that bound the shimmering waters of Lake Tahoe below. Get a workout in as you hike this scenic trail along East Peak’s mountainside.
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Grizzly Lake Hike
Put your stamina to the test along the Grizzly Lake Hike. Explore the Trinity Alps Wilderness and indulge in the spectacular scenery, featuring waterfalls, picturesque alpine lakes, lush woodlands, and granite gardens. This epic adventure can be tackled as a strenuous day hike or overnight expedition.
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Sunset Rock Hike
The Sunset Rock Hike is an easy-going adventure in the Sequoia National Park that reveals spell-binding panoramas of the High Sierra and Kaweah Valley. Head out in the evening for an unforgettable experience—watching the sunset over the granite mountainscape.