Hikes in California

The Devil’s Kitchen Trail is a stunning route within Lassen Volcanic National Park. Boasting a wide variety of scenery - from stunning alpine meadows to imposing alpine terrain - the Devil’s Kitchen trail has something for everyone to enjoy! A moderately difficult route, the Devil’s Kitchen Trail is ideal for intermediate hikers and families with older children.

The Hurkey Creek Trail is a great family-friendly hiking route in the San Bernardino National Forest that features some rugged terrain and scenic views. While out hiking the trail, you will climb slightly uphill through some rocky terrain, where you will have some stunning views of nearby mountain peaks. Hikers should take note that wildfires in recent years have destroyed much of the shade along the trail, leaving it very exposed to the sun.

History buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike will enjoy the Vikingsholm Trail. Wander through junipers, red firs, and pines down to the Vikingsholm Castle, a historic mansion from 1929 that sits along the shoreline of Emerald Bay. Short and scenic, this path is a must-add to your adventure itinerary.

Immerse yourself in the high country along the George Lake Trail. This epic excursion into the alpine terrain offers postcard-worthy views from both Potter Pass and Lake George. Though demanding, the wonderful panoramas prove well worth the sweat! What are you waiting for? Let’s go!

Leading you through diverse topographies, boasting incredible scenes, and a good workout, the Arnold Rim Trail is an incredible route within the Stanislaus National Park. This awesome day hike has lots to offer—from high rocky headlands, wildlife, and a mesmerizing waterfall. Enjoy!

The Bolinas Ridge Loop is a stunning adventure through diverse topographies in the Samuel P. Taylor State Park. Located near San Francisco, this route is an ideal escape from the city. Reconnect with nature and get a workout in as you venture this scenic trail.

The Hedge Creek Falls Trail boasts wonderful scenery and intriguing geological features. Flowing 11 m from Hedge Creek over the basaltic overhang into the rocky ravine, the cave behind the veil beckons exploration. Hikers of all skill levels and ages will enjoy this short but scenic adventure.

The Heather Lake and Lakes Trail is a beautiful adventure unrivaled in its alpine scenery. Beckoning the exploration of experienced hikers and intrepid spirits, this trail travels to not one, not two, but three crystalline lakes framed by the granite ridges of the Sierra Nevada.

Immerse yourself in a sea of towering old-growth redwoods along the Founder’s Grove Nature Trail. This easy-going route through an environment comparable to a fairy tale can be enjoyed by hikers of all skill levels and ages. When in the area, this trek is worth a detour!

The Enchanted Forest Trail is a local favorite that boasts a magical ambiance year-round. Explore the mixed-pine woodlands adorned with lush undergrowth, meandering alpine streams, wildflowers, and wildlife! This beautiful trail makes for a great day of hiking.

The Twin Peaks Trail is an iconic San Francisco adventure that visitors and locals alike must explore at least once in their lifetime. Ascend the vertiginous path to the overlooks which boast breathtaking vistas of the Bay Area, including Market Street, the Golden Gate, Alcatraz, Angel Island, and much more.

A walk in Shollenberger Park is great for people who want to get out in nature but don’t have the time to venture out to a coastal hike. This hike is abundant in bird species and natural waterways which all lead to the peaceful ambiance of the park.

The scenic High View Trail loop climbs a small hill in the northwest corner of the park. With beautiful views and typically few people, this hike is a treat for anyone willing to find it!

The hike to Cathedral Lakes in Yosemite National Park allows you to savor what may be the most perfect lake we have ever been to. Although this lake doesn’t have the stunning turquoise color of those in the Canadian Rockies, we think it’s one of the best lake hikes in Yosemite. The scenery is spectacular and this is a place well worth a day of exploration.

The Telescope Peak Trail is a longer route that possesses a fair amount of elevation fluctuation, and is therefore suitable only for more experienced hikers. For those willing to put in the work, the route brings you to the summit of Telescope Mountain where panoramic views of the surrounding region will take your breath away.

An absolutely stunning route, Twenty Lakes Basin and Saddlebag Lake Loop is a must-do route within Inyo National Forest. Traversing the imposing alpine terrain of the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountain range, the route is excellent for wildlife viewing and admiring the highland vegetation that is prolific throughout its extent.

Taking you through charming meadows and picturesque creeks before delivering you to two beautiful waterfalls, the Kings Creek Falls Trail is a lovely route within Lassen Volcanic National Park. Fairly short in distance and with a reasonable elevation incline, the route is perfect for casual hikers and families with young children.

The Heart Rock Trail is a laidback adventure in the San Bernardino National Forest that will take you through the woodlands to view an interesting geological feature. While out hiking the trail, you will meander along paved and rocky paths through the forest, before arriving at the weathered, heart-shaped formation known as Heart Rock. Although the trailhead is located beyond Camp Seely, make sure not to park there as it is private property. Instead, utilize the parking lot a bit further south along CA-138 and walk the remainder of the way.

Explore California’s alpine terrain along the Whiskey Creek Camp Trail. This stunning adventure boasts breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range as you wander up to the Five Lakes and the ruins of the Whiskey Creek Camp. This trek is a must-add to your hiking itinerary.

Immerse yourself in the High Sierra as you venture the Chain Lakes Trail. This awesome adventure, though taxing, boasts breathtaking scenery of snow-capped Sierra Nevada summits that bound the crystalline waters of the alpine lakes. If you are seeking a rewarding trek, then this hike is it!