If you're a hiking enthusiast, then California is the place to be. The Golden State offers an abundance of trails with stunning views, ranging from easy to strenuous. Whether you're looking for a quick day hike or a multi-day backpacking adventure, you're sure to find a trail that suits your needs.
1. Half Dome, Yosemite National Park
This iconic trail is one of the most challenging hikes in California, but the reward is well worth it. The Half Dome trail is a 14-16 mile round trip with an elevation gain of 4,800 feet. The final ascent to the summit involves using cables to climb the last 400 feet to the top. The views from the summit are breathtaking, and it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
2. The Mist Trail, Yosemite National Park
The Mist Trail is another popular trail in Yosemite National Park. The trail is 3 miles to the top of Vernal Fall and 7 miles to the top of Nevada Fall. The trail is steep and can be challenging, but the views of the waterfalls are incredible. Just be prepared to get wet from the mist of the falls.
3. Mount Whitney, Sequoia National Park
Mount Whitney is the highest peak in the contiguous United States, standing at 14,505 feet. The trail to the summit is a 22-mile round trip with an elevation gain of 6,100 feet. The trail is strenuous and requires a permit, but the views from the summit are unparalleled.
4. The Lost Coast Trail, King Range National Conservation Area
The Lost Coast Trail is a 25-mile backpacking trail along the rugged coastline of Northern California. The trail is challenging with steep climbs and descents, but the scenery is stunning. You'll see sea lions, whales, and other wildlife along the way, and you'll have the opportunity to camp on secluded beaches.
5. Mount Tamalpais State Park
Mount Tamalpais State Park offers a variety of hiking trails with stunning views of San Francisco Bay and the surrounding areas. The Dipsea Trail is a 7.5-mile loop that takes you through redwood forests and up to the summit of Mount Tamalpais. The trail is moderate and offers breathtaking views.
6. Big Sur
Big Sur is a rugged and beautiful stretch of coastline in Central California. There are numerous trails in the area, ranging from easy to strenuous. The Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park trail is a 5-mile round trip that takes you to the iconic McWay Falls. The views of the waterfall and the ocean are incredible.
7. Mount Baldy, San Gabriel Mountains
Mount Baldy, also known as Mount San Antonio, is the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains. The trail to the summit is a 10-mile round trip with an elevation gain of 3,900 feet. The trail is strenuous but offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
8. Point Reyes National Seashore
Point Reyes National Seashore offers a variety of hiking trails through diverse landscapes. The Tomales Point Trail is a 9.4-mile round trip that takes you through grasslands and along the coast. You'll have the opportunity to see Tule elk and enjoy views of the ocean and Tomales Bay.
9. Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve
The Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve is a 9,000-acre reserve in Riverside County. The reserve offers a variety of hiking trails through grasslands and oak woodlands. The Vernal Pool Trail is a 2.5-mile round trip that takes you to seasonal vernal pools, where you can see unique plant and animal species.
10. Mount Wilson, San Gabriel Mountains
Mount Wilson is another peak in the San Gabriel Mountains with stunning views of the surrounding area. The trail to the summit is a 14-mile round trip with an elevation gain of 4,200 feet. The trail is strenuous, but the views from the summit are incredible.
California offers some of the best hiking in the country with an abundance of trails and stunning views. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, there's a trail for you. Just make sure you're prepared with proper gear and plenty of water, and always practice Leave No Trace principles.