Mount Hamilton, California
Mount Hamilton in California offers some of the best trails and outdoor activities for those seeking scenic outdoor adventures. One must-visit is the Grant Ranch County Park, a sprawling area with a network of trails that takes you through rolling hills and pastures. The park is known for its unique rock formations and a peaceful lake, making it a top spot for hiking, picnicking, and fishing. The Mount Hamilton Observatory is another top attraction, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. For a challenging hike, tackle the Copernicus Peak Trail, the highest point in the park. This trail offers panoramic views and a glimpse of the region's diverse flora and fauna. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, Mount Hamilton offers an array of outdoor activities to suit all preferences.
Top Spots in and near Mount Hamilton
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Half Moon Bay, California
Goat Yoga at Lemos Farm
5.0This is a great way to destress and have fun! Goat yoga is like normal yoga, but with goats. Goats tend to like higher ground and flat surfaces. So, when you are in table top position, they are highly likely to jump onto your back! These goats are still young, and so do not weigh as much as f...Read more -
Clayton, California
Mount Diablo Summit Loop
4.413.12 mi / 3579 ft gainMt. Diablo has some of the most expansive views in California, despite it's relatively low peak elevation. It played a large role in the surveying the Bay Area during its early discovery. Getting There: To get to the staging area, take Interstate 80 to I-680 to Highway 4. Exit at Railroad Bou...Read more -
Oakland, California
Dunn Loop
5.03.08 mi / 758 ft gainThe Redwood Regional Dunn Loop is just outside of Oakland, and can be reached from anywhere in the Bay Area for a fun day or half-day trip. The trail is open year-round. In the spring, wildflowers are abundant. The trail has a great mix of sun and shade. Dogs are allowed, but must be kept on leash.Read more -
Cowell Ranch Beach Access, California
Cowell Ranch Beach
5.01.14 mi / 39 ft gainHike half a mile to this beautiful, secluded beach. There are high cliffs with a steep staircase down to the beach. The beach has wonderful rock formations on one side. It is a great place to watch the sunset or bring a picnic. A great place for a beach day if you are looking for something le...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, California
Cowell-Purisima Coastal Trail
4.56.8 mi / 528 ft gainThis trail begins at the Cowell State Beach parking lot and is only open on the weekends. From the lot, take the short Cowell Ranch Access trail to a scenic overlook. There are steps down to the secluded pocket beach just above the main trail. The trail playfully meanders along the cliffside with...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, California
Hike the Cowell-Purisma Trail
5.07 mi / 400 ft gainThis is a popular trail that has beach access to Cowell Ranch Beach. Along the trail, there is a steep staircase that goes down to the beach. The trail also features fields, a bridge, and beautiful views of California's rugged coastline. This trail is paved in some parts, and can also be biked...Read more -
Burlingame, California
Mills Canyon Nature Area Trail Loop
4.01.45 mi / 331 ft gainNestled within Burlingame, California, the Mills Canyon Nature Area Trail Loop offers hikers a serene escape into nature. This approximately 1.5-mile loop meanders through diverse landscapes, including mixed woodlands and grasslands, providing opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying native ...Read more -
Antioch, California
Hike the Old Homestead Loop
5.06.5 miThis is a fun day hike that takes you through the beautiful hills of the Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve and a bit of the Contra Loma Recreational Area as well. You can hike here year round, but I suggest going in the spring time when the hills are covered in soft, green grass and the wild ...Read more -
Burlingame, California
Ed Taylor Loop Trail
4.01.42 mi / 295 ft gainThis hike can be done at any time of year. Hiking in winter and spring means that many varieties of wildflowers will be present, and the creek will have much more water. Summer and fall mean higher temperatures and drier conditions, but the hike is still a pleasant experience. Begin the hike at ...Read more -
Walnut Creek, California
Southern Lime Ridge Loop
4.05.57 mi / 1089 ft gainThe Southern Lime Ridge Loop is a trail system located near Walnut Creek, CA. There is a parking lot at the trailhead located across the street from the Boundary Oak Golf Course. The trail is fairly exposed with limited shade, so bring appropriate sun protection especially on the warmer days. D...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, California
Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail
4.65.51 mi / 220 ft gainStart at the visitor center along Kelly Avenue. Take note that the day parking fee is $10 in 2024 for each vehicle. You will then be able to enjoy both the Coastside Trail and Francis Beach (plus other beaches) with access to the amenities such as coin-operated showers and a semi-private beach. ...Read more -
Half Moon Bay, CaliforniaCamp at Francis Beach Campground
4.0If you love to log as much water time as possible, this little gem is the campsite for you. Half Moon Bay State Beach is actually four smaller beaches, with a total of two miles of sandy shore, but you'll be camping right at Kelly Ave., one of Half Moon Bay's most consistent surf spots. Keep in m...Read more -
Oakland, California
East & West Ridge Loop
4.53.47 mi / 833 ft gainTucked away in the hills of Oakland, you will find one of the homes of California's Coastal Redwoods. Created by a unique geographical circumstance, this forest breathes winds funneled through the Golden Gate across the bay, which created environment opportune for Redwood growth. These Redwoods a...Read more -
Marina, California
Marina State Beach
3.5From the moment you turn into the parking lot, you know Marina State Beach is special. Grab a parking spot in the large lot and then run down the dunes and onto the shoreline! The beach feels spacious on this section of the shore and gives plenty of room to run around or to put down a blanket to ...Read more -
Millbrae, CaliforniaSawyer Camp Trail: San Andreas Lake to Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir
4.05.35 mi / 354 ft gainSawyer Camp Trail: San Andreas Lake to Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir is an out-and-back trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Millbrae, California.Read more -
Lafayette, California
Lafayette Reservoir via Nature Area Rim Trail
4.95 mi / 758 ft gainLafayette Reservoir is perfect for canoeing, mountain biking, trail running, and hiking. The Reservoir trail system is also used for nature walks and birding. The loop has several high points that have amazing views. The trails become very muddy after wet weather - so tread with caution. Th...Read more
