California
California offers a diverse range of outdoor activities. The state boasts pristine coastlines, granite mountains, and expansive redwood forests. Travelers can explore the Alamere Falls, which empties directly into the Pacific Ocean, or visit McWay Falls in Big Sur, a prominent waterfall visible from Highway 1. For those interested in hiking, the Sunrise Lakes to Clouds Rest trail is a notable choice, while the Lands End Trail in San Francisco provides a scenic coastal walk. Whether you're looking to hike, camp, or simply enjoy the outdoors, California has something for everyone.
Top Spots in and near California
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Cambria, CaliforniaMoonstone Beach Trail
5.01.99 mi / 39 ft gainMoonstone Beach Trail is an out-and-back trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Cambria, California.Read more -
Solvang, California
Ostrichland USA
5.0Enjoy meeting ostriches and emus alike! Located just outside of Solvang, near Santa Barbara, you get the chance to stroll through a farm and feed the ostriches and emus. Entrance is free, but there is a fee to feed them. There are scenic hills and flowers all around the farm. This is a great ...Read more -
Lytle Creek, California
Old CC Spur Trail via Big Tree Cucamonga Rd
5.11 mi / 1138 ft gainOld CC Spur Trail via Big Tree Cucamonga Rd is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Fontana, California.Read more -
Inyokern, California
Five Fingers Trail
4.02.34 mi / 1234 ft gainFive Fingers Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you past scenic surroundings located near Onyx, California.Read more -
Bodega Bay, California
Portuguese Beach
4.0Portuguese Beach in Bodega Bay is a scenic gem along the Northern California coastline, offering visitors a tranquil retreat amidst stunning natural beauty. Nestled between rugged cliffs, this beach is known for its expansive views of the Pacific Ocean and its serene atmosphere. It's a popular sp...Read more -
Big Bear, California
Alpine Pedal Path
5.05.08 mi / 292 ft gainAlpine Pedal Path is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a lake located near Big Bear Lake, California.Read more -
Encinitas, California
Encinitas Coastal Rail Trail
2.61 mi / 33 ft gainThe Cardiff/Encinitas Coastal Rail Trail (part of the longer, ongoing project to eventually run 44 miles between Oceanside and San Diego) is a beautiful, mellow, and well-maintained pathway that runs from the corner of Chesterfield Dr. & San Elijo Ave. (right across the street from the Patago...Read more -
Davenport, California
Kitesurf Waddell Beach
4.0Just north of Santa Cruz at the far west end of Big Basin State Park, Waddell Beach offers one of California's top spots for kiteboarding. Each spring and summer, you'll find consistent northwesterly afternoon sea breezes. With the added bonus of consistent waves from wind and ground swell, Wad...Read more -
Mountain Center, California
Cactus Spring Trail
31.73 mi / 6407 ft gainCactus Spring Trail is an out-and-back trail where you may see wildflowers located near Mountain Center, California.Read more -
Lancaster, California
Little Butte Trail
4.02.09 mi / 213 ft gainLittle Butte Trail is an out-and-back trail that is moderately difficult located near Llano, California.Read more -
Hesperia, California
Cleghorn Beach and Day Use Area
Nestled at the southwestern edge of Silverwood Lake lies Cleghorn Beach and Day Use Area, a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon. This family-friendly beach boasts lifeguards on duty during the summer months and offers reservable picnic shelters for your convenience. Unlike other parts of the l...Read more -
Altadena, California
Gabrieleno Trail: Switzer Falls to Hahamonga Watershed
5.010.14 mi / 814 ft gainGabrieleno Trail: Switzer Falls to Hahamonga Watershed is a point-to-point trail that takes you by a waterfall located near La Canada Flintridge, California.Read more -
Glendora, CaliforniaPoop Out Trail
5.04.84 mi / 1624 ft gainPoop Out Trail is a loop trail where you may see wildflowers located near Glendora, California.Read more -
Santa Rosa, California
Hood Mountain Summit Via Lower and Upper Johnson Ridge Trails
5.95 mi / 2054 ft gainHood Mountain Summit via the Lower Johnson and Upper Johnson Ridge Trails is a 6 mile out-and-back trek located in Santa Rosa, CA. The trailhead starts at the Pythian Road parking lot, accessed from Highway 12. The hike takes 3.5 to 4 hours to complete and is considered strenuous. All trails are...Read more -
Mount Shasta, California
Porcupine Lake and Toad Lake
4.03.47 mi / 738 ft gainPorcupine Lake and Toad Lake is an out-and-back trail that takes you through a nice forest located near Mount Shasta, California.Read more -
Sonoma, California
Grape Stomp and You-Walk Miwok Loop
5.02.17 mi / 463 ft gainExplore the beauty of Sonoma, California, on the Grape Stomp and You-Walk Miwok Loop, a breathtaking hiking trail offering a mix of rolling vineyards, oak woodlands, and stunning valley views. This moderate loop is perfect for nature lovers, trail runners, and photographers seeking an immersive o...Read more
