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
-
Glen Ellen, California
Corridor Ridge Loop Trail
4.02.48 mi / 289 ft gainCorridor Ridge Loop Trail is a loop trail where you may see wildflowers located near Glen Ellen, California.Read more -
Long Beach, California
Red Car Greenbelt
5.00.63 mi / 0 ft gainThe Greenbelt used to be the right-of-way for the long lost Pacific Electric Red Car, an amazing system of public transportation that connected Long Beach, LA, Orange Coutny, and even San Bernardino. The pathways are landscaped with plants typical of the area and plenty of native flowers for the...Read more -
Forestville, California
Sunset Beach River Park
4.0Sunset Beach River Park is located off River Road in Forestville, California. The beach offers up picturesque views of the Russian River and is a great spot to end your float if starting at Steelhead Beach. The Beach: The beach is about a quarter of a mile walk from the parking area. Keep this ...Read more -
Julian, California
Ghost Mountain Trail to Yaquitepec
5.01.29 mi / 443 ft gainGhost Mountain Trail to Yaquitepec is an out-and-back trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Julian, California.Read more -
Sebastopol, California
Ives Park
4.0Ives Park is the oldest park in Sebastopol, California, and is located only 2 blocks from downtown Sebastopol. The park has many picnic tables with barbecues, a baseball diamond, a playground, and a community pool. Amenities: Parking for the park is on the street surrounding the park. There is ...Read more -
Palm Springs, California
Indian Potrero Loop Trail
8.67 mi / 1247 ft gainIndian Potrero Loop Trail is a strenuous loop trail located near Palm Springs, California.Read more -
San Francisco, California
Bayview Hill Loop
4.01.24 mi / 184 ft gainBayview Hill Loop is a loop trail that starts with a paved uphill climb and views of the bay facing toward the East Bay located in the Bayview neighborhood of San Francisco, California.Read more -
Julian, California
Volcan Mountain Trail
4.82 mi / 1270 ft gainVolcan Mountain Trail located near Julian, California is a moderate day hike. This well-maintained trail offers beautiful views, but keep in mind there isn't too much sun protection, so be sure to pack plenty of water and coverage on sunnier days. Dogs are permitted on the trail on a leash.Read more -
Sebastopol, California
Thistle - Creek Loop
5.01.45 mi / 69 ft gainThe Thistle - Creek Loop is a loop trail at Ragle Ranch. This trail is used for hiking and running and offers some cover/shade as well as great views of foliage especially in the fall months. This trail is located near Sebastopol, California.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 -
Cayucos, California
Cayucos Pier Trail
5.00.35 mi / 30 ft gainCayucos Pier Trail is an out-and-back trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Cayucos, California.Read more -
Palm Springs, California
Coffman Trail from Andreas Canyon Rd
3.56 mi / 525 ft gainCoffman Trail, located in Palm Springs, California, is a popular hiking destination. The trail is approximately 3.56 miles long and is rated as moderate in difficulty. It begins at Andreas Canyon Road and winds its way up the mountainside, offering panoramic views of the surrounding desert landsc...Read more -
Mammoth Lakes, California
Lake George Trail
5.01.34 mi / 89 ft gainThe Lake George Loop is perfect for exploring the shoreline and fishing near the top of the Mammoth Lakes wilderness. The lake can get quite cold due to the elevation and surrounding mountains not allowing the sun to hit it for an extended time, but if you go during mid-day you should have a refr...Read more -
Bridgeport, California
Matterhorn Peak
5.012.1 mi / 5036 ft gainMatterhorn Peak is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a lake located near Bridgeport, California.Read more -
Santa Barbara, California
Red Rock Pools
0.89 mi / 10 ft gainRed Rock Pools is a relatively popular swimming hole located along the Santa Ynez River about an hour outside of Santa Barbara, California. The trail to the swimming hole is relatively short, but more pools can be found if you follow the Gibraltar Trail down to the Gibraltar Dam (an additional ...Read more -
Julian, California
Blair Valley Trail
11.4 mi / 873 ft gainBlair Valley Trail is a loop trail where you may see wildflowers located near Julian, California.Read more