California trails

Distance: 1.5 mi • Elevation gain: 1,401 ft • Maximum elevation: 5,184 ft

Hike to Switzer Falls via Gabrielino Trail and Bear Canyon Trail in Angeles National Forest #Hiking #Waterfall #Forest #River #Mountain

Distance: 3.9 mi • Elevation gain: 797 ft • Maximum elevation: 3,301 ft

The hike to Switzer Falls via the Gabrielino and Bear Canyon Trails in Angeles National Forest offers a rich tapestry of natural and historical features. Hikers traverse shaded paths alongside the Arroyo Seco stream, pass by historic ruins of the Switzer Trail Camp, and encounter the picturesque Switzer Falls,…

Distance: 3.8 mi • Elevation gain: 797 ft • Maximum elevation: 3,304 ft

Hike to Mission Peak via Hidden Valley Trail in Mission Peak Regional Preserve #Hiking #Mountain #Overlook

Distance: 6.2 mi • Elevation gain: 2,100 ft • Maximum elevation: 2,474 ft

Hiking the Hidden Valley Trail to Mission Peak offers expansive vistas of the San Francisco Bay Area, including landmarks like Mount Tamalpais and Mount Diablo in the distance. Along the trail, hikers traverse open grasslands and may encounter local wildlife such as grazing cattle and soaring birds of prey. At…

Distance: 6.2 mi • Elevation gain: 2,136 ft • Maximum elevation: 2,493 ft

Hike via Innsdale Trail and Mount Lee Drive in Griffith Park #Hiking #Mountain #City

Distance: 4.5 mi • Elevation gain: 1,047 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,640 ft

The hike to the Hollywood Sign via Innsdale Trail and Mount Lee Drive offers an up-close experience with this iconic landmark, providing panoramic views of Los Angeles, the expansive Lake Hollywood Reservoir and the surrounding hills and valleys. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the natural beauty of Griffith…

Distance: 4.4 mi • Elevation gain: 978 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,631 ft

Hike from Red Box Picnic Area via Lawlor Saddle in Angeles National Forest #Hiking #Mountain

Distance: 7.3 mi • Elevation gain: 2,904 ft • Maximum elevation: 6,115 ft

The Strawberry Peak Trail in Angeles National Forest offers hikers a challenging yet rewarding journey through diverse terrains. Starting from the Red Box Picnic Area, the path meanders through shaded canyons, ascends exposed ridges and rocky outcrops, culminating at the peak's distinctive, strawberry-shaped…

Distance: 7.2 mi • Elevation gain: 3,045 ft • Maximum elevation: 6,112 ft

Loop hike to Skull Rock and Temescal Falls via Temescal Ridge Trail and Temescal Canyon Trail in Topanga State Park #Hiking #Mountain #Forest #Loop #Rock #Waterfall #Ocean

Distance: 4.1 mi • Elevation gain: 1,112 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,401 ft

The Skull Rock and Temescal Falls Loop in Topanga State Park offers hikers a diverse experience, featuring lush shaded trails, exposed steep climbs, and gorgeous ocean views. Along the route, you'll encounter the intriguing Skull Rock formation, which resembles a skull, and a small cascade known as Temescal…

Distance: 4.2 mi • Elevation gain: 1,099 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,401 ft

Hike to Potato Chip Rock via Mount Woodson Road #Hiking #Mountain #Rock

Distance: 4.1 mi • Elevation gain: 1,293 ft • Maximum elevation: 2,844 ft

The hike to Potato Chip Rock via Mount Woodson Road offers expansive views of San Diego County and glimpses of the Pacific Ocean on clear days. Along the trail, hikers encounter unique geological formations, notably the famous Potato Chip Rock—a thin, jutting rock resembling a potato chip—which has become…

Distance: 4.2 mi • Elevation gain: 1,312 ft • Maximum elevation: 2,844 ft

The combined Lower Yosemite Fall and Cook's Meadow Trails Loop in Yosemite National Park offer hikers breathtaking views of iconic landmarks. Along this easy, flat path, you'll encounter stunning vistas of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, Sentinel Rock, and Glacier Point, all set against the serene backdrop of lush…

Distance: 2.0 mi • Elevation gain: 240 ft • Maximum elevation: 4,104 ft

The El Moro Canyon Loop Trail in Crystal Cove State Park offers a rewarding journey through diverse terrains, including canyons, rolling hills and ridgelines. Along the path, hikers will encounter expansive vistas of the Pacific Ocean, with views extending to Newport Beach to the north and Laguna Beach to the…

Distance: 5.0 mi • Elevation gain: 814 ft • Maximum elevation: 728 ft

Loop hike via Moro Canyon Trail and Moro Ridge Spur in Crystal Cove State Park #Hiking #Loop #Canyon #Ocean

Distance: 4.8 mi • Elevation gain: 797 ft • Maximum elevation: 732 ft

Loop hike via Lower Yosemite Fall Trail and Cook's Meadow Trail in Yosemite National Park #Hiking #Loop #Mountain #Yosemite

Distance: 2.0 mi • Elevation gain: 246 ft • Maximum elevation: 4,108 ft

Hike to Cucamonga Peak via Icehouse Canyon Trail in Cucamonga Wilderness #Hiking #Mountain

Distance: 11.5 mi • Elevation gain: 4,383 ft • Maximum elevation: 8,825 ft

The Cucamonga Peak Trail via Icehouse Canyon offers hikers a rewarding journey through diverse landscapes, culminating in panoramic vistas from the summit. The trail begins in a lush, shaded canyon, following the serene Icehouse Creek and passing remnants of historic stone cabins. As you ascend, the terrain…

Distance: 11.7 mi • Elevation gain: 4,370 ft • Maximum elevation: 8,839 ft

Loop hike in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve #Hiking #Loop #Beach #Ocean #Overlook

Distance: 3.5 mi • Elevation gain: 538 ft • Maximum elevation: 338 ft

Embarking on the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve Loop via the Guy Fleming Trail, EB Scripps Overlook, Razor Point, Yucca Point and Beach trails offers hikers a diverse experience of Southern California's coastal beauty. Along the way, you'll encounter rare Torrey pine trees, dramatic sandstone cliffs, and…

Distance: 4.1 mi • Elevation gain: 801 ft • Maximum elevation: 335 ft

The Hidden Valley Loop Trail in Joshua Tree National Park offers a captivating journey through a landscape adorned with massive, weathered boulders and unique rock formations. As you traverse the loop, you'll encounter a diverse array of desert flora, including Joshua trees, pinyon pines, cacti and various…

Distance: 1.0 mi • Elevation gain: 128 ft • Maximum elevation: 4,272 ft

The Barker Dam Loop Trail in Joshua Tree National Park offers a captivating journey through diverse desert landscapes, including striking rock formations and iconic Joshua trees. Along the trail, visitors can explore the historic Barker Dam, constructed by early cattlemen in 1900 and later enhanced by rancher…

Distance: 1.3 mi • Elevation gain: 98 ft • Maximum elevation: 4,311 ft

Loop hike in Joshua Tree National Park #Hiking #Desert #Rock #Loop

Distance: 1.0 mi • Elevation gain: 128 ft • Maximum elevation: 4,272 ft

Distance: 2.1 mi • Elevation gain: 23 ft • Maximum elevation: 20 ft

Distance: 2.1 mi • Elevation gain: 522 ft • Maximum elevation: 5,607 ft

Distance: 3.6 mi • Elevation gain: 689 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,342 ft

Distance: 3.2 mi • Elevation gain: 909 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,962 ft

Distance: 5.2 mi • Elevation gain: 1,696 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,821 ft

Distance: 4.6 mi • Elevation gain: 1,398 ft • Maximum elevation: 2,320 ft

Distance: 1.1 mi • Elevation gain: 98 ft • Maximum elevation: 253 ft

The Upper Yosemite Falls Trail to Yosemite Point is a strenuous hike that offers hikers panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, including iconic landmarks such as Half Dome and the Cathedral Spires. Along the ascent, the trail provides close-up perspectives of the majestic Upper Yosemite Falls—one of the tallest…

Distance: 8.6 mi • Elevation gain: 5,823 ft • Maximum elevation: 7,014 ft

The Canopy, Lost, and Fern Creek Trails Loop in Muir Woods National Monument offers hikers a serene journey through towering redwoods, lush fern-lined paths, and tranquil creek crossings. The trail ascends gently, providing elevated views of the forest canopy, and descends alongside the picturesque Fern Creek,…

Distance: 3.0 mi • Elevation gain: 860 ft • Maximum elevation: 735 ft

The Old Mine, Dipsea, and Steep Ravine Trails Loop in Mount Tamalpais State Park offers hikers a diverse experience, featuring towering redwood forests, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Along the route, one can traverse lush fern-lined paths, navigate wooden ladders beside Webb…

Distance: 3.9 mi • Elevation gain: 1,017 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,506 ft

The Griffith Observatory Loop via the East and West Observatory Trails in Griffith Park offers hikers a rewarding experience with panoramic views of Los Angeles. Along the route, one can observe the iconic Griffith Observatory, the Hollywood Sign, and the expansive Los Angeles skyline. The trails also provide…

Distance: 2.3 mi • Elevation gain: 682 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,132 ft

The Moses Spring Trail, Rim Trail, and High Peaks Trail Loop in Pinnacles National Park offers hikers a diverse experience featuring talus caves, the Bear Gulch Reservoir, and panoramic vistas of the park's volcanic rock formations. Along the route, visitors can explore the Bear Gulch Cave, enjoy the view on…

Distance: 1.8 mi • Elevation gain: 522 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,719 ft

The Glendale Peak and Mount Hollywood Loop in Griffith Park offers hikers panoramic views of Los Angeles, including the Griffith Observatory, the Hollywood Sign, and the downtown skyline. The trail traverses diverse landscapes, from shaded paths to open ridges, providing a varied hiking experience. Along the…

Distance: 3.4 mi • Elevation gain: 896 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,503 ft

The hike to Alamere Falls via the Coast Trail in Point Reyes National Seashore offers a diverse array of landscapes, including coastal bluffs, serene lakes, and lush forests. Along the way, hikers can enjoy panoramic ocean vistas, pass by tranquil bodies of water such as Bass Lake and Pelican Lake, and…

Distance: 8.2 mi • Elevation gain: 1,558 ft • Maximum elevation: 610 ft

The Sandstone Peak and Inspiration Point Loop is a rewarding hike that combines scenic vistas and diverse rock formations. Along the route, you can admire sweeping views of the Santa Monica Mountains, with the option to extend your adventure to the remote Tri-Peaks and the unique Balanced Rock formations. The…

Distance: 6.1 mi • Elevation gain: 1,499 ft • Maximum elevation: 3,025 ft

The Dawn Mine Loop Trail in the Angeles National Forest offers hikers a diverse and rewarding experience. The journey begins with a shaded ascent through Millard Canyon, where the lush vegetation and occasional stream crossings provide a refreshing start. As you approach the historic Dawn Mine, the trail…

Distance: 5.4 mi • Elevation gain: 1,988 ft • Maximum elevation: 3,596 ft

The Donner Canyon Road, Middle Trail, and Falls Trail Loop in Mount Diablo State Park offers hikers a diverse experience, featuring open meadows, oak woodlands, and waterfalls cascading over multicolored rock formations, especially vibrant after seasonal rains. As you ascend, you'll be rewarded with panoramic…

Distance: 5.5 mi • Elevation gain: 1,460 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,686 ft

The Etiwanda Falls Trail, situated in the San Bernardino National Forest near Rancho Cucamonga, California, offers hikers a moderately challenging journey through diverse terrains. The path meanders through chaparral-covered foothills, providing occasional vistas of the surrounding mountains. Upon reaching the…

Distance: 3.2 mi • Elevation gain: 787 ft • Maximum elevation: 2,848 ft

The Clementine Trail, winding through the Auburn State Recreation Area, offers an enjoyable journey with picturesque views of both the American River and the surrounding terrain. Hikers will pass beneath the towering Foresthill Bridge, the tallest bridge in California, and be treated to dramatic vistas of the…

Distance: 4.5 mi • Elevation gain: 1,043 ft • Maximum elevation: 991 ft

The Tokopah Falls Trail in Sequoia National Park offers a delightful hiking experience, weaving through majestic forests and alongside the Marble Fork Kaweah River. Hikers can enjoy the serene beauty of the river, the towering granite cliffs, and the impressive Watchtower peak. The trail culminates at the base…

Distance: 4.1 mi • Elevation gain: 623 ft • Maximum elevation: 7,359 ft

The Big Springs Trail and Seaview Trail Loop in Tilden Regional Park offers a delightful hiking experience, combining shaded woodlands with open meadows. Hikers can enjoy panoramic vistas of the San Francisco skyline, the bay, and the San Pablo Reservoir. The route's moderate elevation changes and diverse…

Distance: 4.3 mi • Elevation gain: 968 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,660 ft

The Mount Wilson Trail in the Angeles National Forest offers hikers a challenging ascent through diverse ecosystems, including shaded woodlands and rugged canyons. Along the route, one can observe the historic ruins of Orchard Camp, a popular resort from the 1890s to the 1930s. Upon reaching the summit, hikers…

Distance: 14.3 mi • Elevation gain: 6,001 ft • Maximum elevation: 5,663 ft

The Three Sisters Falls Trail in Cleveland National Forest offers hikers a challenging yet rewarding journey through diverse landscapes. The path descends into a rugged canyon, providing expansive views of the surrounding mountains and the Boulder Creek valley. Upon reaching the falls, hikers are greeted by…

Distance: 3.9 mi • Elevation gain: 968 ft • Maximum elevation: 2,917 ft

The Fall Creek Loop Trail via the Cape Horn Trail offers a captivating journey through the lush redwood forests of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Along the route, hikers will encounter the peaceful flow of Fall Creek, towering second-growth redwoods, and historic lime kilns that highlight the park's rich industrial…

Distance: 3.5 mi • Elevation gain: 600 ft • Maximum elevation: 866 ft

The Cataract Trail in Mount Tamalpais Watershed offers hikers a serene journey through dense forests, accompanied by the soothing sounds of cascading waterfalls. Along the path, one can observe a series of waterfalls, including Cataract Falls, Helen Markt Falls, Midway Falls, and Laurel Dell Falls, each…

Distance: 3.1 mi • Elevation gain: 1,214 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,762 ft

The Sandstone Peak Loop via Backbone Trail and Mishe Mokwa Trail offers hikers a journey through chaparral-covered hillsides, rugged sandstone formations, and shaded oak woodlands. Along the route, notable landmarks such as Split Rock and Balanced Rock provide unique geological interest, while vistas from…

Distance: 6.2 mi • Elevation gain: 1,437 ft • Maximum elevation: 3,025 ft

The Eaton Canyon Trail offers hikers a scenic journey through a diverse landscape in the San Gabriel Mountains, beginning with a wide, dusty path that gradually transitions into a lush canyon environment. Along the way, hikers will cross gentle streams and observe a variety of flora, including oak trees and…

Distance: 1.6 mi • Elevation gain: 427 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,486 ft

The Vivian Creek Trail to San Gorgonio Mountain offers hikers a challenging ascent through diverse terrains, including shaded forests, alpine meadows, and rocky ridgelines. Along the route, one can observe a variety of plant life, from dense woodlands at lower elevations to sparse vegetation near the summit.…

Distance: 18.0 mi • Elevation gain: 5,574 ft • Maximum elevation: 11,490 ft

The Arch Rock Trail in Joshua Tree National Park offers a brief yet rewarding hike, leading to the park's renowned Arch Rock. Along the way, hikers can observe unique rock formations, including the distinctive white tank boulders, and a variety of desert flora such as creosote bushes, ocotillo plants, various…

Distance: 1.3 mi • Elevation gain: 85 ft • Maximum elevation: 3,914 ft

The Kwaay Paay Peak Trail in Mission Trails Regional Park offers hikers a rewarding journey through diverse landscapes, including chaparral and manzanita forests. The ascent is steep, with strategically placed stairs aiding the climb. Upon reaching the summit, hikers are treated to expansive views of San Diego…

Distance: 2.4 mi • Elevation gain: 883 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,158 ft

The Stevens Canyon Loop, traversing the Tony Look, Lookout, and Coyote Ridge Trails in Stevens Creek County Park, offers a diverse hiking experience. Hikers can enjoy views of the Stevens Creek Reservoir, rolling hills, oak woodlands, with occasional views of the distant San Jose area. The well-maintained…

Distance: 6.3 mi • Elevation gain: 1,211 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,010 ft

The Arch Rock Trail in Joshua Tree National Park offers a brief but captivating hiking experience, taking visitors through a vast landscape of unique rock formations and desert terrain. Along the way, hikers encounter the renowned Arch Rock, a natural rock arch that stands as a striking feature of the park,…

Distance: 1.6 mi • Elevation gain: 112 ft • Maximum elevation: 3,914 ft

The Fortynine Palms Trail offers a scenic and somewhat strenuous journey into the heart of Joshua Tree National Park. As hikers ascend the ridge, they are treated to panoramic desert views, featuring stark rocky landscapes and vibrant desert flora like barrel cacti, creosote bushes, and the occasional spiny…

Distance: 3.1 mi • Elevation gain: 692 ft • Maximum elevation: 3,081 ft

The hike along Solana Hills Trail, Rios Avenue Trail, and Gemma Parks Loop to Annie’s Canyon in the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve offers a serene blend of coastal wetlands, native chaparral, and sculpted sandstone canyons. As you meander through the trails, you'll encounter sweeping views of the…

Distance: 2.4 mi • Elevation gain: 427 ft • Maximum elevation: 253 ft

The Lake Chabot Loop via West Shore Trail, Chabot Dam, Bass Cove Trail, Columbine Trail, Honker Bay Trail and East Shore Trail offers a scenic and varied hiking experience, weaving through shaded forests, sunny open trails, and peaceful lakeside paths. Hikers can enjoy sweeping views of Lake Chabot from…

Distance: 8.8 mi • Elevation gain: 1,522 ft • Maximum elevation: 584 ft

The Oak Canyon Trail in Mission Trails Regional Park offers a peaceful and scenic hike that is perfect for those looking to escape the bustle of the city. As you walk along the path, you’ll pass through lush oak groves and cross small bridges, with the occasional seasonal waterfall providing a serene…

Distance: 3.2 mi • Elevation gain: 292 ft • Maximum elevation: 518 ft

The Congress Loop Trail in Sequoia National Park offers a serene and immersive experience among some of the most iconic giant sequoias in the world. Starting from the well-known General Sherman Tree, the trail winds through a peaceful forest where visitors can marvel at monumental trees like The President,…

Distance: 3.1 mi • Elevation gain: 646 ft • Maximum elevation: 7,113 ft

The Ridge, Panorama, and Bluffs Loop in Andrew Molera State Park offers a striking variety of landscapes, from peaceful meadows and the rugged Big Sur River to sweeping coastal views and the forested ridges. Hikers will enjoy diverse vistas, including expansive looks at the Pacific Ocean, and may even…

Distance: 8.0 mi • Elevation gain: 1,480 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,096 ft

The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trail offers a remarkable hiking experience through one of the largest and oldest groves of sequoia trees in Yosemite National Park. Starting from the Fallen Monarch, visitors are greeted by the impressive root system of this long-fallen sequoia. As you walk along the…

Distance: 6.9 mi • Elevation gain: 1,220 ft • Maximum elevation: 6,759 ft

Mission Peak Regional Preserve. #Hiking #Running #MTB #Loop #Mountain #Nature

Distance: 5.8 mi • Elevation gain: 2,129 ft • Maximum elevation: 2,500 ft

Distance: 1.9 mi • Elevation gain: 427 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,178 ft

The Four Mile Trail in Yosemite National Park provides hikers with a challenging yet rewarding experience. As you ascend the trail, you'll be treated to ever-changing views of Yosemite Valley, including dramatic overlooks of Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Fall, with distant glimpses of the Sierra…

Distance: 10.3 mi • Elevation gain: 5,262 ft • Maximum elevation: 7,208 ft

The Los Leones Trail and East Topanga Fire Road offer an excellent opportunity to experience the diverse beauty of Topanga State Park. Starting from the lush and shaded Los Leones Canyon, hikers are treated to a variety of vegetation, from coastal sage scrub to oak woodlands, with stunning vistas of the…

Distance: 4.2 mi • Elevation gain: 1,211 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,266 ft

The Clouds Rest Trail in Yosemite offers hikers a rewarding, strenuous challenge with breathtaking views throughout. As you ascend, the landscape transforms from lush forest to open granite ridgelines, with expansive vistas of Tenaya Lake and the iconic Half Dome in the distance. The final approach to the…

Distance: 12.6 mi • Elevation gain: 2,864 ft • Maximum elevation: 9,813 ft

The Mirror Lake Trail in Yosemite National Park offers a peaceful hike through Tenaya Canyon, framed by dramatic granite cliffs like Half Dome and North Dome. The trail winds alongside Tenaya Creek, providing a serene experience with forested sections, sandy riverbeds, and seasonal reflections in the lake,…

Distance: 2.8 mi • Elevation gain: 230 ft • Maximum elevation: 4,124 ft

The Tahquitz Canyon Loop Trail offers a moderate hike through the striking desert landscape, showcasing vivid rock formations and native vegetation. As you trek through the canyon, you’ll encounter culturally significant rock art and be treated to a spectacular view of Tahquitz Falls, which cascades over the…

Distance: 1.7 mi • Elevation gain: 390 ft • Maximum elevation: 915 ft

The hike to San Jacinto Peak is a stunning journey through diverse landscapes, starting with a steep ascent that transitions into tranquil alpine meadows. As you make your way through Round Valley and past Wellman Divide, the trail gradually opens to reveal expansive views of the Coachella Valley and…

Distance: 10.5 mi • Elevation gain: 2,575 ft • Maximum elevation: 10,761 ft

The Mount Umunhum Trail via the Guadalupe Creek Overlook offers hikers a varied and rewarding experience, showcasing a range of ecosystems from oak woodlands to chaparral scrub. Along the route, visitors are treated to expansive views of the Santa Clara Valley and surrounding mountain ranges, with notable…

Distance: 7.9 mi • Elevation gain: 1,962 ft • Maximum elevation: 3,438 ft

The Grizzly Giant Loop Trail in Yosemite's Mariposa Grove offers a relatively short yet captivating hike through some of the world's most magnificent giant sequoias. Along the route, hikers will encounter the iconic Grizzly Giant, an awe-inspiring tree over 2,700 years old and nearly 30 feet wide at its base.…

Distance: 2.0 mi • Elevation gain: 387 ft • Maximum elevation: 5,984 ft

The Grasslands Trail and Oak Canyon Trail Loop provides a diverse hiking experience. The Grasslands Loop offers expansive views of the rolling hills and chaparral, with opportunities for birdwatching, while the Oak Canyon Trail winds through oak groves along a dry creek bed, showcasing seasonal waterfalls. The…

Distance: 3.8 mi • Elevation gain: 420 ft • Maximum elevation: 594 ft

The Phantom Falls Trail offers a rewarding hike through rolling hills, vibrant wildflower meadows, and unique basalt rock formations. As you journey across the open landscape, seasonal vernal pools and grazing cattle add to the rustic charm. The trail culminates at Phantom Falls, a dramatic cascade plunging…

Distance: 3.8 mi • Elevation gain: 489 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,342 ft

The Painted Canyon and Ladder Canyon Trail Loop offers a dynamic mix of adventure and scenery, from colorful rock walls to narrow slot canyons. The trail's iconic ladders allow hikers to navigate through steep sections, adding a touch of excitement as they climb through twisting pathways. At higher points,…

Distance: 4.7 mi • Elevation gain: 1,060 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,339 ft

Distance: 1.5 mi • Elevation gain: 1,138 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,703 ft

The Mission Peak via Peak Trail offers a demanding but rewarding hike that presents remarkable panoramic views throughout the ascent. As hikers climb, they are treated to vistas of the Bay Area, including San Francisco, the East Bay hills, and distant landmarks like Mount Diablo. At the summit, the iconic…

Distance: 3.3 mi • Elevation gain: 2,028 ft • Maximum elevation: 2,464 ft

The Alamere Falls hike along the Coast Trail in the Point Reyes National Seashore is a enchanting journey that offers a variety of landscapes, from coastal views to serene lakes. Hikers are treated to a mix of coastal cliffs, rolling hills, and lush forests, with the opportunity to see two tranquil lakes along…

Distance: 4.1 mi • Elevation gain: 705 ft • Maximum elevation: 610 ft

This trail to Tom LaBonge Panorama offers a moderately challenging hike in Griffith Park, winding through scenic vistas with views of Mount Hollywood, Taco Peak, and the iconic Hollywood Sign. The trail provides a rewarding panoramic perspective of Los Angeles, including landmarks like the Griffith Park Old…

Distance: 6.2 mi • Elevation gain: 1,512 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,568 ft

The Upper Yosemite Fall Trail is a demanding hike that rewards adventurers with breathtaking panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the mighty Yosemite Falls. As you ascend, you'll pass through diverse terrain, from oak forests and steep switchbacks to open sections offering sweeping vistas. The…

Distance: 6.3 mi • Elevation gain: 4,925 ft • Maximum elevation: 6,690 ft

The Lassen Peak Trail offers a challenging yet rewarding ascent to the summit of Lassen Peak, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. As you make your way up, you'll experience dramatic changes in terrain, from dense forests to open, rocky sections above the treeline, with…

Distance: 4.7 mi • Elevation gain: 2,060 ft • Maximum elevation: 10,374 ft

The Sunset Trail offers a scenic and rewarding hiking experience, leading to three distinct waterfalls: Silver Falls, The Cascades, and Golden Falls. Along the way, hikers will be immersed in lush redwood forests, crossing over cool streams and ascending rocky terrain. The trail provides views of these…

Distance: 4.7 mi • Elevation gain: 1,188 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,424 ft

The Ryan Mountain Trail offers an exhilarating climb with dramatic, sweeping views across the Mojave Desert. As hikers ascend, they are greeted by striking rock formations, including ancient granite boulders, and the iconic Joshua trees scattered throughout the park’s vast landscape. From the summit, the…

Distance: 2.9 mi • Elevation gain: 1,060 ft • Maximum elevation: 5,446 ft

The Bear Canyon Trail Camp route offers a rewarding adventure through the scenic Angeles National Forest. Along the path, hikers can enjoy the calming sounds of water while crossing the Arroyo Seco, pass by the lush, shaded areas of Bear Creek, and take in views of Switzer Falls from various vantage points.…

Distance: 3.3 mi • Elevation gain: 745 ft • Maximum elevation: 3,327 ft

The Bear Gulch Cave, High Peaks, and Condor Gulch trails offer a breathtaking loop through Pinnacles National Park, showcasing its striking volcanic formations, unique wildlife, and sweeping vistas. As you hike, you'll traverse narrow canyons, rocky spires, and expansive views, with the possibility of spotting…

Distance: 5.4 mi • Elevation gain: 1,614 ft • Maximum elevation: 2,566 ft

Iron Mountain Peak Trail offers a rewarding hike with a mix of scenic landscapes and challenging ascents. The route is particularly notable for its panoramic views, including sweeping vistas of surrounding mountains like Cuyamaca Peak and El Cajon Mountain, as well as distant sights of San Diego and the ocean.…

Distance: 5.6 mi • Elevation gain: 1,184 ft • Maximum elevation: 2,635 ft

The Mount Tallac Trail offers a breathtaking and demanding route with a rewarding summit experience. Early sections of the hike pass by serene alpine lakes like Floating Island Lake, offering a peaceful atmosphere and views of the surrounding mountains, including Fallen Leaf Lake. As you ascend, the trail…

Distance: 4.5 mi • Elevation gain: 3,205 ft • Maximum elevation: 9,705 ft

The Andesite Peak Loop in the Tahoe National Forest, is a diverse and rewarding hike. Along the way, you'll traverse through lush meadows, ascend rocky ridgelines, and enjoy sweeping views of surrounding peaks like Castle Peak, with its volcanic features from ancient eruptions. The route provides an…

Distance: 4.8 mi • Elevation gain: 915 ft • Maximum elevation: 8,064 ft

The hike to Morgan Lakes via the Little Lakes Valley Trail offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Eastern Sierra. Starting at Mosquito Flat, the trail weaves through a stunning landscape filled with serene alpine lakes like Mack Lake, Marsh Lake, Heart Lake and Box Lake, all framed by towering…

Distance: 4.6 mi • Elevation gain: 1,060 ft • Maximum elevation: 11,096 ft

The route to Castle Peak in Tahoe National Forest offers a scenic and moderate challenge for hikers, with expansive views of the Sierra Nevada's rugged terrain. The trail weaves through a mixture of rocky ridgelines, alpine meadows, and forested paths, revealing picturesque vistas of distant peaks such as…

Distance: 5.9 mi • Elevation gain: 1,900 ft • Maximum elevation: 8,986 ft

The Pyramid Peak Trail in Eldorado National Forest offers a challenging and rewarding hike, leading to impressive views of the surrounding wilderness. Along the route, hikers encounter a mix of alpine terrain, including meadows, ponds, and the dramatic rock formations typical of the Sierra Nevada. The trail's…

Distance: 6.4 mi • Elevation gain: 3,944 ft • Maximum elevation: 9,957 ft

The Russell Point Loop at Castle Rock State Park offers a rewarding hike through diverse terrain, with views that include the rugged cliffs of Castle Rock, the cascading Castle Rock Falls, and the sweeping vistas from the Emily Smith Observation Point. As hikers progress, they are treated to panoramic views of…

Distance: 5.4 mi • Elevation gain: 1,532 ft • Maximum elevation: 3,153 ft

The Vernal Fall hike offers a visually captivating journey through Yosemite's diverse landscapes. The Mist Trail, which approaches the fall directly, presents hikers with striking close-up views of Vernal Fall as the path winds upward alongside the cascading waters. As you ascend, the dramatic spray from the…

Distance: 1.5 mi • Elevation gain: 1,217 ft • Maximum elevation: 5,128 ft

Hike from Happy Isles to Half Dome via John Muir Trail, Merced River, Vernal Fall and Mist Trail in the Yosemite National Park. #Hiking #Mountain #Nature #Forest #River #Fall #Yosemite #Park

Distance: 15.4 mi • Elevation gain: 6,506 ft • Maximum elevation: 8,816 ft

The hike to Echo Mountain via the Lower Sam Merrill Trail offers a blend of history, nature, and panoramic views of the Los Angeles area. As you ascend, you'll pass remnants of the old Mt. Lowe Railway, including the ruins of the Echo Mountain House, which was once a luxurious resort accessible only by incline…

Distance: 5.6 mi • Elevation gain: 2,467 ft • Maximum elevation: 3,189 ft

The Duck Pass Trail in the Inyo National Forest is a favorite for hiking enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views and access to pristine alpine lakes such as Skelton Lake, Barney Lake, and the expansive Duck Lake. The trail begins in a shaded forest with steady climbs and switchbacks, opening up to serene…

Distance: 5.6 mi • Elevation gain: 1,919 ft • Maximum elevation: 10,774 ft

The Tomales Point Trail in Point Reyes National Seashore offers dramatic coastal views, with sweeping panoramas of both the Pacific Ocean and Tomales Bay. As you hike along the exposed bluffs, you'll encounter a variety of natural wonders, including the iconic Tule Elk, often spotted lounging in the grasslands…

Distance: 9.6 mi • Elevation gain: 1,339 ft • Maximum elevation: 531 ft

The Inspiration Point hike via the Tunnel Trail offers a relatively moderate adventure through the beautiful landscapes of Los Padres National Forest. The route, starting at Tunnel Road, is a combination of shaded chaparral and rocky terrain as you ascend to a prominent overlook. Along the way, you'll be…

Distance: 3.6 mi • Elevation gain: 1,086 ft • Maximum elevation: 1,798 ft

The hike to Ediza Lake via the Shadow Creek Trail offers a remarkable journey through the scenic heart of the Ansel Adams Wilderness. As you pass Shadow Lake, you'll witness serene waters framed by towering peaks, while the trail winds through lush forests, cascading streams, and wildflower-filled meadows.…

Distance: 6.8 mi • Elevation gain: 1,519 ft • Maximum elevation: 9,314 ft