Top 5 Hiking in California

Arcata, CA 95521, United States

“Absolutely stunning hiking around here. A local recommended it to me and I couldn’t be more grateful to explore this gem of a place. The trails were so peaceful and serene, it was absolutely breathtaking, and I would love to return just to hike here given the chance! One of the photos I took here has been my phone lock screen for a few months now :•) honestly couldn’t recommend more highly!!”

Movie Flat Rd, Lone Pine, CA 93545, United States

“Trails are easy on most of the arches we visited. Love the area in Alabama Hills. Great place to stargaze and camp. No bathroom just portable potty on some locations. I love the beauty of Mt. Whitney with snow on top. We visited in late Dec and some of the roads were closed.”

1628 Lomas Santa Fe Dr, Del Mar, CA 92014, United States

“When adults and teens could have their own ‘playground’ a.k.a the sports area, the park is 5 stars for me. Loved the sports area!! But I hope the city will build more courts, as one volleyball and basketball won’t be enough on warmer days. Also, maybe the park would make lower park and upper park connected with cars in the future, it’s gonna be better to enjoy the entire area.”

11055 East Dr, Morongo Valley, CA 92256, United States

“Just a great experience! Been to JTNP many times and wanted to get to know the Morongo Valley more. Donated money at the birdseed donation box because that was awesome! A gem of a place to hike at any ability level. Excellent maps and trail markings, and one trail is all boardwalk for complete accessibility! Great wildlife viewing opportunities especially toward evening with this heat. Info center is awesome - read it all before you go so you know what you are seeing! Will come back to check out the rest of the trails! We did two yesterday. 👣”

Santa Barbara, CA 93109, United States

“If you wanna take a look from a high point this is the right spot! You can have a little walk, picnic watching the ocean and the Amazing variety of big 🌳. If you have a dog this park is made for them ! There is also a fountain with water and a lot of shadows!”

Cataract Trail, Stinson Beach, CA 94970, United States

”Cataract Trailhead offers an exhilarating hiking experience with its challenging yet manageable terrain. The trail is not overly difficult, but its steep incline and substantial elevation gain provide a good workout for hikers seeking a moderate challenge. The descent, particularly over rocky sections, can be precarious, making hiking sticks a valuable companion for stability. Waterproof shoes are advisable due to the trail's muddy conditions, enhancing the overall trekking experience. The trail is adorned with numerous waterfalls, creating a picturesque and serene atmosphere that nature enthusiasts will appreciate. Starting from the top at Mt. Tamalpais Watershed, the journey unfolds into a waterfall haven, showcasing the beauty of cascading water as you progress down the path. One consideration for visitors is the limited street parking, making it essential to arrive early, as the area tends to fill up quickly. The trail is not a loop but rather an out-and-back adventure, providing the opportunity to retrace your steps and admire the breathtaking scenery in reverse. Covering approximately 4-5 miles from the starting point to the bridge, Cataract Trailhead is a delightful excursion for those who relish the charm of waterfalls and the challenge of a steep yet rewarding trail. Overall, it's a captivating journey through nature that deserves to be experienced firsthand.”

18405 Mt Hamilton Rd, Mt Hamilton, CA 95140, United States

”A pleasant park, particularly suitable for mountain biking. The Friday visit wasn't overly crowded. The presence of a serene lake and benches allows for a delightful coffee experience with a stunning view. Definitely worth a visit.”

2 Park Pl, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275, United States

”Beautiful place to see a wide view of the Pacific Ocean. Reserved parking signs were up. I'm not sure for what reason, but we just parked and watched the sunset for about 20 minutes. Definitely recommend checking this view out if you are in the area. I didn't see any kids' areas or playgrounds or restrooms.”

16275 Espola Rd, Poway, CA 92064, United States

”Lake Poway's lot was full so we parked here and walked a big loop that covered the lake. Nice hike with trees, greens, and some flowers (thanks to the unusual amount of rain this year I guess). Lot closes at sunset.”

1600 US-101, Garberville, CA 95542, United States

”Tania, the Ranger, was very friendly and attentive, and even showed my kids some bats in a tree! Beautiful State Park. Definitely will come back.”

3550 Pecho Valley Rd, Los Osos, CA 93402, United States

”Beautiful little tucked away spot, first time coming here as an adult, I wanna say nearby 20 years ago I was here as a kid while staying at Camp Keep which is actually right down the road from here and we visited the tide pools here at Spooners cove, This is a nice spot that is somewhat well kept and maintained besides the parking lot being a little rough for low profile cars. Watched a beautiful sunset and tried to do a time-lapse also. Definitely worth the short drive to come check out and the tons of other scenic spots along the way 😎”

26800 Mulholland Hwy, Calabasas, CA 91302, United States

”We were there for the Holiday Road event. Overall it was pretty darn cool. They had some displays that you don't see at other holiday light events. I think that the pictures speak for themselves. Love that there were food trucks and bars set up on the premise as well. Always a plus in our books.”

501 Monterey-Salinas Highway 68, Salinas, CA 93908, United States

”Scenic and spacious public park that is hugely popular for parties, events, or just BBQing with family and friends. There are a handful of full service picnic shelters with counters, sinks, and BBQ pits for cooking over a wood fire...these must be reserved in advance and they're very popular. There are picnic tables and cans for trash and recycling at each shelter too. The bathrooms are clean but lacking hand soap. The patches of grass are drying out due to the drought, but still usable for sports. There are hiking trails throughout the park too; along with volleyball nets and horseshoe courts. The area is still scenic despite the lack of rain, but it would look a lot nicer with greener vegetation. Lots of birds and wild turkeys were visible on our visit...probably more wildlife too. A wonderful place to spend a weekend afternoon.”

45500 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, United States

”The campground was clean, the bathrooms and trash were well maintained, and most of the trails were open. We stayed at the trail camp, it wasn’t too long, (1/4mi) or difficult, but does have about 10 stairs so plan accordingly. The distance …”

6999 W Main St, Guadalupe, CA 93434, United States

”I've gone here on quite a few occasions for a nice, relaxing, quiet beach walk. It doesn't get very crowded so you can walk for a really long time and only come across one or two people. There's not much here and a lot of wide open space so I imagine it would be a great place to bring dogs. It is pretty far out of the way so I don't know that a ton of people come out here. I imagine it would be a great place to view the sunset.”

9550 Milden St, La Mesa, CA 91942, United States

”Plenty of parking, huge park with several playgrounds for kids. It can be a little muddy after the rain. There's an outdoor theater near the gate, not sure if they use it for anything. Again, it's a really big park so very spacious for multiple birthday parties going on at the same time. The Men's restroom needs better maintenance and cleaning. The dog park is also nearby but we didn't go over there. Really appreciate those who kept the leash on the dog, especially next to the playground.”

100 Loch Lomond Way, Felton, CA 95018, United States

”Love this place. One of the only “lakes” in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Very peaceful. Paddle boat rentals are great. Lots of parking, trails are great along the water and there is plenty to explore. Will say that the picnic areas are tough for those with small kids, all the tables near the water are on a slope.”

19245 Malaguerra Ave, Morgan Hill, CA 95037, United States

”Park is well maintained. You can find many shaded areas in the park which makes it a perfect spot for picnic or BBQ parties.”

33401 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675, United States

”A very nice park with a lot of wildlife (squirrels, birds, rabbits). Had a wonderful 2 night stay, but for some reason the water is off. A great value spot in OC that’s right down the road from San Juan Capistrano and Mission Viejo. 25-30 min from the coast, but the temps were very pleasant.”

4945 Heise Park Rd, Julian, CA 92036, United States

”We spent a lovely 3 days tent camping here. The bathrooms were super clean, the rangers were friendly, and the park was clean. Love camping here!”