California

Looking for the best hiking in California? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around California. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Hiking Spots in and near California

  • Wawona, California

    Dewey Point Trail

    4.95 mi / 315 ft gain
    This approximately 5-mile out-and-back trail is a great hike in Yosemite National Park. This trail starts off of Dewey Point's Meadow Trail, but you can also start from the Dewey Point Ridge trail, which you'll pass first when coming up Glacier Point Road. This trail is not dog friendly, but is a...
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  • Lone Pine, California

    Explore The Heart Arch

    A small heart shaped arch naturally formed in the bounders at The Alabama Hills, at the foothills of the Sierras. The Alabama Hills are formation of rounded rocks near the eastern Slope of the Sierra Nevada in the Owens Valley. It is a popular filming location for movie and television show produ...
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  • San Simeon, California

    Elephant Seal Vista Point

    5.0
    Elephant Seal Vista Point is a favorite place to see the elephant seals. If you’re in the area and have the opportunity, it's a must see. During the Spring, the adult elephant seals and the baby seals are out. Nearby are easy, clearly marked, walking paths, along the cliffs edge. Dogs are not all...
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  • Mariposa County, California

    Hike to Turtleback Dome

    1.4 mi / 350 ft gain
    Turtleback Dome will provide you with views of southern Yosemite and the Valley in a less crowded area. This hike on a service road is relatively easy with a slight elevation gain over the entire 0.7 miles. To get to the Trailhead, take Wawona Road north towards the valley. Use the referenced poi...
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  • Tiburon, California

    Angel Island Perimeter Loop

    5.98 mi / 794 ft gain
    Angel Island Perimeter Loop is a loop trail around the circumference of the island in the San Francisco Bay. The island is located near Tiburon, California with views  of downtown San Francisco, Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, Oakland, Sausalito, and TIburon as you traverse around the island. ...
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  • Ojai, California

    Willett Hot Springs via Sespe River Trail

    20.08 mi / 2598 ft gain
    Park at the Lions Camp parking lot. Adventure Passes aren't technically "required" but it never hurts to have one. You can stop at the Forest Service in Ojai (1190 E. Ojai Ave) or stop at the Wheeler Gorge Station on your way up to buy one for $5 for a night. The trail begins at the far side of t...
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  • Malibu, California

    Ocean Overlook Loop Trail

    4.0
    2.7 mi / 397 ft gain
    Ocean Overlook Loop Trail is a loop trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Malibu, California.
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  • Los Angeles, California

    Porter Ranch Ridge

    4.0
    3.36 mi / 548 ft gain
    Porter Ranch Ridge is an out-and-back trail where you may see local wildlife located near Los Angeles, California.
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  • Bishop, California

    Bishop Pass Trail to John Muir Trail to Piute Trail

    52.67 mi / 9173 ft gain
    Bishop Pass Trail to John Muir Trail to Piute Trail is a point-to-point trail that takes you by a lake located near Bishop, California.
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  • Santa Monica, California

    Santa Monica Pier, Boardwalk, and Beach Trail

    4.0
    3.33 mi / 20 ft gain
    The Santa Monica Pier, Boardwalk, and Beach Trail in Santa Monica, California, offers a unique blend of coastal and urban hiking. The trail is a flat, paved 3.33-mile loop that is suitable for all skill levels. It starts at the Santa Monica Pier, a historic landmark known for its Ferris wheel and...
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  • Larkspur, California

    Dawn Falls Trail Loop

    2.79 mi / 466 ft gain
    Dawn Falls Trail Loop is a loop trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Larkspur, California.
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  • Big Sur, California

    Hike down to Jade Cove

    2.0
    0.3 mi / 65 ft gain
    The entrance to jade cove is off the side of the road on Hwy 1.  There is lots of side parking available.  You go down a short unmarked trail and keep left.  You'll find yourself at the top of a cliff/mountain side that uses 2 ropes to get down.  The first rope is short and not super difficult.  ...
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  • Shasta County, California

    Summit Mt. Lassen via the Northeast Face

    5.0
    8 mi / 4000 ft gain
    This route is perfect for those with some mountaineering skill looking to challenge themselves on either a long day climb (10-12 hours) of one of California’s most iconic peaks.  1: The approach (1500 feet of elevation gain) For the best chance of summiting, start very early, around 2-4 am. Most ...
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  • Canyon Lake, California

    Kabian Memorial Park Loop

    5.0
    3.48 mi / 335 ft gain
    Kabian Memorial Park Loop is a loop trail that takes you by a lake located near Quail Valley, California.
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  • San Francisco, California

    Lake Merced Loop

    4.7
    4.53 mi / 180 ft gain
    Lake Merced Loop is a loop trail in the southwestern part of San Francisco. This trail is used for running and walking. You'll see plenty of people getting exercise or taking their dog for a stroll. There are also benches and tables around the loop. The lake itself is fresh water and is used for...
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  • San Francisco, California

    Vulcan Steps

    5.0
    0.18 mi / 79 ft gain
    Vulcan Steps is an out-and-back trail that takes you past scenic surroundings located near San Francisco, California.
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