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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Oceanside, California
Bike or Skate the Strand
4.01 mi / 0 ft gainOceanside's iconic Strand is a 1 mile long ocean-front road that is perfect for cycling, walking, and running. At various points it is one way or pedestrian only, and is a must-do for any visitors to Oceanside.From the north The Strand begins at Breakwater Way and heads south underneath The Ocean...Read more -
Pacific Grove, California
Catch Sunset on Asilomar State Beach
Asilomar, or “refuge by the sea” definitely lives up to its name. The beach is expansive and less-populated than other nearby destinations. With large sandbars and rocky outcroppings, it is a great place to enjoy sunset. This beach is also known for its premium surf, so expect a show from the lo...Read more -
Twentynine Palms, California
Explore Cottonwood Spring
Just east of the Cottonwood Visitor Center. This scenic spot provides access to cottonwood spring. The spring is a short walk down from the parking lot, and was formed from earthquakes! It was a popular spot for natives and settlers to gather water back in the day. As you approach the springs you...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Visit the Conservatory of Flowers
4.7Spend a day exploring Golden Gate Park by jogging, cycling, or leisurely strolling. There are so many fantastic stops in the park including a variety of lakes, playgrounds, a golf course, the California Academy of Science, the Conservatory of Flowers, and much much more! It is definitely worth ...Read more -
Borrego Springs, California
Hike the Panorama Overlook in Anza Borrego Desert State Park
1.6 mi / 636 ft gainThis is an out and back 1.6 mile round trip with 636 feet of elevation gain. The top has excellent views of Anza Borrego. It is close to the visitor center.Read more -
Pacific Crest Trail, California
Camp at Warner Valley
Warner Valley Campground is at the end of Warner Valley Road. It's 16 dollars a night at a first come first serve basis. As far as the campground it self, there are a few bathrooms and each site has a fire ring and a picnic table. There are 17 sites which isn't a ton but since it's a fairly unuse...Read more -
Wawona, California
Wawona Swinging Bridge Trail
1.29 mi / 121 ft gainThe hike to the Wawona Swinging Bridge is a 0.7 mile dirt path. Start at the trailhead located next to the parking lot. The hike is surrounded by many trees which offers a lot of shade. For the first couple of minutes the trail is fairly straight. You then begin to hike down for just a minute or ...Read more -
Santa Rosa, California
Gunsight Rock via Hood Mountain Trail
5.07.91 mi / 2372 ft gainHike to Gunsight Rock through Hood Mountain Regional Park to get a view overlooking Sonoma and Napa Valley. In order to get to the trailhead take Highway 12 to Los Alamos Rd, the road will then turn into Timberline Dr, this will take you to the trailhead. There is a parking fee of $8. From the p...Read more -
Glendale, California
Beaudry Loop
5.79 mi / 1572 ft gainThe Beaudry Loop trail features a bench at the top with 360 degree views of the greater LA area. The trailhead is a little hidden on Beaudry Blvd. As Beaudry Blvd turns into Beaudry Terrace, you'll see cars parked at the paved trailhead. There is very little shade on the trail so bring ample sun...Read more -
Ventura, California
Bike the Sulphur Mountain Loop
28.6 mi / 2884 ft gainThe Sulphur Mountain Loop is a 28 mile cycling and mountain biking loop that begins in Ventura Canyon at the Sulphur Mountain Trailhead and loops through Ojai Valley. Beginning at the Sulphur Mountain Road trailhead off Highway 33, follow the road up and over Sulphur Mountain and down until it co...Read more -
Hemet, California
Hike South Fork Trail
5.4 mi / 1056 ft gainBegin by following the unsigned but visible trail on the south side of the turnout. You climb steadily through bushes and past granite boulders. At half a mile, you pass over to the western slope of the hill where the trail bends southeast, providing your first look of the river valley far below....Read more -
Burney, California
Northshore Campground
The name of the campground, Northshore Campground, speaks for itself. It's located on the northern side of Lake Britton, across the water from the main state park camping area. This is nice for us as it's easier to get a spot, and it's much quieter. Campground Reservations It's a PG&E campgr...Read more -
Arroyo Grande, California
Explore the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes
The Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes and nearby Lake Oso Flaco are home to many endangered and threatened species of plants and animals. A beautiful, short boardwalk takes you from the parking lot, over Lake Oso Flaco, and through the dunes before arriving at the ocean. Enjoy the local wildlife and abundan...Read more -
Truckee, California
Ride the Truckee Bike Park
5.01 mi / 50 ft gainTruckee bike park is a great destination for all ages of bike riders. There are several different features including a pump track, dual slalom course, dirt jumps, strider track and more! This park is kid friendly but be sure to pack a helmet and pads especially for first-timers. More experienced ...Read more -
South Lake Tahoe, California
Stand Up Paddle Board Yoga at Lakeview Commons
Stand up paddle board yoga is some of the most difficult and rewarding yoga there is and you would be hard-pressed to find a more beautiful place to do so than on the south shore of Lake Tahoe. Lakeview Commons is a city park that provide direct lake access for the public, including boats, along...Read more -
Napa, California
Westwood Hills Park Loop
4.02.12 mi / 476 ft gainThis park can get a little crowded on weekends, so best to go early if possible. In terms of parking, there's a lot at the trailhead, but also plenty of available street parking. The loop can be broken up in a various ways as there are several offshoots from the main trailhead/trail leaving fro...Read more
