or pick your starting city — the number is how many trails we list.
Every region has its own hike.
Pick a region in California, discover its landscapes and compare trails by duration, level and access: 168 trails in 11 regions.
By François Dumaine · updated March 12, 2026
Cobb Mountain, California, North Coast · photo from the LGPO trail page
Everything you need for your next hike. Bilingual, printable, 1 page.
Download the free checklistDogs are allowed on 1 of our trails; each trail page gives the rules.
See our selectionDifferent landscapes. Real leads to help you choose.
41 trails
37 trails
20 trails
18 trails
14 trails
11 trails
8 trails
7 trails
5 trails
4 trails
3 trails
26 of our 168 trails are rated easy; Gold Country (9), Greater Los Angeles (4) and Bay Area (3) have the most. For a first trail: Cobb Mountain, California (1.0 km, 12 min) and Bald Hill, California (1.6 km, 19 min).
Our trail pages say dogs are allowed on 1 trails and not allowed on 10; for 157, the information is not confirmed. Always check the site manager's rules, especially about leashes.
For the widest choice: Sierra Nevada (41 trails) and Gold Country (37 trails).
It depends on the place. parks and several reserves may charge an access fee, sometimes with a booking. The trail page says so when the information is known, and the site manager's own website remains the reference.
California stands as one of North America's premier hiking destinations, offering an extraordinary diversity of landscapes across its vast 163,696 square miles. From the towering peaks of the Sierra Nevada to the rugged Pacific coastline, the Golden State presents unparalleled opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure in some of the continent's most spectacular natural settings.
The Sierra Nevada dominates California's eastern spine, home to iconic destinations like Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks. This granite wonderland offers everything from gentle valley walks to challenging high-alpine adventures. The Cascade Range in the north features volcanic peaks including Mount Shasta, providing unique geological experiences and pristine wilderness areas.
Along the coast, the Pacific Coast Ranges deliver dramatic ocean vistas and redwood forests, while the Transverse Ranges near Los Angeles offer accessible mountain escapes from urban centers. The eastern Mojave Desert presents a completely different hiking experience with Joshua Tree's otherworldly landscapes and Death Valley's extreme beauty.
The John Muir Trail represents the pinnacle of Sierra Nevada hiking, traversing 211 miles of high-country wilderness. The Pacific Crest Trail spans California's entire length, offering sections suitable for day hikes and multi-day adventures through diverse ecosystems.
Mount Whitney, California's highest peak, challenges experienced hikers with its demanding summit approach. Half Dome in Yosemite provides an unforgettable granite climbing experience, while the Mist Trail offers spectacular waterfall views accessible to intermediate hikers. Along the coast, the McWay Falls Trail showcases Big Sur's dramatic beauty, and Mount Tamalpais near San Francisco delivers panoramic bay views.
California's hiking network accommodates all experience levels with remarkable variety. Beginners can explore gentle coastal paths, redwood grove walks, and valley floor trails that provide stunning scenery without technical challenges. Intermediate hikers find endless options in foothill regions, moderate mountain ascents, and scenic lake destinations.
Advanced adventurers can tackle challenging peak ascents, technical rock scrambles, and multi-day wilderness expeditions. The state's extensive trail system ensures that whether you're seeking a peaceful nature walk or an extreme mountaineering challenge, California delivers exceptional experiences.
California's diverse climate zones enable four-season outdoor recreation. Summer brings perfect conditions for high-elevation hiking, alpine lake visits, and extended backpacking trips in the Sierra Nevada. Spring and fall offer ideal weather for desert exploration, coastal hiking, and foothill adventures with comfortable temperatures and clear skies.
Winter transforms the mountains into snow-covered wonderlands perfect for snowshoeing and winter hiking, while lower elevations remain accessible year-round. The coastal regions provide consistent hiking opportunities regardless of season, making California a true twelve-month destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
California's geographical diversity creates extraordinary natural variety. The state encompasses everything from below-sea-level desert basins to 14,000-foot granite peaks, ancient redwood forests to pristine alpine meadows. Coastal bluffs, volcanic landscapes, and vast wilderness areas provide endless exploration opportunities.
Wildlife viewing enhances every hiking experience, with opportunities to observe black bears, mountain lions, diverse bird species, and unique desert fauna. The state's commitment to conservation ensures these natural treasures remain protected for future generations of hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The optimal hiking season varies by region, with late spring through early fall providing the best conditions for high-elevation adventures. Coastal areas remain accessible year-round, while desert regions shine during cooler months from October through April.
Major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego provide convenient access points to nearby hiking areas, while California's extensive national and state park system offers excellent camping and lodging options. From luxury resorts to backcountry camping, accommodation choices suit every preference and budget, making California hiking adventures accessible to all outdoor enthusiasts.
