Amy C Balfour - Lonely Planet Best Day Walks California (Hiking Guide)

PLAN YOUR TRIP

BY REGION

FIRES

Summer wildfires have become a regular occurrence in California, and some trails may have been affected since this guidebook went to print. Always check fire warnings (www.fire.ca.gov) when hiking in the summer, and confirm that trails are still open.

COVID-19

We have re-checked every business in this book before publication to ensure that it is still open after the COVID-19 outbreak. However, the economic and social impacts of COVID-19 will continue to be felt long after the outbreak has been contained, and many businesses, services and events referenced in this guide may experience ongoing restrictions. Some businesses may be temporarily closed, have changed their opening hours and services, or require bookings; some unfortunately could have closed permanently. We suggest you check with venues before visiting for the latest information.

Gorgeous alpine lakes reflect jagged Sierra Nevada peaks on this high-altitude ramble through the Little Lakes Valley.

Big Surs quintessential coastal trail serves up phenomenal Pacific Ocean views en route to a pair of wild and secluded beaches.

Tucked in a far-flung corner of the remote Northern Coast, this idyllic trail through soaring old-growth redwoods is a blessing of solitude and wonder.

Thunderous waterfalls and soaring granite peaks mark this classic loop as it climbs the Giant Staircase on the Mist Trail and descends on the John Muir Trail.

This cinematic coastal trail has sights for nearly every mood: invigorating grassy bluffs, bright summer wildflowers, dramatic frothy seas, moody elk, and a mettle-testing mountain climb.

Enjoy unparalleled perspectives of Californias favorite bridge and immerse in local life as you pass joggers, fishers and kayakers on this iconic urban trail.

Live your own Tolkienesque adventure as you navigate the Fantastic Lava Beds and the Painted Dunes on your journey into the crater of an ancient volcano.

An exhilarating roller coaster, the Rubicon Trail swoops and swerves though the forest on the shores of Lake Tahoe then brakes at a Scandinavian castle.

A chance to see bighorn sheep, a lush palm oasis, a gazillion thirsty bees and a stunning desertscape make this hike more heavenly than hellish.

Popular for a reason, Potato Chip Rocks lovely, varied terrain features gorgeous views, a pretty reservoir, and of course the Potato Chip selfie op.

RICHARD BIZICK/SHUTTERSTOCK

g BIG VIEWS

From rugged cliffside beaches to blackened lava beds to sprawling lake-and-mountain tableaus, gobsmacking landscapes are a reliable backdrop.

Sandstone cliffs stretch for miles along wilderness beaches in Point Reyes National Seashore.

Enjoy expansive views of Half Dome (pictured above) and terrifying sheer cliffs on this Glacier Point Rd loop hike.

From the summit of an active volcano, see volcanic peaks, lakes and a lush former wasteland.

See alpine lakes, a ski resort, Sierra peaks and reminders of a pioneer tragedy from atop Mt Judah.

Your reward after this strenuous Death Valley climb? Panoramic views of the Mojave Desert.

c ESCAPING THE CROWDS

Its hard to find solitude on top-notch hikes near the city. Which means youll likely have to drive an hour or two for quiet contemplation.

This Big Sur park (pictured above)sweeps in dramatic coastal cliffs and a hidden remnant of redwood forest.

An abandoned lighthouse sets the tone for a lonely sojourn across a windswept beach.

This quiet trail unfurls beneath 2000-year-old sequoias in a lovely park deep in the Sierra Nevada.

Eighty miles from San Diego, this trail rolls deep into a desert canyon to a seasonal waterfall.

Get lost in hilly, oak-dotted grasslands in one of Californias largest and least-visited state parks.

MEXCELL90/SHUTTERSTOCK

s POST-HIKE CHEER

Kick back and share stories about your trail adventures.

Enjoy a post-hike libation at the Pelican Inn (pictured above), a British-style pub.