California’s best hiking trails

Planning a getaway in the great outdoors?

If you’re looking to hit the trails, expert sources at Tripadvisor, Travel+Leisure and AllTrails have compiled lists of popular hiking spots across the state.

In a recent study, California was named the second best state for hiking in the United States due to its scenic beauty, number of hiking trails and other factors.

“Whether exploring the Pacific Crest Trail or wandering through redwood forests, California offers a suitable trail for every hiker,” the study by GB The Green Brand said.

From cascading waterfalls to rugged sea cliffs, our journalists with How To California — a community-driven series designed to help readers navigate life in the Golden State — have rounded up the top destinations for you to enjoy on foot.

Behind our reporting

Our community-driven series — How to California — is here to answer your questions about state laws, history, culture, recreation and travel in the Golden State.

McClatchy’s service journalism team, focused on helping our readers navigate daily life, works in communities across the state, including San Luis Obispo, Fresno, Merced, Modesto and Sacramento.

Ask us your questions — big and small — by emailing [email protected] or filling out a form here.

Cataract Falls Trail

Travel+Leisure listed the Cataract Falls Trail in Marin County’s Mount Tamalpais State Park as one of the best spot for hikers in California.

The trail is about a two-hour drive from Sacramento, according to Google Maps.

“Hikers can follow the rushing waters of Cataract Creek through a primordial forest of redwoods, live oaks and Douglas firs, and past numerous small waterfalls along this out-and-back trail,” Travel+Leisure said.

Half Moon Bay Coastside Trail

Tripadvisor recommended the Half Moon Bay Coastside Trail in San Mateo County as a top destination for hikers.

The trail is about a two-hour drive from Modesto and a little farther from Sacramento, according to Google Maps.

It is an “easy and scenic hiking trail along the Pacific coast,” Tripadvisor said.

According to AllTrails, the 2.7-mile trail offers an easy, paved pathway with beautiful coastal views, wildflowers and succulents.

Lands End Trail

The Lands End Trail in San Francisco offers “postcard-perfect views of the Golden Gate Bridge,” Travel+Leisure said.

According to the National Park Service, the trail is about 2.9 miles long.

The trail is about a two-hour drive from Modesto and Sacramento, according to Google Maps.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

AllTrails highlighted Point Lobos State Natural Reserve in Monterey County, which is approximately three hours from Fresno by car, as one of the best trails in California.

“The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime,” AllTrails said.

According to the California State Parks website, the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is known as the “crown jewel” of the State Parks system.

Trails at the reserve offer ocean views and beach access, according to the state website.

Rubicon Trail

Travel+Leisure said some of the best views in California can be found along the Rubicon Trail in Lake Tahoe.

“Along the journey, hikers can skirt cliffs, dip into coves, cool down at waterfalls and admire the profusion of wildflowers, all scented by Sierra juniper, cedar, ponderosa pine, and fir trees,” the publication said.

The trail is about a two-hour drive from Sacramento, according to Google Maps.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Tripadvisor and AllTrails ranked Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in La Jolla among California’s top hiking destinations.

According to the reserve’s website, the trails at the reserve offer panoramic views, beach access and scenic coastal shrubbery.

The reserve offers trails ranging from half a mile to 4 miles in length.

“This is a very popular area for hiking and walking, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring,” AllTrails said on its site.

Yosemite National Park

Right off of Highway 140, Yosemite National Park offers guests several stunning trails to explore, AllTrails said.