We have listed 10 Thrilling Hiking Trails in California
Iron Mountain Trail
Located near Poway in the city of San Diego, Iron Mountain Trail is arguably the most famous hiking spot, only second to Cowles Mountain Trail. The trail tend to start from Iron Mountain Trailhead located right along the National Highway 67. The entire 5 kilometre stretch of trail is enclosed with rocky ridgelines that houses 300 species of innocuous and wild flowers, providing scenic view of the landscape. One of the prominent species includes penstemon and red rock penstemon and while during winter one can also witness unique colorful snow flora. The peak of the mountain is situated at 1,276 feet elevation which usually take around 2 hours to reach. However, once reached you can laid back on the comfortable picnic tables and infact look around the panoramic view of the ranges and near by small Ramona town. Additionally, the hikers is also allowed to bring their pets along to the hiking trail but obviously with leach on their neck.
Terrain : Hard
Lost Coast Trail
This remotely located region off the shoreline of California is one of the longest hiking trail in the entire US. The complete trail is about 40 kilometres in total that extends to 4 days to reach to the soaring 4,000 feet which is justified when you see the stunning view of the Pacific Ocean. The hiking starts from Mattole Beach in the North and stretches all the way to Black Sands Beach in the south. Lost Coast Trail holds diverse terrains from rigid to soft coarse black sand and slippery small rocks along the pebbly beaches. And all this is well complimented with vibrant wildlife and flora dispersed across the area.
Terrain : Moderate
Lands End Trail
One of the Premier weekend spots among the People of San Francisco, Lands End Trail is wild and windy trail with stunning views of the Great Golden gate bridge and the Marin Headlands. This 6 kilometres long hiking trail features several beautiful wild flowers, nest of local birds and soothing coastal terrain, along with fresh gushing wind from the Pacific. The land is primary go to destinations among early risers, bicyclists and beachcombers. Not to Mention, the place also comprises of historical Sutro Baths Ruins from 1896, which was built with the aim to train individuals to stroll on the sand dunes, enjoying swimming and exploring museum as well as eating in the restaurants. Today this Adolph built wonder is considered as the biggest indoor natatorium of its kind in the World.
Terrain : Moderate
Rubicon Trail
Located in between Lake Tahoe and on the right side of National Highway 89 is Rubicon Trailhead.
Formerly, this 35 kilometres long Rubicon Trail in the Sierra Nevada was initially built by the invading Europeans who used it as a passage through the wildness. The area is extensively famous among novice and experienced off roaders trying their modified cars out in the terrain. The hike to the peak is one of the prettiest with many eagles and Emerald Bay view points along the way, and passing through these points take around 4 hours. With that being said, the entry to the summit isn't free and would cost 10 dollars in total.
Terrain : Moderate
Sea Lion Point Trail
Stationed on the western side of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Sea Lion Point Trail is part of 280 signature state parks. This 8 kilometre trail is arguably easy and only take 4 hours to reach the peak, fair to say this terrain is pretty much family friendly with less inconvenience. Interestingly, the name Point Lobos is derived from Spanish word "Punta de los Lobos Marinos" which means "Point of the Sea Wolves", describing the ever history of sea lions barking by sitting on the land and offshore rocks, only to help the Spanish explorers by alerting them of sea rocks in the fog. Besides the remarkable Sea Lions, one might also witness the rich amount of dolphins, otters and ferocious whales. Furthermore, if you want to explore the ocean in depth, head on for the famous scuba diving activity.
Terrain : Easy
Boy Scout Tree Trail
Situated within the boundaries of Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park, the trail is heaven for the nature enthusiasts with spectacular tall old trees covering the entire 10,500 acres of region. Climbing this eerily silent 5 kilometre length of trail passing through the giant trees at leisure pace take approximately around 3 hours. At the top, Boy Scout Tree Trail is literally beautiful with cool mist atmosphere, which indeed feels as if it is made for photographers. whereas, at the base camp or close to the starting point the trail could be contesting as one need to go pass the intense muddy patch of land. So, it is advisable to atleast carry good quality hiking boots to avoid any inconvenience. Furthermore, there is also decent small waterfall known as Fern Falls, best to witness during Rainy Season.
Terrain : Moderate
Mount Whitney Trail
Mount Whitney Trail is 35 kilometre long trail, biggest after Lost Coast Trail. Starting from the Whitney Portal in the west of the town of Lone Pine, the trail go straight up to elevation of 6,100 feet to rewarding summit of divine scenery. This well maintained entire hiking trail take allegedly 4 days to climb starting from Whitney Portal. The mount Whitney trailhead is easily accessible from the nearest National Highway 395 in Lone Pine, California. Additionally, also keep check on your belongings and foods as there are multiple sightings of bear at the trailhead.
Terrain : Hard
Yosemite Falls Trail
Reckoned as One of the Yosemite's oldest historic trails, the place is no less than wonder offered by the nature. The elevation to the top steep to striking 2400 feet, wherein the terrain across the trail is sandy and rocky. One of the major attractions around the trail is its exciting waterfalls, half dome, towering granite monoliths, deep valleys and ancient giant sequoias. Among the mentioned attractions, the half dome and soothing Yosemite waterfall is easily visible from Columbia Rock that sits at the top of the peak. As the matter of fact, Yosemite Falls is actually the highest waterfall in the entire Yosemite National Park. With that being said, there is also belief among native people of Yosemite Valley that the plunge pool at its base is home to spirits of several witches, known as the Poloti.
Terrain : Hard
Murray Canyon Trail
This moderately difficult 6 kilometre long Murray Canyon trail is one of the most famous hiking trails that starts from the open desert and winds up into the magnificent hills running parallel by the cool gushing banks of stream shaded by palm trees. What makes it more appealing is the small cave with a waterfall inside at the end of the trail. The entry fee is reasonably affordable for both adults and children. If you hiking or strolling with someone who doesn't want to do the same and instead admire
the serene beauty of the Murray Canyon Trail, then you can also opt for horses.
Terrain : Moderate
Mount Shasta Trail
Otherwise known for menacing Cascade Range volcanoes, Mount Shasta is basically small town which is named after its significant volcano Mountain. Infact considering the size it boasts, the entire mountain is visible from as far as Central Valley in the south. The height of the mountain stands at massive 10000 feet comprising of rocky outcrops and tall trees covered with soft snow. Starting from the Horse Camp, the 10 kilometre trek take almost six hours to reach to the summit of Mount Shasta. There is also belief among local spiritual leaders that it is home to sacred spring and ancient foes of Atlantis. After the last volcanic eruption in 1786, the study suggest Mount Shasta is not due to erupt large volume of pumiceous ash and lava again in the near future. So, it is pretty safe to say, you can irrefutably plan your next trip to this amazing hiking spot in California.
Terrain : Hard
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