California is the ultimate choose-your-own-adventure state. Want to surf in the morning and hike through alpine forests by afternoon? You can do that here.
From towering redwoods and snow-capped Sierras to desert landscapes and dramatic coastlines, the Golden State is bursting with outdoor experiences for every kind of explorer.
Whether you’re a California local or planning your first big West Coast road trip, these guides will help you discover the best outdoor adventures this iconic state has to offer.
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15 Easy Hikes in Yosemite National Park
Several of the best views in Yosemite National Park can be accessed by short and sweet hiking trails. We put together this guide with the best easy hikes in Yosemite to help you get the most bang for your buck during your visit.
21 Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park
Tackling the best hikes in Yosemite National Park is really the only way to get even a small sense of its grandeur. We put together this list of Yosemite hikes so you can maximize your time among the park’s granite monoliths, waterfalls, lakes, and towering sequoias.
Heart Lake Trail: California Hiking Guide
The short and easily accessible Heart Lake Trail leads to one of the best views of Mount Shasta, the tallest mountain in the Lower 48. We put this detailed trail guide together so you know exactly what to expect as you plan your hike.
Murray Canyon Trail to Seven Falls: Palm Springs Hiking Guide
The Murray Canyon Trail takes you through a truly unique part of Indian Canyons. On this fairly easy-going hike, you’ll trek across open desert, gawk up at huge palms in a lush oasis, and end at a waterfall. Our trail guide will help you plan this unforgettable Palm Springs hike!
15 Best Palm Springs Hikes for Your Bucket List
From leisurely nature walks to challenging treks through unforgiving desert, Palm Springs hikes genuinely have a bit of everything. Best of all, most of them are minutes from downtown! In this guide, we detail the best hikes in Palm Springs with plenty of local tips.
Indian Canyons: Palm Springs Hiking Guide
Going on an Indian Canyons hike means exploring the world’s biggest natural palm oasis and cool mountain-fed streams, all tucked away in rugged canyons. In this guide, we detail the best Indian Canyons trails to experience the desert magic and diversity of Palm Springs.
Tahquitz Canyon Waterfall Hike: Palm Springs Trail Guide
Just minutes from downtown Palm Springs, it’s no surprise that Tahquitz Canyon and its beautiful waterfall are wildly popular with hikers year-round. We put this trail guide together with everything you need to know about the Tahquitz Canyon waterfall (and swimming hole!).
15 Best Hikes at Joshua Tree National Park, California
Joshua Tree National Park is a renowned climbing and astronomy destination, but it’s also home to some fantastic hiking trails. With features including slot canyons, long-abandoned mines, and boulders you can scramble, the best hikes in Joshua Tree are unique and memorable.