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Best hot springs hikes in California
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Best hot springs hikes in California

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in California.

Most popular hikes

1

Difficult

Pine Ridge and Big Sur Loop Trail

Monterey County, California · star N/A (0) · 53.5 km · Est. 3 days

2

Easy

Mermaid Lake via Florence Lake Trail

Fresno County, California · star 5.0 (3) · 26.9 km · Est. 6 hrs 46 min

3

Difficult

Trespass and Gaviota Peak Loop Trail

Santa Barbara County, California · star 5.0 (1) · 9.9 km · Est. 3 hrs 4 min

4

Difficult

Kern River

Kern County, California · star 4.0 (1) · 780 m · Est. 16 min

5

Medium

Vichy Springs Resort Trail

Mendocino County, California · star N/A (0) · 2.7 km · Est. 40 min

6

Difficult

Cold - Hot Springs Loop Trail

Santa Barbara County, California · star 4.6 (8) · 5.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 43 min

7

Difficult

Gaviota Peak Trail

Santa Barbara County, California · star 4.0 (2) · 9.9 km · Est. 3 hrs 6 min

8

Medium

Jordan Hot Springs via Black Rock to Kern River Trail

Tulare County, California · star 4.6 (5) · 16.7 km · Est. 4 hrs 38 min

9

Medium

Barber Peak and East Fork Carson River

Alpine County, California · star 5.0 (1) · 16.2 km · Est. 4 hrs 43 min

10

Easy

Mono Hot Springs and South Fork San Joaquin River

Fresno County, California · star 4.0 (3) · 1.4 km · Est. 20 min

SHOW MORE HIKES

Reviews for hot springs hikes in California

No reviews available for Pine Ridge and Big Sur Loop Trail.

Carmon Christiansen DC avatar

Mermaid Lake via Florence Lake Trail

TrailmatePathfinder25 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Maxence BURDEAU avatar

Trespass and Gaviota Peak Loop Trail

max_ur_trek · reviewed 5 days ago

star star star star star

À bit stip for the beginners I think but for more experienced people, 2h/2:30 is more accurate

Anastasia Kub avatar

Kern River

BaseNomad16 · reviewed almost 3 years ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Vichy Springs Resort Trail.

Frequently asked questions for hikes in California

What is the climate like for hiking in California?

California's vast geography results in diverse climates. Coastal regions, with their mild, Mediterranean climate, offer year-round hiking opportunities, though winter rains may muddy trails. In contrast, the inland valleys and desert regions are best hiked from October to April, as summer temperatures can be prohibitive.
The Sierra Nevada, famous for its mountains and forests, is popular in summer and fall. However, winter brings heavy snowfall, making trails inaccessible. Meanwhile, the pleasant climate of Southern California allows for hiking throughout the year, with cooler, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
To summarize, California's diverse climate offers year-round hiking opportunities, varying by region. Visit www.parks.ca.gov for more detailed information about specific trails and their recommended seasons.

Do I need a permit to hike in California?

Permits for hiking in California, particularly in wilderness areas or for overnight trips, are often required. Managed by the National Park Service, Forest Service, or Bureau of Land Management, permit processes vary. For more information, visit respective agency websites or www.recreation.gov for federal lands.

Is wild camping allowed in California?

Wild camping in California is generally permitted in national forests and Bureau of Land Management lands. However, restrictions apply, such as the requirement of a campfire permit. Always follow "Leave No Trace" principles. Detailed regulations can be found on agency websites like www.fs.usda.gov

Are there mountain rescue services in California?

In case of a hiking emergency in California, dial 911. Also, the California Office of Emergency Services coordinates search and rescue. The Mountain Rescue Association (MRA) has several units in California, with information available at www.mra.org. Always plan ahead and hike safely.

Are there dangerous plants in California?

California's flora varies widely, from coastal scrub and redwood forests to desert plants and alpine flora in the Sierra Nevada. This diversity can affect hiking experiences and trail conditions. For detailed information on California's flora, visit the California Native Plant Society website: www.cnps.org

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in California?

California's diverse habitats host a wide range of wildlife, from harmless squirrels to larger mammals like black bears. Ticks and mosquitoes may pose minor nuisances to hikers. Be aware of potential encounters, particularly with venomous snakes in desert areas. For more, visit https://wildlife.ca.gov/

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