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Best mountain views hikes in California
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Best mountain views hikes in California

Why hike on flat land when you can conquer peaks? These hikes come with brag-worthy mountain views.

Here are some great hikes to explore in California.

Most popular hikes

1

Difficult

Pacific Crest Trail

San Diego County, California · star 4.8 (14) · 4136.0 km · Est. 184 days

2

Easy

Hess Mine, Steelhead Lake and Greenstone Lake via Saddlebag Lake Trail

Mono County, California · star 4.0 (1) · 11.5 km · Est. 2 hrs 42 min

3

Extra Difficult

Potrero Canyon Trail

Santa Barbara County, California · star 4.5 (2) · 14.5 km · Est. 4 hrs 12 min

4

Difficult

Golden Stairs Trail

Tuolumne County, California · star 4.0 (2) · 7.0 km · Est. 2 hrs 23 min

5

Extra Difficult

Pacific Crest Trail - California

San Diego County, California · star 5.0 (3) · 2624.1 km · Est. 103 days

6

Difficult

Backbone Ridge Trail

Trinity County, California · star 4.0 (1) · 9.8 km · Est. 3 hrs 6 min

7

Easy

Lower Lola Montez Lake Trail

Nevada County, California · star N/A (0) · 10.2 km · Est. 2 hrs 32 min

8

Medium

Root Creek Trail

Shasta County, California · star 5.0 (3) · 4.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 26 min

9

Medium

Long Lakes Trail

Mono County, California · star 5.0 (2) · 33.1 km · Est. 2 days

10

Medium

Tahoe Rim Trail

Placer County, California · star 4.3 (8) · 263.8 km · Est. 11 days

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Reviews for mountain views hikes in California

Aurélien Morvant avatar

Pacific Crest Trail

TeddyBear · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

The most beautiful one Into the wild for months

Vance Gottlieb avatar

Hess Mine, Steelhead Lake and Greenstone Lake via Saddlebag Lake Trail

SunriseRavinewalker85 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Lindsey Smith Esq. avatar

Potrero Canyon Trail

CampFjordfinder59 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Louis Block avatar

Golden Stairs Trail

HollowTrailmaster31 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

benedikt hein avatar

Pacific Crest Trail - California

benedikt hein · reviewed almost 6 years ago

star star star star star

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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