I’ve lived in quite a lot of cities in California, together with Los Angeles, San Diego, Santa Barbara, and San Francisco, and have been lucky sufficient to journey all around the state. From the ocean views and inexperienced, rolling hills of Large Sur to the arid, otherworldly terrain of Loss of life Valley Nationwide Park, I by no means ran out of locations that I wished to see and discover.
One of many coolest issues about California – not less than I feel so – is that there are such a lot of completely different ecosystems. California is residence to seashores and rugged shoreline, 14,000-foot peaks, sandy deserts, and dense forests (to not point out 9 Nationwide Parks). I could possibly be having fun with an alpine lake within the morning and listening to the waves crash onshore within the afternoon. There aren’t many locations on this planet with that a lot variety with regards to out of doors recreation.
However with a lot to supply, how do you select the place to go and what to see? On this submit, I share my favourite locations to go to in California for individuals who need to get exterior and discover the Golden State. Want extra concepts? You possibly can take a look at all of my California journey blogs right here.
This submit could comprise affiliate hyperlinks.
Northern California
Northern California is thought for its dramatic coastlines, Redwood forests, and geothermal exercise, and being so removed from main cities, it sees fewer guests than different elements of the state.
1. Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore
Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore is situated on the northern California Coast lower than 2 hours from San Francisco. It’s among the best locations within the state to view coastal wildlife like elephant seals, tule elk, tons of chicken species, and even whales. Peak gray whale season is January by means of April, and after I visited, I noticed a number of blows off-shore.
The landscapes at Level Reyes are simply as worthwhile. There are rugged cliffs, lengthy sandy seashores, rolling grasslands, and plush forests crisscrossed with mountain climbing trails. Lots of people don’t notice that California has such undeveloped locations like this!
Listed here are some enjoyable issues to do in Level Reyes:
Van and automotive tenting close to Level Reyes is fairly restricted sadly, so that you if you’re hoping to camp along with your automobile, it’s best to have an thought beforehand of the place you intend to remain. We didn’t plan forward and had a troublesome time discovering anyplace to park in a single day.
2. Humboldt Redwoods State Park
A visit to California wouldn’t be full with out spending time among the many majestic Redwood timber. There are a number of locations alongside the northern California coast the place you’ll be able to view old-growth redwood forests, however my favourite is Humboldt Redwoods State Park.
The 31-mile drive alongside the Avenue of the Giants is spectacular and there are tons of quiet mountain climbing trails the place you’ll be able to stand up shut to those giants. I additionally advocate packing a swimsuit and taking a drip within the brisk Eel River. If you wish to spend the evening, Humboldt has an awesome campground underneath the cover of the Redwoods (reservations extremely advisable!).
Wish to see extra redwoods?
Humboldt Redwoods State Park isn’t the one place you’ll be able to see the redwoods. Another locations price visiting are Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Elk Prairie, and Redwood Nationwide Park.
3. Lassen Volcanic Nationwide Park
Wealthy in hydrothermal websites together with roaring fumaroles (steam and volcanic-gas vents), effervescent mud pots, boiling swimming pools, and steaming floor, you’ll be able to stand up near volcanism in motion in Lassen Nationwide Park.
Two locations to not miss within the Park are Bumpass Hell and Sulphur Works. When you’ve visited the hydrothermal websites, Lassen Volcanic Nationwide Park can be residence to quite a lot of coldwater lakes for swimming or paddleboarding, many trails for day mountain climbing, and alternatives for backpacking.
For one of the best view within the Park, you’ll be able to hike to the highest of Lassen Peak. Sadly after I was in Lassen, a wildfire broke out and the sky was very smoky the day we deliberate to hike this path, so we skipped it. However it’s on my checklist for subsequent time.
You probably have additional time, we took a day journey to Burney Falls and located it to be properly well worth the brief drive.
4. Lava Beds Nationwide Monument
Situated in northern California close to the Oregon state line, Lava Beds Nationwide Monument has greater than 800 caves, a number of Native American rock artwork depictions, historic battlefields, and volcanic landscapes. It’s one of the vital distinctive place to go to in California.
I extremely advocate testing the quite a few caves and lava tubes all through the park. These had been shaped 1000’s of years in the past as lava flowed from Drugs Lake Volcano and cooled all through the encircling plains. Ensure to put on a headlamp and closed-toe footwear in case you plan to discover the tubes!
5. Mount Shasta & Lake Shasta
Mount Shasta is a year-round vacation spot for out of doors journey. In winter, the slopes of the stratovolcano provide snowboarding and in the summertime, there are countless alternatives for mountain climbing and biking.
Whereas I haven’t performed it myself, mountain climbing to the Mount Shasta Summit is a bucketlist expertise. There are a few non-technical, however very difficult routes to the summit or you’ll be able to rent a neighborhood information and sort out one of many mountaineering routes that cross Mount Shasta’s glaciers.
Close to the bottom of the Mount Shasta, Lake Shasta can be an awesome place to hang around. They’ve some good campgrounds across the lake that you need to use as a base camp to discover the realm.
Save this submit!
Enter your e-mail & I will ship this submit to your inbox! You may additionally obtain my weekly e-newsletter stuffed with useful recommendation for planning your adventures.
Central California
Central California is legendary for its numerous marine life, lush coastal bluffs, cute coastal cities, and spectacular mountain climbing trails.
6. Large Sur
Your entire drive alongside the Pacific Shoreline on iconic Freeway 1 is unimaginable, however my favourite place to discover is Large Sur. This stretch of highway options dramatic ocean views, towering cliffs, tons of mountain climbing trails, lovely seashores, and Redwood forests.
Listed here are a couple of of my favourite locations in Large Sur:
For extra concepts on easy methods to spend your time in Large Sur, take a look at my Large Sur Journey Information.
7. Yosemite Nationwide Park
After all, you’d anticipate Yosemite Nationwide Park to be on the checklist of one of the best locations to go to in California, particularly for out of doors fans! I’ve been fortunate to discover a lot of Yosemite on foot when mountain climbing the John Muir Path, in addition to on many day hikes within the Park.
Yosemite has soooo many trails, alpine lakes, gushing waterfalls, and world-class mountain climbing. You may simply spend two weeks right here and never see all of it.
Half Dome is probably the most iconic path within the Park, nevertheless it now requires a allow. In case you can’t get one, I counsel you hike to Clouds Relaxation as a substitute. It presents the identical sweeping views of Yosemite, and it’s not fairly as busy in my expertise.
For a multi-day backpacking journey, I beloved the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne. It’s a point-to-point path that takes 3-4 days and hugs the Tuolumne River nearly your entire approach. There are waterfalls, swimming holes, and enjoyable riverside tenting. It additionally requires a allow, which cuts down on the crowds.
For extra suggestions, take a look at my guides on the Greatest Hikes in Yosemite and Greatest Issues to do in Yosemite.
8. Monterey
Monterey is a small seaside city on Freeway 1 on the central coast of California. My first time visiting Monterey was again in 2002 whereas taking a SCUBA diving course, and I additionally visited its world-famous aquarium, the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
I’m at all times a bit cautious of visiting aquariums (and zoos), however the Monterey Bay Aquarium is world-renowned for its work on marine analysis, sustainability, and conservation efforts. I extremely advocate spending a day there! You possibly can see marine life up shut as you study in regards to the aquarium’s present work and packages.
There’s lots to do in Monterey exterior of the aquarium, too.
9. Pinnacles Nationwide Park
Pinnacles is without doubt one of the latest and smallest Nationwide Parks. I haven’t had an opportunity to go to right here but, however the phrase from the Bearfoot Concept staff is that it has nice mountain climbing, lovely views, numerous tenting, and wildlife.
Pinnacles is without doubt one of the few locations in California the place you’ll be able to see California condors within the wild. In case you’re a climber, Pinnacles Nationwide Park can be residence to world-class climbing routes. There are boulders and rock faces unfold all through the park.
The most effective time to go to is in Spring when it’s not too sizzling and every part is inexperienced.
10. Sequoia and Kings Canyon Nationwide Parks
Situated within the southern Japanese Sierra Nevada mountain vary, Sequoia and Kings Canyon Nationwide Parks are two separate parks, however they’re situated proper subsequent to one another, so most individuals go to them in a single journey.
These Parks provide my favourite mountain climbing in all of California and perhaps the nation! Whereas each parks collectively make up a whopping 865,964 acres, over 90% of that land is designated wilderness with no roads or automobile entry. For that cause, these Parks are finest explored on a multi-day backpacking journey.
In case you’re up for a giant journey, I did a 6-day Mineral King Loop backpacking journey in Sequoia that was epic past proportions. Secluded lakes, large mountain vistas, and a lot solitude. I extremely advocate this path!
If backpacking isn’t your factor, there are some day hikes price doing. You’ll additionally need to cease on the Common Sherman Tree. This sequoia tree is the biggest tree on this planet by quantity and it’s fairly a formidable sight! You may as well go to Redwood Canyon in Kings Canyon Nationwide Park, which is residence to the biggest remaining grove of Redwoods on the planet.
Southern California
Southern California has a few of the finest seashores within the nation, together with desert landscapes and spring blooms.
11. Loss of life Valley Nationwide Park
Loss of life Valley Nationwide Park is without doubt one of the most unusual and otherworldly locations I’ve ever visited. The panorama right here makes you are feeling such as you’ve in some way landed on Mars.
It’s a land of contrasts: you’ll be able to go to the bottom level in North America, Badwater Basin whereas being only a brief distance from the very best level within the decrease 48, Mt. Whitney. For many of the 12 months, Loss of life Valley seems to be a barren wasteland, however for a couple of weeks within the spring, it involves life with a surprising array of wildflowers.
The hidden oasis – Darwin Falls – is tucked amongst sand dunes and badlands, and is a should! Then sundown at Artists Palette is an excellent option to cap off the day.
You’ll need to spend not less than a day or two in Loss of life Valley, so remember to comply with our 3-Day Loss of life Valley Nationwide Park Itinerary to hit all one of the best spots!
12. Joshua Tree Nationwide Park
Well-known for its distinctive desert panorama strewn with large boulders and Dr. Suess-like Joshua Bushes, this place is a should for anybody visiting southern California.
Although Joshua Tree it’s a comparatively small Nationwide Park, there may be nonetheless a lot to see and do.
Joshua Tree can get busy, although, so remember to ebook your campsite forward of time.
13. Channel Islands Nationwide Park
I went to grad faculty in Santa Barbara with the Channel Islands proper offshore. I’ve camped, hiked, kayaked, and SCUBA dove there, and it’s one of the vital distinctive locations within the US.
Channel Islands Nationwide Park consists of 5 completely different islands, every with its personal distinctive geography and landscapes. Every island can be a haven for chicken and marine life, a few of that are endemic, which means they’re discovered nowhere else on the planet.
In your first go to, I counsel taking the boat out and spending a day or two on Santa Cruz Island. It’s the largest of the 5, has probably the most frequent ferries, and a giant campground only a brief stroll from the seashore.
The snorkeling proper off the seashore is improbable. I noticed a number of sea lions and a harbor seal swimming within the kelp beds final time I used to be there. When you’re on the market, you may as well take a guided kayaking tour of the shoreline and sea caves.
Be taught extra about easy methods to plan your go to in my Channel Islands information.
14. Catalina Island
Catalina Island is off the coast of Lengthy Seashore, California and presents a really completely different expertise than Channel Islands Nationwide Park. In contrast to the Nationwide Park that’s uninhabited with no providers, individuals reside on Catalina Island the place you’ll discover eating places, accommodations, and loads of issues to do.
One among my all-time favourite backpacking journeys is the Trans-Catalina Path which traverses your entire island. This 3-4 day journey presents completely gorgeous beachfront tenting and superior views your entire approach. If mountain climbing isn’t your factor, you may as well bike nearly your entire size of the island.
After all, the true draw of Catalina for a lot of guests is the ocean. You possibly can SCUBA dive or snorkel by means of a few of California’s most lovely kelp forests encountering the brilliant orange garibaldi, California’s state fish. There’s additionally boat-in tenting, crusing excursions, and kayaking excursions.
15. Ojai
Whereas I choose to get out in nature for hikes and bike rides after I journey, I do like to go to cute cities, too. Ojai is one in every of my favourite little cities in California. Situated within the lush hills above Ventura, it’s barely touristy, however the boutiques, eating places, and outlets that line the principle road are enjoyable to go to and discover.
I like to recommend bringing your bike (or renting one) and pedaling the Ojai Valley Path. I’ve ridden all of it the best way to Ventura (30 miles roundtrip), however you’ll be able to take it so far as you need earlier than turning round. There are additionally tons of nice mountain climbing trails in Valley View Protect only a few miles exterior of city or hike one in every of my favorites, Gridley Path.
For extra issues to do and see in Ojai, take a look at day 3 of my Central California Coast Street Journey Itinerary that additionally takes you to Ventura, Santa Barbara and as much as Morro Bay.
California’s Japanese Sierra
Residence to the decrease 48’s tallest peaks, Lake Tahoe, sizzling springs, and 4,000 12 months previous timber, California’s Japanese Sierra is a hiker’s paradise.
16. Lake Tahoe
I’ve been to Lake Tahoe quite a lot of instances and it’s simply as picturesque as it’s in photographs. It’s additionally a year-round vacation spot with nice snowboarding within the winter and mountain climbing, biking, and watersports in the summertime.
Whereas the shores of Lake Tahoe do get busy in the course of the hotter months, it’s nonetheless price testing with numerous enjoyable issues to do across the Lake. I like to recommend visiting in early June or September to keep away from peak summer time crowds.
For mountain climbing, I particularly love mountain climbing to the highest of Mount Tallac, and the attractive Lake Aloha Path is simply up the highway too. Or for a chill day on the water, there are tons of seashores throughout the Lake. Simply be ready to pay an entry charge for many of the seashores as they’re managed by California State Parks.
BFT Contributor Becky Timbers who’s an avid mountain biker says you’ll be able to’t miss the epic 24-mile Tahoe Rim & Flume Path.
17. Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth is without doubt one of the most lovely locations in California! Suppose tall, jagged mountains, alpine lakes, superb mountain climbing, sizzling springs, and a cool ski city with good eating places.
BFT Contributor Becky lived in Mammoth for a few years and completely loves the Mammoth Mountain Bike Park. You possibly can take the scenic gondola to benefit from the unimaginable views out over the Minarets and the bottom of Yosemite Valley.
On the east aspect of Freeway 395 only a brief drive from city, you’ll additionally discover quite a lot of simply accessible sizzling springs. Wild Willy’s and Hilltop Sizzling Springs (each on Google maps) are nice locations to soak your muscle tissue after a day of journey. There’s numerous dispersed tenting not removed from the springs too!
18. Mono Lake
Mono Lake is situated on a distant stretch of Route 395 between Mammoth Lakes and Lake Tahoe. It’s an historical saline lake that was shaped 1000’s of years in the past. It has no outlet, so the one approach water escapes is thru evaporation, which has led to excessive concentrations of salts and minerals. Because of this, Mono Lake is extremely alkaline, which has led to the formation of ‘tufa towers’ – limestone formations that stand up out of the water.
There’s a very nice Vistors Middle with nice views over the lake and surrounding mountains. You may as well stroll all the way down to the lake shore to see the tufas up shut and look ahead to birdlife.
Observe: There are only a few facilities and lodging round Mono Lake, so do your analysis and plan forward earlier than setting out.
19. Historic Bristlecone Forest
The Historic Bristlecone Forest is residence to a few of the oldest timber on this planet. This particular place is situated within the White Mountains above Bishop, California, and may solely be accessed (simply) in the summertime.
A number of the Bristlecones listed below are 4000+ years previous and so they look it – their twisted and gnarled trunks and limbs have been formed by years of harsh wind, rain, and snow.
I like to recommend beginning your go to on the Schulman Grove Customer Middle the place you’ll be able to study extra about these superb timber. Then, hike one (or each) of the loops to see the Bristlecones up shut. You’ll be mountain climbing above 10,000 toes, although, so remember to convey solar safety and plenty of water and tempo your self. In case you’ve by no means been that top, learn my tips about avoiding altitude illness.
You may as well go to Patriarch Grove, which is 13 miles north of Schulman Grove by way of a tough dust highway. It’s price visiting you probably have the proper automobile to see the Patriarch Tree, the biggest bristlecone on this planet!
Tip: Be sure to have a superb quantity of fuel in your tank earlier than heading as much as the Bristlecones. The highway is steep, winding, and lengthy and there aren’t any providers up there.
20. Alabama Hills
Alabama Hills is a well-liked place to go to in California amongst van lifers, automotive campers, and rock climbers. This hidden gem is located on the base of the Sierra Nevada mountain vary and is residence to a few of the most unusual and delightful landscapes in California (for my part).
The realm is characterised by large boulder fields with 14,000-foot peaks because the backdrop. It’s a tremendous place for tenting, bouldering, and images. There are a couple of mountain climbing trails, however the Alabama Hills are largely only a place to calm down and benefit from the magnificence.
It’s additionally a handy place to base your self earlier than or after a backpacking journey within the Japanese Sierra. I camped right here earlier than mountain climbing to Dusy Basin and had a stunning evening underneath the celebrities.
Situated simply exterior of Lone Pine on Freeway 395, Alambama Hills additionally places you in shut proximity to Mt. Whitney, the very best peak within the decrease 48 states at 14,505 toes. You possibly can drive up Whitney Portal Street to the trailhead at 8,360 toes, however if you wish to hike it, you’ll want a mountain climbing allow.
Enjoyable truth: I summited Mt. Whitney on the final day of my John Muir Path thru-hike and now have a tattoo of Mt. Whitney on my arm.
Steadily Requested Questions
California is a year-round vacation spot and any out of doors lover can discover journey it doesn’t matter what time of 12 months you go to. It actually relies on the place you need to go and what you need to see and do.
Personally, I like spring and fall in California as a result of the temperatures are cooler and the paths are sometimes lined with spring wildflowers or altering fall foliage.
You probably have 2+ weeks, you’ll be able to cowl a number of floor in California. However you probably have lower than that, I like to recommend sticking to only one or two areas of the state so you’ll be able to actually maximize your time at every vacation spot.
Sadly, sure. Wildfires have turn into more and more prevalent in California in the course of the summer time months. Whereas imminent hazard from wildfires is uncommon, your journey (and well being) may be impacted by smoke and air high quality. Examine the CalFire web site earlier than your journey to see if and the place wildfires are burning.
Extra California Adventures
Save this submit to Pinterest
What are one of the best locations to go to in California in your opinion? Which of them are in your bucket checklist? Let me know within the feedback beneath!
