Top Long Hikes in California: From Emerald Trails to Majestic Peaks

California is a state that boasts an incredible variety of terrain, from spectacular mountains to dramatic coasts. For hikers and outdoors enthusiasts, the state offers a plethora of jaw-dropping trails that promise breathtaking vistas and unforgettable experiences. Here’s a guide to some of the best long hikes in California, from serene waterfalls to rugged peaks.

Emerald Bay and Beyond

California is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, and nowhere is this more evident than in its hiking trails. If you're looking for a rewarding trip, you might start at Whiskeytown Falls in Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, located just 45 minutes outside of Redding. This short 3-mile hike offers a mix of stunning views and challenging terrain, culminating in a magnificent waterfall. The greens and browns of the surrounding area create a breathtaking backdrop that makes this one of the favorite waterfalls for many hikers.

Another great starting point is the Eagle Lake trail, which begins right across from the Emerald Bay State Park. The trail ascends sharply, climbing to well-worn rock stairs and eventually leading to Eagle Falls. From there, the climb continues for a mile and a half, with the highlight being a stunning view of Eagle Lake. The west side of the lake offers one of the best panoramic views in the state, and if this doesn’t inspire you to head out on the trail, then nothing will.

Nature-Inspired Hikes

The Mist Trail, located along the Yosemite Valley, offers a fantastic experience both in terms of scenery and length. You can enjoy the beauty of Vernal Falls in just 3 miles, or push yourself a bit more to reach the imposing Nevada Falls in about 7 miles. This trail is known for its iconic mist, which can make your hike a truly unforgettable experience.

Spectacular Day Hikes

California has numerous spectacular day hikes, many of which can be found in its national parks, such as Yosemite, Kings Canyon, Sequoia, Lassen, Death Valley, and Joshua Tree. You can opt for a 20-mile trek through Yosemite, with options like the Clouds Rest hike, the Panorama trail, or Cathedral Lakes. For those who prefer a 50-mile journey, the Lost Coast Trail offers 24 miles of some of the least populated coastline in the state, making for a truly unique adventure.

Mountain-High Challenges

For hikers seeking a more demanding journey, there are trails like the Lost Coast Trail, which spans 30 miles roundtrip, offering a mix of climbing and hiking. Another option is the 30-mile Arrow Lake and Arrow Peak circuit, which includes summiting two peaks and features stunning mountain vistas. The Rae Lakes Loop in Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks is about 40 miles and promises breathtaking wilderness.

Exploring Remote Mountains

The peaks in the Trinity Alps are a must-experience for their breathtaking landscapes. From shorter day hikes to longer traverses, there’s something for every level of hiker. There’s also the Shorty’s Well to Telescope Peak hike, which takes you through the challenging and beautiful landscapes of Death Valley National Park. The John Muir Trail, which connects Yosemite to Mt. Whitney, is another classic, spanning over 220 miles of the most scenic trekking in the United States.

Significant Summits

In the world of hiking, California stands out not only for its diversity but also for its significant mountain summits. Mount Shasta and Mount Whitney, the highest point in the lower 48 states, offer some of the most challenging hikes in the state. With 15 peaks above 14,000 feet, California has the third most fourteeners after Alaska and Colorado. Each offers unique experiences, with Mount Whitney and Mount Shasta being particularly notable for their sheer size and beauty.

For hikers looking to explore California’s long-distance trails, there are options like the Pacific Crest Trail, with parts of it traversing through the state. Additionally, you can find more information on long-distance trails by referring to the list of long-distance trails in the United States.