7 Best Hiking Cities in California

California is a hiker’s paradise, offering some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the country. From coastal cliffs to desert canyons, these seven cities are home to the best hiking trails in the state.

1. Sacramento

Sacramento is surrounded by picturesque trails and the scenic American River. The Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail heads northeast along the American River Parkway to Folsom Lake. Nearby, Auburn State Recreation Area and Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park provide excellent day-long hiking opportunities.

Further east, the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Tahoe and Eldorado National Forests offer even more trails, including some with stunning waterfalls.

• Population: 530,334
• Top-rated trails: American River Bike Trail, Levee Path Loop, River Bend Park Riverside Loop
• Scenic areas: Hidden Falls Regional Park, Effie Yeaw Nature Center, American River Parkway

2. Palm Springs

Palm Springs boasts a variety of hiking experiences, from desert landscapes to alpine wilderness. Key spots include Mount San Jacinto State Park and the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation, which features Palm, Murray, and Andreas Canyons, as well as Tahquitz Canyon.

• Population: 45,822
• Top-rated trails: Tahquitz Canyon Loop, San Jacinto Peak, Murray Canyon Trail to Seven Falls
• Scenic areas: Joshua Tree National Park, Mount San Jacinto State Park, Indian Canyons

3. Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz offers trails through diverse habitats, from majestic redwood forests to stunning coastal cliffs. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is perfect for family-friendly walks among ancient trees, while Wilder Ranch State Park offers breathtaking coastal views.

• Population: 60,715
• Top-rated trails: Old Cove Landing Trail, West Cliff Drive, Fall Creek Loop
• Scenic areas: Big Basin Redwoods State Park, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Wilder Ranch State Park

4. Santa Barbara

Nestled between the sea and the Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara has some of the most scenic trails in California. Enjoy views of the city, ocean, and Channel Islands, along with coastal walks where you might spot harbor seals, dolphins, and even whales.

• Population: 86,390
• Top-rated trails: Hot Springs Canyon Trail, Inspiration Point, Cold Spring Loop
• Scenic areas: Inspiration Point, Gaviota Wind Caves, Rattlesnake Canyon

5. San Francisco

San Francisco’s hiking trails offer views of the city, the bay, the ocean, and two iconic bridges. Known for its steep hills, the city also has flat wilderness areas that provide a peaceful escape from urban life.

• Population: 746,481
• Top-rated trails: Lands End Trail, California Coastal Trail, Seal Rocks Beach
• Scenic areas: Lands End Trail, Muir Woods National Monument, Twin Peaks

6. Los Angeles

Los Angeles offers almost year-round sunshine, making it ideal for hiking. Popular trails include Eaton Canyon, Griffith Park, and Runyon Canyon Park. The hike to the Hollywood Sign is a must for stunning city views.

• Population: 3,748,640
• Top-rated trails: Hollywood Sign via Canyon Drive, Innsdale Trail and Mt Lee Drive, Glendale Peak via Riverside
• Scenic areas: Eaton Canyon, Griffith Park, Runyon Canyon Park

7. San Diego

San Diego’s mild climate is perfect for outdoor activities, including hiking. The city offers a range of trails from rugged terrain to peaceful beach walks. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a top spot for coastal hikes.

• Population: 1,375,452
• Top-rated trails: Fortuna Mountain Trail, Oak Canyon to Grasslands Trail, Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail
• Scenic areas: Iron Mountain, Cowles Mountain, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

These seven Californian cities provide a variety of trails for every type of hiker, from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, these cities have something for everyone to enjoy.