California spans a large majority of the West Coast and as a result offers a variety of scenery to hike and backpack. From coast, desert and mountains, this state has a variety of trails and hiking levels to enjoy.
John Muir Trail
The John Muir Trail is the most famous of trails, spanning three national parks and 218 miles. It’s a strenuous hike. Most backpackers take close to a month to hike it, but it can be made shorter with the right entrance and exit trailheads. This trail is the most famous of John Muir’s adventures and scales the Eastern Sierra Mountains and Yosemite National Park. It’s said to be the most difficult but most beautiful trails most backpackers have ever experienced.
John Muir Wilderness © Stevehymon | Dreamstime
Big Sur
For the less extreme hiker, there are many smaller and less stressful trails along the famous California coast and they bring a different backdrop to the usual mountain air. Big Sur being known for its scenic coastlines also offers great coastal trails and rivers to get that alone time with Mother Nature. Most trails scale the sister mountains that hug the Pacific Ocean which allow for 360-degree views of all of what California has to offer!
Sykes Hot Springs
The Sykes Hot Springs is probably the most famous of the Big Sur hikes, and allows hikers a “one way in, one way out” trail that has many camps along the way. The actual hot springs are roughly a 12-mile hike inland from the coast, so if the pack is feeling too heavy to make it, you can still enjoy one of the closer camps situated on the same river.
Read This Next
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Oct 29, 2026Hotel Nightcaps Are Having a Moment: Where to Find One in Seattle
Who doesn’t love a good nightcap? As travelers begin to prioritize ending the night with a cocktail, the traditional “one last drink” is evolving into a more intentional part of the night.
Sponsored Content
12 Reasons to Visit Gozo, Malta’s Slower Sister Island
Gozo may be small in size, but Malta’s charming sister island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, deep-rooted history, rich culture and adventure. Gozo offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. From picturesque villages and cliffside views to ancient temples and festive celebrations, the island invites visitors to slow down and savor the true Mediterranean lifestyle.
Hotel
Oct 28, 2026Book a Stay at Sofitel New York for NYC’s Festive Season
New York City is the place to be during the holiday season. From festive Christmas markets to ice skating through Central Park, the city comes alive and embraces its Manhattan magic.
Surveys
Oct 28, 2026Study Finds Younger Travelers Skeptical of AI Travel Planning
A new study from Squaremouth, a travel insurance marketplace, finds younger travelers are skeptical of using AI for travel planning. However, AI usage for travel planning is increasing overall.
Sponsored Content
TAP Air Portugal: A Milestone Year
From small airline to global success, TAP Air Portugal turns 80 and better than ever.
Destinations / North America
Oct 28, 2026How Athens, Georgia, Became a Year-Round Hockey Destination
Athens, Georgia, may be best known in the sports world as a football destination for the successful Georgia Bulldogs (and they do, of course, deserve recognition), but did you know Athens is also one of the South’s newest and unexpected hockey towns?
ShareThis