Best Hikes in Northern California | Trails in Bay Area

These hikes in Northern California take you over volcanic peaks, deep into forests, and through impressive mountain ranges. Here are some of the best hikes in Northern California for your next trekking adventure.

Home to some of the world’s tallest trees, Northern California shows off magnificent natural lands, from volcanic parks to King Canyon gorges. Idyllic city escapes to coastal cities like Santa Cruz and weekend getaway destinations like Gold Country aren’t too far away.

Stretching from just south of San Francisco to the Northern Coast of California, the region provides spectacular vistas which you can experience on magical hikes. Wander through redwood forests, dip under glorious waterfalls or climb up peaks to marvel at impressive coastal views.

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and journey on one of the best hikes in Northern California. 

Dreamy Northern California hikes and Bay Area trails

Get your hiking boots ready for an unforgettable journey in this awe-inspiring region. So you know exactly what to expect with each walk, all the essentials are in point form, but keep reading to find out what makes each trail special!

Lower Yosemite Falls Trail, Yosemite National Park

Distance: 1 mile
Difficulty level: Easy
Approx. time: 30 minutes
Starting point: Valley Visitor Center (Shuttle Stop #6)
Type: Loop

Lower Yosemite Fall, part of North America’s tallest waterfall, has a thunderous sound and a spectacular view that steals travelers’ hearts. This short hike is a must do even if you only have one day in Yosemite.

As a quick and easy hike, this is an ideal option for travelers looking for an adventure with their doggies. If you’re entering the park on foot, the entrance is $15. However, those traveling by car will need to pay $35. 

While this trail is open all year round, it tends to get chilly during winter. You’ll most likely get wet from the falls, so don’t forget a reliable rain jacket!

Rubicon Trail, Lake Tahoe

Distance: 15.3 miles
Difficulty level: Moderate
Approx. time: There are various trails – anywhere between 3 and 8 hours
Starting point: Vikingsholm Estate
Finishing point: D.L. Bliss State Park
Type: Out and back

Located near South Lake Tahoe, you can expect to experience magical views of the lake – with winter showing off snowy pine trees in the background. If you shy away from the cold, it’s best visited from May until October. 

Nature enthusiasts frequent the trail to embark on hikes, trail runs, camping trips, or simply as a chance to spend days outdoors enjoying the surroundings. If you keep your eyes peeled, you might spot ospreys or eagles. 

Alamere Falls Trail, Point Reyes National Seashore

Distance: 12.2 miles
Difficulty level: Moderate
Approx. time: 6-8 hours
Starting point: Palomarin Trailhead located in the parking lot
Finishing point: Wildcat Campground
Type: Out and back

This magical bay area hiking trail reveals a tidefall waterfall that leads into the Pacific Ocean. On a sunny and clear day, you’ll even be treated to views of the Farallon Islands.

As an easy-to-follow coastal trail in one of the most beautiful California State Parks, you’ll experience spectacular views of the ocean, as well as varying forest terrains. If you’re hiking the bay area during the summer (highly recommended so that you avoid slippery rocks), don’t forget to take a dip in Bass Lake.

Rainbow Falls Trail, Mammoth Lakes

Distance: 4.9 miles
Difficulty level: Easy
Approx. time: 3 hours
Starting point: Rainbow Falls Trailhead
Finishing point: Reds Meadow Road
Type: Out and back

Rainbow Falls has been deemed one of the most beautiful waterfalls in California and the highest in the Eastern Sierras. It gets its name from the striking rainbows that make an appearance in the mist of the falls. It reminds me a little bit of Skogafoss, one the top places to visit in Iceland.

It’s also not the only falls you’ll spot. At the end of the trail, you’re greeted by a 101-foot waterfall.

Wander along pristine mountain scenery to the Inyo National Forest, spy upon deer, and watch squirrels hopping from tree to tree. Once you reach the falls, dip your feet into the cool waters or feel the rush right under the falls.

Lassen Peak Trail, Lassen Volcanic National Park

Distance: 5 miles
Difficulty level: Hard
Approx. time: 3-5 hours
Starting point: Parking lot in Lassen National Park
Finishing point: As above
Type: Out and back

Perhaps you’re looking for a more challenging hike? Lassen Peak isn’t for the faint-hearted, but its volcanic peaks and the view from the top of the summit can’t be beaten. While it’s only 2.5 miles going up, hikers need to be cautious of loose rocks while traveling back down.

It’s about 4 hours from San Francisco, making it a wonderful idea for a day trip and a way of escaping into nature.

RELATED READING
19 tips for hiking in winter

Sequoia Trail, Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Distance: 4.3 miles
Difficulty level: Moderate
Approx. time: 3 hours
Starting point: Park headquarters
Type: Loop

Situated near Boulder Creek, Sequoia Trail is one of the most popular trails in Santa Cruz. You’ll catch locals hiking with friends, enjoying a morning jog, or taking some time to birdwatch. 

The trail is normally open all year round, although it’s currently closed while undergoing repairs due to fire damage. Please check the latest trail conditions here.

In summer, California tends to be quite sunny, but this is pleasantly a largely shaded trail. Journey through redwood forests, which lead you to a viewing point of the Sempervirens Falls.

Island and Twin Lakes Trail in Desolation Wilderness, Lake Tahoe

Distance: 6.2 miles
Difficulty level: Moderate
Approx. time: 4 hours
Starting point: Twin Lakes trailhead by Wrights Lake
Finishing point: Island Lake
Type: Out and back

If you’re someone who loves spending the night under the stars, take two days to hike Twin Lakes and Island Lake. Nestle your tent in between the peaks and marvel at the incredible beauty that surrounds you – you can even bring along your furry friends. 

Many of the best hikes in the Bay Area are crowded, but you’ll love the seclusion and private paths you encounter in Desolation Wilderness. Just be sure to take a warm jacket – the peaks make for a chilly journey.

Pacific Crest Trail, Northern California Section

Distance: More than 1,000 miles
Difficulty level: Moderate to hard
Approx. time: Multiple days
Starting point: Highway 178 at Walker Pass
Finishing point: Donomore Meadows
Type: Thru-hike

Picking up the Southern California section of the Pacific Crest Trail at Walker Pass on Highway 178, this epic thru-hike will take you over volcanic peaks, deep into forests, and through impressive mountain ranges.

But don’t worry, you don’t have to disappear from the planet to embark on this journey. Travelers can opt for a week-long trek that proves to be just as wonderful. 

Hiking North of San Francisco provides opportunities for watching migrating birds, trekking through the luscious forests, seeing badgers, and the occasional bobcat.

Why not check out the Southern California hike of the Pacific Crest Trail too?

Essentials for hiking in Northern California

Before you hit the hiking trails in Northern California, here are some basic items that will help you make your hikes safer and more enjoyable.

Water – Don’t set off on your hike without packing plenty of water. A hydration pack is a very convenient way to carry up to 2 litres. Alternatively, you can take a refillable bottle like Grayl Geopress Water Purifier, which has a powerful filtration system that filters out bacteria, viruses, and other particles such as chemicals and microplastics.

Backpack – A backpack is a must for your hikes so you can keep everything you need in one place. This Osprey Hikelite 26 hiking backpack has a hydration compartment and is perfect for both short and long hikes.

Hiking shoes – Make sure you wear appropriate footwear. Besides making the hike more comfortable, wearing hiking shoes or boots like these Scarpa hiking boots, will offer you support when walking over uneven terrain.

Extra pair of socks – Bringing an extra pair of hiking socks is useful just in case you find yourself with wet feet after crossing a stream. It’ll make all the difference being able to complete your hike with dry feet. My favourite brand of hiking socks is Smartwool.

Sun protection gear – When hiking, particularly in trails where there is little or no shade, make sure you protect yourself from the sun with a hat, and with a sun shirt. Sunscreen is also essential no matter the weather, and this one from Thinksport is non-greasy and chemical free. And of course, don’t forget your poralized sunglasses for maximum protection!

Trekking poles – On challenging treks or thru-hikes, trekking poles will save your knees going down, and will help you get up those mountains and hills on strenuous hikes in Northern California. I have been using lightweight Leki trekking poles for many years and I could not recommend them enough.

Headlamp – Some of these hikes offer great sunset or sunrise views, which would mean that you may need to walk some of it in the dark. Bring a lightweight headlamp like this Petzl headlamp with you to light up your way.

First aid kit – It’s always good to be prepared for any eventuality, especially if you are planning to go into the wilderness or up a mountain, so pack an easy-to-carry first aid kit. 

Compass – I have a terrible sense of direction, so if I accidentally veer off the path, I know I can find my way back even if I don’t have phone service, thanks to my little compass. I always carry one with me just in case.

Discovering the Northern California and Bay Area hikes

From strolling along the Pacific Coast to summiting volcanoes, California holds a piece of treasure for all kinds of travelers. With many of these norcal hikes being a short car ride away, an adventure can always be found. 

Whether you enjoy a short walk or a grueling month-long journey, you’ll find the perfect Northern California hiking gems. 

To continue your journey discovering the Golden State, why not go on a California road trip or try and explore some of California’s hidden gems?

Have you done any of the best hikes in Northern California?
Share the highlights of your journey in the comments below

Like this post? Pin and save for later