5 Reviving Hikes in California
Hiking can bring so much into our lives including an amazing dose of a natural dopamine release. Being in nature while also moving your body is a powerful tool to help you discover your mindfulness and bring that beautiful spirit some peace. Here are some amazing hikes in California with great views and amazing vibes.
1. Clementine Trail to Lake Clementine
Located in Auburn, Ca, this trail is 4.4 miles long and takes about 2 hours to complete. This is of course if you don’t stop at the beautiful rest spots or the views along the way. The clear blue American River flows the whole way down this hike and ends at a dam and waterfall. It also passes under Foresthill Bridge, the tallest bridge in California.
My favorite thing about this hike is the side trails that lead to small shore beaches along the river. Some of these spots are more popular than others with large rocks to jump off of into the clear waters below. Others are more private and peaceful, perfect for a private picnic, meditating, or just to relax and enjoy the water and the nature views.
The trail is mostly flat and easy going. Dogs are allowed on leashes, so feel free to bring your favorite furry friends. It also gets hot in the summer so it’s wise to go early. It will get packed on the weekends, so if you’re able the weekdays are the perfect time to visit. Parking is $10 for the day and there are bathrooms at the pay station and at the trail head.
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2. Lands End Trail
This trail is in San Francisco, Ca. It is 3.4 miles long and takes about 1.5 hours. The views are beautiful and one of a kind, they included the Pacific Ocean, the Golden Gate Bridge and the Sutro Baths. You can also visit the Mile Rock beach or Fort Miley afterwards if you like. The cool San Francisco air makes this a perfect summer hike.
I love this trail mostly for the views, you can’t help but to stop in awe of what mother nature can do here. The ocean breeze is so inviting, and the sound of the ocean waves is serene. I like to take it slow and really experience all that is around me on this hike. After my hike I like to take my packed lunch and enjoy it on the beach below while I look out at the ocean views.
The trail is easy with only a few small inclines. There is free parking along the street near the visitor center which is also where you will find the only bathroom. Dogs on leash are also allowed on this trail as well as well as on the beach.
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3. Rainbow Falls Trail
Rainbow falls is in Mammoth Lakes, Ca. The large waterfall is apart of the Devils Pipeline National monument and is famous for the colorful rainbow the mist creates. This hike is 5 miles in total and takes around 2.5 hours to complete, not including the time you spend at the waterfall of course. The best time to come and experience these natural rainbows would be about midday when the sun is at her highest.
This hike is another magical one. The waterfall isn’t the only beautiful part of this hike; the views of the forests as well as the devil’s pipeline are also worth the experience. I love to bring a lunch to enjoy at the waterfall as well as some water colors with paper and something to swim in. The trail gets little shade so a dip before walking back is a must in the summer.
There is a free shuttle from the village to the trail head for this hike if you would like, but you can drive and park for a $10 day fee. Dog are allowed on the trail on a leash, as well as on the shuttle with leash and muzzle. Bring lots of water as the trail has little shade and is very hot in the summer.
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4. Sunset Cliffs Trail
This trail with one-of-a-kind views is in San Deigo, Ca at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park. A perfect end of the day or first morning walk. Only a 2.1 mile walk that takes less than an hour, but if you’re like me and you can’t help but to stare out into the beautiful colors in the sky, it will take a bit longer.
I love the view of the sky and ocean here. The views also include intricately carved coastal bluffs, arches and sea caves. This hike is easy and carefree, there are benches and areas you can sit to enjoy the scenery a bit longer. You can also search on Air BnB experiences for a sunset picnic, for information on this click here. This short but memorable hike is definitely worth the visit.
Dogs are not allowed from 9am to 6pm for most of the year, so if you have your fur baby with you it’s best to wait until after 6pm or go for a lovely morning walk with coffee and bagel in hand before 9am. The trail is a mix or sand and sidewalk. There are no available restrooms. There are several parking lots along the trail to park for free.
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5. San Juan Rapids Trail
The San Juan Rapids Trail is one I hike a lot. It is in Fair Oaks, Ca at Bannister Park. Like Lake Clementine this trail also runs along the American River. The waters are clear and full of fish here. The hike is 2.9 miles and takes around an hour to complete. Mostly flat land makes for an easy and enjoyable hike.
I really love this hike for the side trails that lead to the river all the way down the main trail. They can serve as a private beach for you to journal, reflect, draw, or listen to music and go for a dip. They also make for great fishing spots. I like to pack up a picnic and my favorite book and spend some time in the fresh nature air while I listen to the calming river in the background. It is a great and easily assessable place to spend a summer morning.
Parking is free before 5pm but the parking lot is small, there is street parking as well. Bathrooms are close to the parking lot as well as waste bags for your pet. There is little shade on the trail, so it is wise to come early and remember to bring lots of water. The trail is mostly dirt with sidewalk for the first and last .5 mile. Dogs on leashes are also allowed.
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