You’re headed to the Golden State for relaxation and activity. The mild temperatures and abundance of sunshine make it a great destination for enjoying outdoor adventure trips. The state is big on fresh air and fun. Here’s a list of outdoor places to see.
Redwood Forests
The forests consist of 40 miles of coastline. The landscape is home to some of the oldest trees in the world. It’s vast enough to spend an entire weekend or longer amongst the canopy of trees. Otherwise, you can spend a few hours and continue on to another outdoor adventure.
Catalina Island
Technically, it’s off the coast of California. The island forms the top part of the Channel Islands archipelago. See the wildlife, go snorkeling, and hike up Orizaba. The island rests one hour away from the mainland.
Hot Springs
Those camping in the area are accustomed to seeing hot springs rise out of the grounds that are entirely surrounded by mountains. There are other hot springs in the area, yet Wild Willy’s spot is supplied with a boardwalk.
Joshua Tree
It’s a unique point where two deserts meet. It’s a vast 800,000 acres and temperatures and winds can change on nature’s whim. It’s such a popular destination since you can spend a few minutes or a few days roaming the grounds. Hike to the Keys View to see a grand view of Coachella Valley.
Bear Flat Trail
The 13 miles provide an opportunity to see San Gabriel Mountains. On average, the trek takes about one full day to complete. Opt for Mt. Baldy if you want more of a challenge and to avoid some of the crowds. Unless it’s cold and there’s snow on the ground, the trails are pretty safe to hike all year long.
Saddle Peak
The “Hollywood Hills” is popular in American lore, but the Santa Monica mountains and Saddle Peak enable tourists to see a panoramic view of the surrounding area. Be sure to bring along your sunscreen, for you’ll have nothing to block the sun once you get to the top. It’s a distance from the Marriott Lodge at Sonoma so you’ll want to spend more time in the state if you want to see its northern and southern half.
Bike Trails
Venice and Santa Monica beaches are the top tourist spots, but the lesser known beaches are accessible on bikes and not any less beautiful. Cruise through Hermosa, Manhattan, and Redondo beaches. The Marvin Braude Trail is 22 miles long and curves out to the coastline as well as inward towards the palm trees.
San Elijo
Hug the ocean and wax-up your surfboard. The San Elijo campground is next to a lagoon overlooking the ocean. Take a few surf lessons, go for walks on the beach, and pop-in the numerous coffee shops and eateries. If you love the outdoors, this is the place for you!
Sportfishing
If you love to be out on the ocean, then you can’t dismiss opportunities that await you in Dana Point. Sportfishing tours last for up to five hours. Those on board will teach you how to fish or help you improve your current techniques.