The 30 Best Hiking trails with wildlife in California

Welcome to Chapparosa Trail, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Laguna Niguel, California. Located at 26 South Peak, our park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a fitness buff, or simply looking for a tranquil escape, Chapparosa Trail provides an idyllic setting to explore and unwind. Our well-maintained trails meander through lush landscapes, offering breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature. Enjoy a leisurely walk, invigorating jog, or challenging bike ride along our scenic paths. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Welcome to Sycamore Creek Trail, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Dana Point, California. Located at 33856-33998 Del Obispo Street, this serene park and tourist attraction offers visitors a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Sycamore Creek Trail is a picturesque haven for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and families seeking a peaceful retreat. The trail winds through lush greenery, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely walk, a vigorous hike, or a scenic spot for a picnic, Sycamore Creek Trail provides an idyllic setting.

Welcome to San Onofre Bluffs Trail, a stunning natural escape located along the picturesque Old Pacific Highway in San Onofre, California. As a beloved local park, San Onofre Bluffs Trail offers visitors a unique blend of breathtaking coastal views, serene landscapes, and diverse wildlife. Whether you're an avid hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, our trails provide the perfect setting for exploration and relaxation. Stretching along the rugged coastline, the bluffs offer panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, where you can witness the mesmerizing dance of waves and the vibrant hues of California sunsets. The trails are well-maintained and accessible, catering to both casual walkers and seasoned hikers. Along the way, you'll encounter native flora and fauna, making every visit a delightful opportunity to connect with nature.

Welcome to San Onofre Trail 6, a serene and picturesque park located in Camp Pendleton North, California. Nestled along the stunning coastline, our park offers a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Whether you're looking to hike, bike, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll, San Onofre Trail 6 provides a refreshing retreat with breathtaking ocean views and diverse wildlife. Our well-maintained trails wind through a variety of landscapes, from sandy beaches to rugged cliffs, offering something for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a peaceful place to relax, you'll find your ideal spot here. The park is also a great destination for picnicking, birdwatching, and photography, with ample opportunities to capture the beauty of Southern California's natural environment.

Welcome to Coastal Trail, your gateway to nature's breathtaking beauty in Crescent City, California. Located at 100 A Street, Coastal Trail is a stunning park that offers a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Nestled along the rugged Northern California coastline, our park provides visitors with picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean, lush forests, and serene landscapes. Explore our well-maintained trails that wind through diverse terrains, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation. Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll or an invigorating hike, Coastal Trail caters to all levels of adventure. Discover the rich biodiversity of the area, with chances to spot local wildlife and native plant species.

Welcome to Hammond Coastal Trail, your gateway to the breathtaking natural beauty of the Northern California coast. Nestled in the charming town of McKinleyville, our park offers a serene escape for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers alike. Located at 980 Lycoming Avenue, the Hammond Coastal Trail invites you to explore its picturesque landscapes, featuring miles of scenic trails that meander along the rugged coastline and through lush forests. Whether you're hiking, biking, or simply taking a leisurely stroll, you'll be captivated by the stunning ocean views, diverse wildlife, and the tranquil ambiance that defines our park. Ideal for picnics, bird watching, and photography, the Hammond Coastal Trail provides a perfect setting for both adventure and relaxation.

Welcome to Diamond Trail Start, your gateway to natural beauty and outdoor adventure in Arcata, California. Nestled at 1202 Diamond Drive, our park offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the area, Diamond Trail Start provides the perfect setting for hiking, biking, and nature exploration. Our well-maintained trails weave through lush landscapes, offering stunning views and a chance to reconnect with nature. Ideal for families, solo explorers, and groups, the park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Enjoy a leisurely walk, a challenging hike, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking scenery.

Welcome to Dunes Trail, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Arcata, California. Located at Dunes Trail, Arcata, CA 95521, our park offers a breathtaking escape into nature's beauty. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor exploring the stunning landscapes of Northern California, Dunes Trail provides a perfect setting for relaxation, adventure, and exploration. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of our picturesque trails, where you can enjoy leisurely strolls, invigorating hikes, or peaceful moments of reflection amidst the natural dunes and lush greenery. The park's diverse ecosystem is home to a variety of native flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife observers.

Welcome to Elk River Wildlife Area, a serene natural escape located in the heart of Humboldt Hill, California. Nestled within the lush landscapes of the 95503 area, our park offers a tranquil retreat for nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone seeking to reconnect with the great outdoors. Explore the diverse habitats that make up our wildlife area, home to a variety of native flora and fauna. Whether you're an avid birdwatcher, a hiking enthusiast, or simply looking to enjoy a peaceful picnic surrounded by nature's beauty, Elk River Wildlife Area provides the perfect backdrop for your outdoor adventures.

Welcome to the Eel River Wildlife Area - Ocean Ranch Unit, a breathtaking natural sanctuary nestled in Loleta, California. This unique park offers visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of Northern California's diverse ecosystems. Spanning over lush wetlands, coastal dunes, and expansive tidal flats, the Ocean Ranch Unit is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, bird watchers, and nature lovers alike. Explore miles of scenic trails that wind through this vibrant landscape, providing panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Eel River's estuarine environment. The area is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including migratory birds, marine life, and native plant species, making it an ideal spot for photography and educational exploration.

Welcome to Headwaters Reserve Salmon Creek Trail, a breathtaking natural sanctuary located in Fortuna, California. Spanning 7,472 acres, this unique park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike. Established in 1999, Headwaters Forest Reserve protects the last unprotected, intact old-growth redwood forest ecosystem, home to several threatened species such as the coho salmon, northern spotted owl, and marbled murrelet. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management in consultation with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Reserve offers a variety of trails for visitors to explore. The Elk River Trail, open year-round, is a popular destination for hiking, bicycling, dog walking, and wildlife viewing. Along this five-mile trail, interpretive signs highlight the historic value of the once-busy mill town of Falk and the grassroots activism that led to the Reserve's creation. The Headwaters Education Center, located 0.5 miles from the Elk River Trailhead, offers insights into the Reserve's natural and cultural history.

Welcome to SCARF Nature Trail, a serene and enchanting park located at 151 Du Luard Road, Whitethorn, California. Nestled in the heart of the picturesque landscape of Northern California, our nature trail offers a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts, families, and adventurers alike. Explore miles of well-maintained trails that wind through lush forests, vibrant meadows, and along tranquil streams. Whether you're an avid hiker or simply looking for a leisurely stroll, SCARF Nature Trail promises a rejuvenating experience amidst the beauty of nature.

Point Cabrillo is a charming institution located on the South Trail in Mendocino, California. This unique destination offers a combination of a museum, park, and store, providing visitors with a diverse and enriching experience. The museum showcases the history and significance of Point Cabrillo, while the park offers stunning views of the California coast and opportunities for outdoor exploration. The on-site store features a variety of locally-made goods and souvenirs for visitors to take home. Whether you're interested in learning about the area's history, enjoying nature, or shopping for unique gifts, Point Cabrillo has something for everyone.

Dublin Hills Regional Open Space Preserve is a 654-acre park located in Dublin, California. The park offers a variety of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, including a segment of the Calaveras Ridge Regional Trail. The park is home to diverse plant communities, including California annual grassland, oak-bay woodlands, and shrublands. Wildlife such as Cooper's hawks, red-tailed hawks, and golden eagles can be spotted in the area. Wetland habitats in the park provide a source of food and water for wildlife, including amphibians and migratory shorebirds. The park is open daily from 8am to 4:30pm (hours vary seasonally) and has a curfew from 10pm to 5am. Visitors can access the park from Dublin Boulevard and Marshall Canyon Drive. Public WiFi is not available, but visitors can check for cell phone coverage from AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. For more information, contact the park at (510) 544-3030 or toll-free at 1-888-EBPARKS.

Heintz Open Space is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located on Valley View Trail in Los Gatos, California, United States. This expansive open space offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, and other recreational activities in this peaceful and scenic setting. With its serene atmosphere and abundant wildlife, Heintz Open Space is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

Turtle Rock is a captivating tourist attraction located at 10 Hickory Oaks Trail in the picturesque city of Los Gatos, California, United States. As its name suggests, the institution is home to a stunning rock formation that resembles a turtle. Visitors can marvel at the natural beauty of this unique landmark while exploring the surrounding area, which is filled with lush greenery and scenic views. Turtle Rock is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the California landscape.

Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve is a stunning natural park and tourist attraction located in Huntington Beach, California. This beautiful reserve is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the picturesque trails, observe wildlife in their natural habitat, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this coastal gem. With its prime location along California State Route 1, Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to birdwatch, hike, or simply relax in nature, this reserve is the perfect place to unwind and connect with the environment.

Pantera Park is a picturesque and serene tourist attraction located at 738 Pantera Drive in Diamond Bar, California. This beautiful park offers visitors a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, winding pathways, and scenic views. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply relax in nature, Pantera Park has something for everyone. With its convenient location and peaceful atmosphere, Pantera Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Plan your visit today and experience the beauty of this hidden gem in Southern California.

Creekside Park is a charming and picturesque park located at 25743 Stonehill Drive in Dana Point, California. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a relaxing and peaceful environment to enjoy nature and the great outdoors. With its lush greenery, bubbling creeks, and scenic walking paths, Creekside Park is the perfect place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply soak in the beauty of the surroundings, Creekside Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Hawk View Park is a picturesque tourist attraction located at 1309 Blue Heron Avenue in Encinitas, California, United States. This charming park offers stunning views of the surrounding area, making it a popular destination for visitors and locals alike. With well-maintained walking paths, lush greenery, and a serene atmosphere, Hawk View Park is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature. Whether you're looking for a peaceful place to unwind or a scenic spot to take in the beauty of Encinitas, Hawk View Park is a must-visit destination.

Stout Grove Trailhead is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 17 West 4th Avenue in Crescent City, California, United States. This enchanting trailhead offers visitors the opportunity to explore the stunning Stout Grove, a pristine old-growth redwood forest that is home to some of the tallest trees in the world. The peaceful and serene atmosphere of the trailhead provides the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike through the towering redwoods. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Stout Grove Trailhead is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Crescent City.

Noyo Headlands Park is a stunning coastal park located in Fort Bragg, California. This park is a recent addition to the California Coastal Trail in Mendocino County, offering visitors the chance to explore a stretch of coastline that was previously inaccessible to the public for over a century. The park boasts incredible wildlife viewing opportunities and a 5-mile long trail that is suitable for people of all abilities. The park can be accessed from two entry points in Fort Bragg, with parking available at both locations. The trail is multi-use, ADA-accessible, and features a paved surface that is perfect for biking, rollerblading, hiking, and running. Along the trail, visitors will find interpretive panels providing information on the area's natural and human history, as well as unique benches created by local artists and woodworkers. Families and leashed dogs are welcome to enjoy the park together.

Bear Gulch Day Use Area is a park and tourist attraction located in Paicines, California, United States. Visitors can enjoy various hiking trails with different levels of difficulty, from easy to strenuous. The area offers stunning views of rock formations, talus caves, and wildlife. Highlights include the Balconies Cave, Condor Gulch Trail, and Chalone Peak Trail. The institution also features accessible trails for visitors in wheelchairs. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Bear Gulch Day Use Area has something for everyone to enjoy in the great outdoors.

Rotary Community Park is a beautiful and serene park located along the Ojai Valley Trail in Ojai, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful escape for visitors looking to enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature. The park features lush greenery, walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds for children to enjoy. Whether you're looking to relax with a book, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply take a leisurely stroll, Rotary Community Park is the perfect destination for a day of outdoor fun.

Corteva Wetlands Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 1200 West 4th Street in Antioch, California. This serene and peaceful preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of wetlands, complete with diverse plant and animal species. The preserve is perfect for nature enthusiasts, bird watchers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With well-maintained trails and educational signage, Corteva Wetlands Preserve is a must-visit destination for those seeking a tranquil outdoor experience in the heart of California.

Hikshari Trailhead is a picturesque park located along the Waterfront Trail in Eureka, California. This beautiful outdoor space offers stunning views of the surrounding natural landscape and is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic. Whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful afternoon in nature or get some exercise along the trail, Hikshari Trailhead is the ideal destination. Come visit this serene park and experience the beauty of the California coast firsthand.

Headwaters Forest Reserve, located at the address Headwaters Forest Trail, Loleta, California, United States, is a 7,472-acre park established in 1999 to protect the world's last unprotected, intact, old-growth redwood forest ecosystem. The Reserve is home to several threatened species, including coho salmon, the northern spotted owl, and the marbled murrelet. Visitors can explore the unique redwood ecosystem and cultural history of the Reserve on the Elk River, South Side, and Salmon Pass trails. The Elk River Trail leads to a view of an old-growth redwood forest and is a popular destination for hiking, biking, dog walking, and wildlife viewing. Interpretive signs along the trail highlight the historic value of the once-busy mill town of Falk and the grassroots activism efforts that led to the Reserve's designation. The Headwaters Education Center, located along the Elk River Trail, is open to the public on Sundays from June to August.

Battery Davis is a historical site located on Sunset Trail in San Francisco, California, United States. Situated on the 200ft high bluffs of Fort Funston, Battery Davis offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can enjoy accessible hiking, horseback riding, and dog walking on the network of trails surrounding the battery. The sand dunes at Battery Davis are home to unique plant species that have adapted to the harsh conditions of the constantly shifting landscape. The area is also a nesting site for bank swallows, a threatened species in California. Visitors can observe these birds digging holes in the sandstone cliffs and raising their young between March and June.

Eden Landing Ecological Reserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located in Union City, California, United States. This stunning reserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore and appreciate the diverse ecosystems of the area, including wetlands, marshes, and wildlife habitats. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, birdwatching, and educational programs that highlight the importance of conservation and environmental stewardship. With its picturesque landscapes and abundant wildlife, Eden Landing Ecological Reserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Fiscalini Ranch Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located on the Bluff Trail in Cambria, California, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore pristine coastal landscapes, with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. With miles of hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and a peaceful atmosphere, Fiscalini Ranch Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, this preserve has something for everyone to enjoy. Don't miss the chance to experience the natural beauty of the Central Coast at Fiscalini Ranch Preserve.