The 30 Best Winding trails in California

Marina State Beach is a popular tourist attraction located at 200 Reservation Road in Marina, California, United States. This beach winds through the Marina Dunes Natural Preserves, offering stunning panoramic views of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. It is a hotspot for hang-gliding, radio-controlled gliders, and kites. Visitors can enjoy picnics and take in the beautiful scenery. However, water recreation is not recommended due to strong rip currents. The weather can be changeable, so layered clothing is advised. Dogs are not allowed at this location, but are permitted at other nearby beaches. The Marine Protected Areas Coloring Book is available for students to learn about the diverse plant and animal life in California's MPAs. Download the coloring book and the California Coastal Explorer Guide for more information. Please note that online reservations are not available for this park.

Andrew Molera State Park is a stunning natural oasis located in Big Sur, California. This park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors the opportunity to explore miles of trails that wind through meadows, bluffs, beaches, and hilltops. With panoramic views of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, guests can enjoy hiking, beachcombing, and wildlife spotting in this relatively undeveloped park. Visitors have the option to reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable stay. Please note that the Trailcamp at Andrew Molera State Park is closed for the season until June - campgrounds can be reserved through www.ReserveCalifornia.com. Be aware that after heavy rainfall, the Big Sur River may be impassable due to high water levels.

Ryon Memorial Park is a beautiful park located in Lompoc, California, United States. This serene and picturesque park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, winding walking paths, and a variety of recreational facilities, Ryon Memorial Park is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you're looking to have a picnic with family and friends, go for a leisurely stroll, or simply soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings, this park has something for everyone. Come visit Ryon Memorial Park and experience the tranquility and beauty it has to offer.

Gaviota Peak Trailhead is a popular starting point for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the scenic trails of Gaviota Park in Goleta, California. Located at the park boundary, this institution offers easy access to a variety of hiking and biking trails that wind through the beautiful coastal landscape of the area. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and ocean, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Gaviota Peak Trailhead has something for everyone to enjoy in this picturesque park setting.

One Thousand Steps is a stunning natural feature located in Santa Barbara, California, United States. This unique landmark consists of a series of beautifully crafted stone steps that wind their way down a steep cliffside to a secluded beach below. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding coastline as they make their way down the one thousand steps. This hidden gem offers a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, making it the perfect spot for a quiet retreat or a scenic hike. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply looking for a peaceful place to unwind, One Thousand Steps is sure to leave a lasting impression.

San Buenaventura State Beach, located at 901 San Pedro Street in Ventura, California, is a laid back and retro park where time seems to slow down. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, surfing, picnicking, beach volleyball, and frisbee on the two-mile stretch of sandy beach. The beach is lifeguarded year-round by the State of California's highly trained lifeguards, ensuring a safe experience for all. The park also features wild and scenic sand dunes, as well as well-appointed picnic sites with tables, grills, and wind and privacy screens. With 6 acres of turf and ample parking, San Buenaventura State Beach is the perfect location to host events and gatherings.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, located at 12600 North Torrey Pines Road in California, is a stunning park and tourist attraction known for its unique natural beauty. The reserve is home to the rare Pinus torreyana pine tree, found only in this area and on Santa Rosa Island. Visitors can explore trails through wind-sculpted pines, high cliffs, and deep ravines overlooking the ocean. The reserve also boasts one of the last salt marshes and waterfowl refuges in Southern California. The picturesque visitor center, housed in a pueblo-style building, offers interpretive displays for guests to learn more about the park's rich plant community and wildlife. Picnicking and camping are not allowed in the reserve, but visitors can enjoy the nearby Torrey Pines State Beach accessible by trail. The park's popularity means that parking can be a challenge, especially during peak hours, so it is recommended to plan visits accordingly. Admission fees range from $12-$25 per vehicle, and camping is not permitted. Gates open at 7:15 am and close at sunset, with the visitor center opening daily at 9:00 am. With its breathtaking scenery and diverse plant and animal life, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Wintermist Park is a serene and picturesque park located at 10 Wintermist in Irvine, California, United States. This beautiful park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, winding paths, and a tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply relax and soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings. With its well-maintained grounds and scenic views, Wintermist Park is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Rancho Santa Margarita Arroyo Park is a beautiful outdoor recreation area located in Rancho Santa Margarita, California. This park offers a peaceful and scenic setting for visitors to enjoy nature, relax, and engage in various outdoor activities. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and serene atmosphere, Rancho Santa Margarita Arroyo Park is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a picnic with family and friends, or a fun day of exploring. The park is also equipped with amenities such as picnic tables, benches, and restroom facilities for visitors' convenience. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or get some exercise in the great outdoors, Rancho Santa Margarita Arroyo Park is a wonderful destination for all ages to enjoy.

Island Park is a picturesque and serene park located at 8825 Bonito Circle in Elk Grove, California, United States. This beautiful park offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, winding pathways, and a peaceful pond. Visitors can enjoy picnics, leisurely strolls, and birdwatching in this idyllic setting. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax or a place to connect with nature, Island Park is the perfect destination.

Chevret-Vaissade Park is a charming green space located at 1770 Felix Avenue in Arcata, California. This beautiful park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush trees, open grassy areas, and winding walking paths. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply relax and take in the serene surroundings. The park is a popular spot for outdoor activities such as frisbee, yoga, and birdwatching. With its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque setting, Chevret-Vaissade Park is the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature in the heart of Arcata.

Windsong Park is a serene and picturesque park located in Arcata, California, United States. Situated on Ariel Way, this beautiful park offers a peaceful retreat for visitors to enjoy nature and relax in a tranquil setting. With lush greenery, winding paths, and open spaces, Windsong Park is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a picnic with family and friends, or simply to unwind and connect with the outdoors. Whether you're looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life or simply enjoy some time in nature, Windsong Park is the ideal destination for all ages to explore and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.

Richardson Grove State Park is a beautiful park located at 1600 U.S. 101, Garberville, California, United States. The park features campgrounds including Huckleberry, Madrone, and Dawn Redwood Group Camp, which fully reopen a week before Memorial Day weekend. The last night to camp in Huckleberry and Dawn Redwood is the Sunday of Labor Day weekend. Madrone Campground is open between 9/2 to 5/24 (off season) as walk-in only with self-registration available at the park entrance (cash/check only). Closures can be predicted in hazardous weather conditions with wind speeds over 55mph. Dogs are not allowed on trails except for service animals.

Spring Ranch Nature Preserve is a peaceful and picturesque park located in Little River, California, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area, with lush forests, meandering streams, and stunning coastal views. The park is a haven for wildlife, making it a great spot for birdwatching and nature photography. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and exploring the many trails that wind through the preserve. Whether you're looking for a quiet escape or a fun day out in nature, Spring Ranch Nature Preserve is the perfect destination.

Mill Creek is a beautiful park located on Mill Creek Road in Ukiah, California, United States. This serene and picturesque park offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With lush greenery, winding trails, and a tranquil creek running through the grounds, Mill Creek is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and connect with nature. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply enjoy the sights and sounds of the great outdoors, Mill Creek has something for everyone. Come visit this hidden gem in Ukiah and experience the beauty and tranquility of Mill Creek for yourself.

McDowell Park is a scenic outdoor oasis located in Petaluma, California, United States. This beautiful park offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, winding trails, and picturesque views. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax and unwind in nature. McDowell Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape and reconnect with the great outdoors.

Dry Creek Park is a picturesque and peaceful oasis located at 1400 Dry Creek Road in Napa, California. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and serene creek, Dry Creek Park is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a family picnic, or simply to relax and unwind. Whether you're a local resident looking for a tranquil retreat or a visitor seeking a taste of California's natural beauty, Dry Creek Park is a must-visit destination.

Pine Lake Park, located at 100 Vale Avenue in San Francisco, California, is a beautiful tourist attraction and park that offers a serene escape in the midst of the city. The park is currently undergoing repair work in certain areas due to a transmission line failure, overseen by the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission. Pine Lake Park is nestled in a valley with steep, forested slopes and is home to one of the few remaining natural lakes in San Francisco, Pine Lake. The lake is fed by the same aquifer as Lake Merced and is surrounded by willow, tule, and other wetland plants that provide habitat for a variety of resident and migratory bird species. A scenic trail encircles the lake, offering opportunities for bird watching and connecting to the larger trail network that winds through Stern Grove and the Bay Area Ridge Trail.

Mission Creek Park is a serene oasis nestled in the heart of San Francisco, California. Located at 451 Berry Street, this park is a popular tourist attraction for visitors and locals alike. With lush greenery, winding pathways, and stunning views of the city skyline, Mission Creek Park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with friends, or simply relax and take in the beauty of nature, this park is the perfect destination. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the tranquility and charm of Mission Creek Park during your visit to San Francisco.

Point Molate Beach Park is a picturesque park located at 527 Western Drive in Richmond, California, United States. This beautiful park offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and the surrounding hills, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, swimming, fishing, and hiking along the scenic trails that wind through the park. With its sandy beaches, calm waters, and peaceful atmosphere, Point Molate Beach Park is the perfect spot for a relaxing day by the water.

Hidden Canyon Park is a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Belmont, California. This hidden gem offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and stunning views, Hidden Canyon Park is the perfect spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and nature exploration. Whether you're a local looking for a tranquil retreat or a tourist seeking a unique outdoor experience, Hidden Canyon Park is sure to enchant and delight all who visit. Located at 2642 Carlmont Drive, this park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Wetlands Edge Park is a beautiful natural oasis located at 2 Eucalyptus Drive in American Canyon, California. This park is a popular tourist attraction offering a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, walking, cycling, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of the wetlands while exploring the trails that wind along the Napa-Sonoma Marsh shoreline and Napa River. The park is managed jointly by the City of American Canyon and the Napa County Regional Park & Open Space District, ensuring its preservation and maintenance for all to enjoy.

Fox Creek Park is a beautiful outdoor oasis located at 118 Anthony Way in Walnut Creek, California. This serene park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, winding trails, and a tranquil creek running through the grounds. Perfect for a leisurely stroll, a picnic with family and friends, or simply enjoying nature's beauty, Fox Creek Park is a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or get some exercise in the great outdoors, this park has something for everyone.

San Ramon Athan Downs is a picturesque park and tourist attraction nestled in the heart of San Ramon, California, United States. This serene oasis offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. With lush greenery, winding trails, and stunning views, San Ramon Athan Downs is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and reconnect with nature. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot for a leisurely stroll, a scenic spot for a picnic, or a tranquil setting for some meditation, this charming institution has something for everyone. Come visit San Ramon Athan Downs and experience the beauty and serenity that this hidden gem has to offer.

Point Isabel Dog Park is a popular 23-acre park located at 2701 Isabel Street, Richmond, California, offering stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Marin County, and Brooks Island. With an additional 20 acres at North Point Isabel across the Hoffman Channel, the park boasts over 2.5 miles of the San Francisco Bay Trail. A unique feature of this park is the special rules allowing dogs to be off-leash, under voice control, throughout the park. Recent soil testing detected lead in specific areas around the perimeter of the north side of the park, which are fenced off for safety. The Park District is working on a plan to restore these areas. Visitors can enjoy bird-watching, fishing, jogging, biking, kite flying, windsurfing, kayaking, and picnicking at the park.

Point Pinole Regional Shoreline is a stunning 2,432-acre park located in Richmond, California, offering visitors a scenic escape from the nearby urban areas. With trails winding through meadows, eucalyptus woods, bluffs, and beaches along San Pablo Bay, the park provides breathtaking views of Mt. Tamalpais, the Marin shoreline, and sailboat traffic on the bay. The park underwent major restoration in 2017, including enhancements to the Dotson Family Marsh, Atlas Road Bridge, and the Bay Trail extension. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and picnicking in the park's diverse habitats. With wheelchair-accessible facilities, group picnic areas, and a new park entrance, Point Pinole is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The park is open seasonally, with parking fees collected from April to October. For more information or to make a reservation, contact the East Bay Regional Park District at 1-888-327-2757.

Ravenswood Park is a picturesque and serene park located at 2632 Tahoe Drive in Livermore, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its lush greenery, winding trails, and scenic views. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, and birdwatching in this beautiful natural setting. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day outdoors or a peaceful spot to unwind, Ravenswood Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Heritage Grove is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located in La Honda, California, United States. Nestled among towering redwood trees, this serene oasis offers visitors a chance to reconnect with nature and explore the rich history of the area. Take a leisurely stroll along the winding trails, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and marvel at the majestic beauty of the ancient redwoods. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or a fun-filled adventure, Heritage Grove is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Dampierre Park is a charming and picturesque park located at 55 Paso Hondo in Carmel Valley, California. This serene and beautiful park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With lush greenery, winding pathways, and scenic views, Dampierre Park is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and enjoy the natural beauty of the California landscape. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to read a book, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply take a leisurely stroll, Dampierre Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Oak Creek Park is a serene and picturesque park located on Teak Drive in Paso Robles, California. This beautiful park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, winding walking paths, and a tranquil creek running through the grounds. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in the natural surroundings. Oak Creek Park is the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon in nature, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.