Hit the trail! Our Staff's Favorite Trails for National Trails Day! | Cal Parks
Published: June 2, 2022

June 4, 2022 is National Trails Day! We are celebrating by providing you with a collection of handpicked trails from our staff throughout our beautiful state.  

 

McNee Ranch to Planet of The Apes – Montara State Beach 

This primate-inspired trail is a dog-friendly ~5 mile loop with around 1500ft of elevation gain. You’ll be rewarded with some beautiful ocean views, or potentially some classic California coastal fog. Either way, this is not a trail to be missed if you find yourself in the south Bay Area. 

Turtle Back Loop Trail – China Camp State Park 

This is a half mile loop trail providing beautiful views of the San Pablo Bay as well as interpretive panels detailing the wildlife and history of China Camp State Park. These panels are also outfitted with tactile features for blind or visually impaired visitors. 

Guy Fleming Trail – Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve 

This 2/3-mile loop named after famed naturalist who helped establish Torrey Pines has beautiful ocean views, native California wildflowers, and fascinating sandstone formations. What’s not to love? 

 

 

MASH Trail – Malibu Creek State Park 

For fans of the legendary 70s TV show M.A.S.H. this trail is a real treat. Malibu Creek State Park was used as a filming location for the show as well as various other productions as the land was owned by 20th Century Fox for about 30 years. It is about 5 miles round-trip to the M.A.S.H. site, so pack accordingly for a long trek. 

 

Skull Rock Loop – Topanga State Park 

This four-mile loop features beautiful views of the Los Angeles coastline. Visit in spring for a colorful display of blooming wildflowers. The trail also features some bridge crossings and is rumored to have a small waterfall after a rainy spell. This trail doesn’t have much shade, so bring plenty of water! 

Mt. St. Helena Summit Trail – Robert Louis Stevenson State Park 

For the seasoned hiker, the Mount St. Helena Summit Trail can be challenging but you will be rewarded with stunning views of Sonoma and Napa Counties at the top. This trail is a 9.3-mile out and back path with over 2000ft of elevation gain, so pack accordingly. Why not reward yourself with some of California’s best wine afterwards? 

Jepson Trail – Tomales Bay State Park 

Experience beautiful views of Tomales Bay on this easy 7-mile route. You’ll likely encounter many birds and other coastal wildlife. After you’re done, reward yourself with some world famous Tomales Bay oysters. 

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