There’s something about a swimming hole that feels like summer: no sunscreen shimmering on top of the resort pool surface, no cars around, and definitely no concrete. Just cold water, granite, trees, and often that feeling* that you’ve discovered somewhere you’re not quite sure you should know about (*or sometimes too many people know about).

I’m doing this month’s guide a little differently. Instead of simply giving you five swim holes, I wanted to curate a list that I could rank from one star to five stars and give you my visitor perspective of why (and if you’re paying attention, there are some bonus ones sprinkled throughout this page with details in the caption of the photos).

Some of them are famous, while others very few people know anything about. Some are worth driving across California to visit, while others are still fun, but come with enough tradeoffs that I’d suggest you probably only visit once, and only if you were in the area.

Before we jump in, let’s talk about something far more important than the destinations themselves. And help me reach my goal of 20,000 email subscribers by the end of this year simply by subscribing for free:

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Before You Swim: Read the Water First

Every summer we hear tragic stories about people drowning in places that looked calm from the shore or edge. Most of the time, the danger wasn’t obvious. The quick lesson is this: clear water doesn’t equal safe water.

My Swim Safety Checklist

Whenever I’m considering getting into a river or swimming hole, I work through a few things first.

1. Watch the water before you enter

Spend a couple of minutes just observing. Look for:

• Fast current moving around bends

• Foam or bubbles racing downstream

• Recirculation below waterfalls

• Sudden changes in water color that often indicate depth

If leaves or sticks are moving faster than you can swim, that’s usually enough to say those five famous Shark Tank words: ‘for those reasons, I’m out’.

2. Ask yourself where you’ll end up if you slip

If you accidentally fell into the current, would you drift into calm water...or into rocks, a log jam, or something more dangerous?

Always think about what comes after the spot you’re swimming in.

3. Respect cold water (and the difference between air temp)

California rivers often stay surprisingly cold even during triple digit heat. Cold water can cause an involuntary gasp reflex and make it much harder to swim than people expect. See Lake Tahoe as an unfortunate example: On average, multiple drownings tragedies occur there every year.

So what should you do to lower risk but still get wet? Avoid the cliff jumps; ease in slowly, and know how your body responds to cold water.

4. August isn’t April

Many of these locations are completely different depending on the season. A calm August swimming hole can become a dangerous torrent during spring snowmelt.

If you’re looking at photos online, make sure they were taken during a similar time of year. Often times there are water flow rates you can review online: safe recreational river swimming typically requires flows under 200 cfs (cubic feet per second). And I’m not even getting into bacteria levels.

5. The best swimming hole is the one you come home from

I don’t think every beautiful place needs to become a proving ground. Every year I hike to places where people sadly never made it home.

You have to do you, but in my opinion, you don’t need to risk everything for one jump.

A Personal Update

One brief update before we get into this month’s swim holes: after nearly two years of hiking, writing, photographing, researching, and far too many hours staring at maps, my very first book manuscript is officially finished.

It’s now in the final editing stage before publication next May. Pretty wild! What started as posting California trail videos online has turned into writing an entire hiking book filled with pictures of places most people have never seen and will excite any nature lover.

I’ll probably start a wait or interest list eventually - let me know what you think in the comments. As always, thank you for reading these newsletters every month, it’s the reason these keep coming.

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Now...let’s go swimming.

⭐ Stoddard Canyon Falls (Southern California)

Location: Angeles National Forest

Distance: ~1.25 miles round trip

Difficulty: Moderate

Trail: Not available on AllTrails; search “Barrett-Stoddard Canyon Falls” on Google Maps and follow well marked signs. Adventure Pass required for parking.

California Map: I didn’t have my phone on me (see why below), so I do not have GPS tracks for this hike. But it’s super easy to follow the well marked trail.

Why it only gets one star

This waterfall is beautiful; the natural waterslide is definitely fun to watch.

But unfortunately, the experience around it wasn’t. This was one of the most overcrowded, littered waterfalls I’ve visited in California. It felt less like escaping into nature and more like attending a very crowded outdoor party. Compare the picture above to the one I took as the afternoon wore on:

The story I’ll never forget

Ironically, this hike wasn’t actually why I drove down to hike here. A week earlier, I’d lost my phone while filming a trail guide at a legendary but dangerous Northern California swimming hole (aka it dropped out of my pocked while scooting over a narrow ledge). My mom and wife still have nightmares about this one.

I figured it was gone forever. The ‘Find my iPhone’ showed it was in the middle of the river, beyond the depths I could swim. Distraught with years of lost photos and videos, I was introduced to Ben, via my friend Peter.

Ben is basically a real-life treasure hunter. He drove nearly eight hours with scuba gear, descended roughly 40 feet into the pool below the waterfall, somehow located my phone beneath the water, and recovered it after it had spent more than a week underwater.

Even crazier? When I drove down from the Bay Area to Long Beach to pick it up, the phone powered on. Since I was already in Southern California, Ben invited me to join him at Stoddard Canyon Falls so I could watch him in action and at the same time, I could finally see this famous natural waterslide.

Meeting Ben was easily the highlight of the trip. The trail itself? Not quite.

⭐⭐ Hole in the Wall (Near Leggett)

Location: Near Leggett, Northern California

Distance: 1/3 of a mile out and back

Difficulty: Easy

AllTrails: None

GPS Track: No AllTrails; can also be found by searching on google maps, but the pin location is slightly off. There are enough trail signs from the large parking area; head north once in the lot (the river will be on your right).

California Map: The pin is on my map, but for whatever reason the GPS tracks didn’t record. Next time I’m up this way, I’ll grab tracks and add it to my map.

This place is one of those spots you’re surprised isn’t famous: crystal clear water, beautiful rock formations, and hardly anyone around.

So why only two stars?

Because getting there means weaving through a lot of poison oak. The graffiti on the trail isn’t the prettiest to look at. And, the swimming area also isn’t especially deep compared to many of California’s best swim holes.

I’d absolutely stop again if I were passing through; but I probably wouldn’t plan an entire trip around it. Add it to your list if you’re headed up the 101 and towards the Avenue of Giants.

⭐⭐⭐ Rattlesnake Falls

Location: Palisades Falls Trail

Distance: ~15 miles round trip

Difficulty: Strenuous

Trail: AllTrails Link.

If I were rating only the waterfall, this would be six stars out of five.

The gorge, the emerald pools, the scenery…it’s one of the most spectacular river canyons I’ve explored anywhere in California. But there’s another reason I always think about this place.

This area was the site of multiple cliff jumping fatalities in recent years. That’s a reminder that conditions impact the analysis of what’s safe to swim in my safety section above. Late summer, when flows have dropped significantly, is completely different from spring runoff.

If you’re visiting, you absolutely need to respect the power of moving water. Personally, I skip the cliff jumping. The scenery is more than enough.

The only other thing holding this hike back? The return trip: nearly all of the climbing comes on the way out.

After a long day in the river, that uphill grind will test your limits along with the distance. It’s one I’d recommend a very early start at (or a backpacking overnight trip).

⭐⭐⭐⭐ Private

Location: Northern California, about an hour from Lake Tahoe.

GPS Track: update 8/4/2026: trail access to get here likely requires navigation through private property, which I don’t promote. Out of abundance of caution, I am removing this location but keeping the picture of this famous cliff jumping spot. Rivers and waterways are public; but given the legalities involved, I am no longer disclosing the location.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Yosemite National Park

I know, using an entire national park is probably cheating. Actually it’s definitely cheating.

But I’ll take that criticism. Yosemite simply deserves all five stars: the Merced River is essentially an easy hike that stretches through the valley. You can spend an entire day moving from swimming hole to swimming hole without ever feeling like you’re repeating yourself.

If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, there are incredible swimming spots near Upper Yosemite Falls that combine unbelievable scenery with surprisingly peaceful pools.

If you’re planning your first Yosemite trip, I’ve linked two of my favorite free resources below:

• My guide for getting the most out of Yosemite Valley.

• My family guide featuring lesser-known, kid-friendly places throughout the park.

Hopefully they’ll help you spend less time figuring out where to go and more time actually enjoying it.

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One Last Thought

The best swimming holes usually aren’t the deepest, have the tallest waterfalls, or are the places where people do the biggest cliff jump. They’re the places where you can disconnect long enough to appreciate where you are.

If you end up visiting any of these this summer, I’d love to hear what you thought. And if you’ve found a California swim hole that belongs in next year’s rankings...

Hit reply and tell me about it. And as always, I hope to see you on the trails.

- Dan
📍 Instagram | TikTok | Facebook

Sponsored by Go RVing. They invited me out to Colorado for this trip, but as always, the trail recommendations, opinions, and lessons are my own.

I finally made it to Rocky Mountain National Park. And while I’ll always be a California trail guy at heart, I have to admit it: Colorado made a pretty strong first impression. Of course it featured big mountains, moose on trail, and waterfalls, but it also had some elements that were unfortunately too California familiar: red flag warnings, drought, and burn scars that were slowly recovering.

This month’s guide is a little different than usual because I’m adding two hikes I did within Rocky Mountain National Park, both on the quieter west side near Grand Lake, as well as my researched list of bucket list RMNP trails.

For my California friends, I’d really appreciate feedback in the comments section as to whether or not this guide was valuable, or you’d rather this forum stay strictly California.

But first, the part I didn’t expect: This was also my first real RV trip. I thought RVing would mostly be about the RV, the campground, and the setup. But after a few days using it as a basecamp for hiking, I realized the bigger benefit of an RV is actually what it takes away, particularly for someone like me who does a lot of LONG day trip adventures.

What I learned from my first RV trip

I think most hikers understand this more than they’d like to admit: sometimes the hardest part of an outdoor trip is not the hike, it’s everything else before and after. For example: the early alarms, packing, the long drive, the melted ice/cooler, the “where are we eating after this?” situation, the gross bathroom stop…I think you get it.

That’s the part RVing fixes. Now my gear had a place by the door. My food is in the refrigerator. My coffee can be freshly brewed (and enjoyed near the trailhead).

I can understand why many people who have experienced RVing become absolute enthusiasts. When I got back from my hike, I sat outside, ate something easy, watched the sunset over the mountains, and I realized I didn’t have to immediately get back in the car for another long drive.

A few RVing things I wish I knew sooner

If you’re RV-curious, here were a few of my takeaways:

1. Start with your travel style, not the RV

This is where I think beginners, including myself, can get overwhelmed. People jump straight to size, layout, or “could I drive that thing?” But the better question maybe “What kind of outdoor trips do you actually take?” Are you a weekend hiker or family road tripper? Do you go to National Parks or prefer off the beaten path fishing? Are you planning longer road trips or campground comfort?

The RV should fit the way you already like to travel. In fact, you don’t have to become an “RV person” at all. You will still be a hiker, a parent, a trail guide, a photographer, or someone who just wants easier access to nature. The RV just makes the trip easier.

2. Think of it as a moving basecamp

This is the lesson of RVing made the most sense to me. For hikers, the value is both having a place to sleep and having a system with gear/food storage, water, coffee, bathroom, a place to change and a place to recover.

It also is a place to anchor to in order to help you to explore a geography more deeply, something perfect for a California ‘outsider’ exploring RMNP for the first time.

3. The campground matters more than I expected

A good campground will change the whole trip. If your thinking about where to establish your basecamp, I’d suggest considering:

• Proximity to the hikes you care about

• Shade and proximity to other camp sites

• Hookups

• Bathrooms and showers if needed (not all RVs are created equal)

• Whether the site feels relaxing or just like a parking lot

For this trip, being based near Grand Lake made the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park highly approachable, and created more flexibility for me to have a slow morning with a scrambled egg breakfast surrounded by mountain scenery.

Note: camp fire regulations can change quickly, especially during summer. Before your trip, always check current fire restrictions, local regulations, and campground rules. If campfires aren’t allowed, respect the closure and follow Leave No Trace principles to help protect these incredible places.

4. RVing makes food way less annoying

When you’re tired after hiking, there’s not a lot of patience for coming up with a plan on the spot.

Having multiple fresh food options available at basecamp without needing to find a restaurant, pay high prices, or survive on crushed snacks from the backseat is a win.

5. The best part was slowing down

I think a lot of us say we want adventure, but what we really need is relief: relief from rushing, the noise, and digital stimulation.

After I spent a few days of hiking, sitting outside, drinking coffee, watching sunsets, and not feeling like I had to pack and repack every few hours, I understood the RV appeal.

Rocky Mountain National Park: what hikers should know

Rocky Mountain National Park is split in a way that impacts planning. A lot of the famous hikes are on the east side near the Bear Lake Road Corridor. That’s where you’ll find many of the classics and bucket list worthy RMNP hikes (Alltrails links included):

• Bear Lake - Easy, family friendly 0.7 mile loop.

• Emerald Lake - Moderate, trailhead at Bear Lake, 3.5 miles out and back

• Sky Pond via Glacer Gorge Trail - Hard, includes Alberta Falls, The Loch, Lake of Glass, and Timberline Falls, 9 miles out and back (requires a scramble).

• Lake Haiyaha - Moderate, lake and wildflower views, 4 miles out and back.

But this trip was based near Grand Lake, which sits on the west side of the park. The west side is generally quieter and less “Instagram famous,” but that does not mean it is less beautiful. It also felt like a perfect intro to the park because you can still get waterfalls, wildlife, and big mountain scenery with less crowds.

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The big planning note: Rocky Mountain National Park uses a timed entry system during peak season. For most areas of the park, including the west side, you generally need a timed entry reservation during the required hours unless you enter before or after that window.

Bear Lake Road has its own stricter timed entry option, so don’t accidentally book the wrong one if your goal is Emerald Lake, Sky Pond, or Glacier Gorge. You’ll also need your National Parks pass.

Here are the two hikes I did on this trip:

Hike 1: Adams Falls

Adams Falls is probably one of the easiest “high reward for low effort” hikes near Grand Lake. The trail starts from the East Inlet Trailhead on the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park, right near Grand Lake.

The main waterfall viewpoint is only a short walk from the trailhead, which makes this a great option if you want something family friendly, you need a warm up hike, or you’re just passing through.

Adams Falls quick notes

• Location: East Inlet Trailhead, near Grand Lake, west side of RMNP

• Best for: easy waterfall, families, short scenic hike, combining with other day hikes

• Difficulty: easy to the falls

• Dogs: not allowed on RMNP trails

• Alltrails link

Hike 2: Cascade Falls

Cascade Falls was the bigger hiking win of the trip. It starts from the North Inlet Trailhead near Grand Lake and heads into a beautiful drainage with meadows, forest, water, and burn-scar recovery. The trail is not brutally steep, but it gives you enough distance to feel like you actually went somewhere. Sitting around 8500 feet of elevation, I didn’t feel any real impacts of the altitude.

I followed the North Inlet drainage toward Cascade Falls. The trail eventually brings you to rushing water, granite, and if you continue past Cascade Falls by another 1.5 miles, a bonus unmarked waterfall.

This was also where I saw my first moose (including a baby you can see hidden to the left of the mother in the picture below), which was incredible. Obvious but important: give wildlife a ton of space.

Cascade Falls quick notes

• Location: North Inlet Trailhead, near Grand Lake, west side of RMNP

• Distance: about 3.4 miles one-way to the falls; my hike was 10 miles round trip to access a second waterfall.

• Difficulty: moderate for most casual hikers because of the distance, though the grade is manageable

• Dogs: not allowed on RMNP trails

• Alltrails link.

Other Rocky Mountain National Park hikes I’d love to come back for

For a first or future RMNP trip, these are the trails I’d be looking at next, in addition to the four I mentioned previously (Emerald Lake, Bear Lake, Sky Pond, and Lake Haiyaha):

Chasm Lake: A harder hike (8.5 miles out and back, 2600 ft elevation gain) with a big payoff below Longs Peak.

Mount Ida: A long (10 miles, 2400 ft elevation) exposed alpine hike with big views.

Ouzel Falls: Located in the Wild Basin area, which is a great option if you want waterfalls and beauty without only focusing on Bear Lake Road (6 miles, 1000 ft of elevation).

Coyote Valley Trail: Paved and wheelchair accessible option that is known for wildlife viewing (elk, moose, bears - 2 miles, minimal elevation).

OK, but could I really RV? The questions I kept asking myself

Before this trip I had all kinds of assumptions about RVing, mostly because I knew absolutely nothing about it and I had never done it.

Could I even drive one? Do I need a truck? Do people just wake up one day and decide to spend a fortune on an RV? And maybe the biggest question: where would I even start if I wanted to go RVing?

After spending a few days around people who RV regularly, I realized I was making it much more complicated than it needed to be.

“But I don’t own a truck.”

This doesn’t apply to me (yes, I’m a Raptor guy), but I bet it might be one of many people’s first thoughts. There are travel trailers that require a tow vehicle, but there are also motorhomes that don’t require owning a truck at all. And RVs come in all kinds of sizes, from smaller setups that do not require a truck to much larger ones.

“What if I don’t want to buy one?”

You don’t need to make some giant commitment before you’ve even figured out whether you enjoy the experience. If I was starting from scratch, I’d probably want to experience a few trips first and learn what style of travel I actually enjoy. What worked for me may not work for you.

“What if I have no clue where to begin?”

You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Go RVing has a surprising amount of information on their website, including guides that help narrow down different RV types and travel styles.

See you on the trails?

I hope you enjoyed this guide to Rocky Mountain National Park and my takeaways from experiencing RVs for the first time.

Please let me know in the comments if you’d like more guides like this in the future!

Stay tuned for more trail guides and hiking tips; and as always, I hope to see you on the trails.

- Dan
📍 Instagram | TikTok | Facebook

I didn’t mean to become a guy who keeps track of tree swings across California. But after enough hikes where I’d round a corner and find a swing hanging over an ocean cliff, tucked inside a cave, or randomly sitting above a Sierra lake, I couldn’t stop myself.

Some California tree swings are easy to reach, others not so much. A few made me question my decision making along the way. But because I kept getting messages asking: “Wait… where is this one?”, I finally built a full California Tree Swing Map for paid subscribers (free subscribers - I still have five swings highlighted for you below).

It includes over 40 swings I’ve either visited personally or mapped out to revisit, plus GPS coordinates, route info, and more. If you think I missed one I need to add to the map please let me know in the comments!

*Quick disclaimer before people drive four hours for rope attached to a branch*:

Tree swings disappear constantly. Rangers remove them, locals cut them down, and sometimes they break. And sometimes people rebuild them a week later. That’s kind of the deal with these places.

Also: don’t trash them. A lot of these spots survive because hikers have mostly respected them. Don’t carve trees. Don’t leave garbage. Don’t widen trails trying to get a photo. The goal is finding cool places without ruining them.

PSA: make sure you are subscribed so you don’t miss future insider guides:

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Summer Hiking Tip: You Might Not Be “Bad at Altitude”

Before the swings though, one summer hiking thing that’s worth knowing. A huge percentage of people hike dehydrated, either unintentionally or under completely preventable circumstances.

You lose way more water when you combine dry air, heat, sun exposure, wind, and elevation (conditions that are highly relevant here in California). The dangerous part is that dry air evaporates sweat so fast you often don’t even realize how much fluid you’re losing.

A few tips that help me during the summer hiking season:

• Drink water before the hike, not just during it

• Bring electrolytes on longer or hotter hikes

• Start drinking fluids early; don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink

• Eat something salty afterward before driving home

If you finish a hike with a pounding headache and zero energy, there’s a decent chance your body’s just cooked from dehydration.

Now onto the swings.

1. Donner Summit Swing (Donner Pass, California)

This is my favorite Sierra swing. Nothing about it feels polished or curated. It’s just sitting out there above granite slabs with a grand view of Donner Lake.

At sunset the whole place turns orange and the wind starts ripping through the trees. Feels very old California up there.

🥾 Area: Donner Summit (17718 Donner Pass Rd, Norden, CA 95724)
🅿️ Parking: Pullouts near Donner Pass Road
📏 Distance: Less than 0.1 miles from the road
🏔️ Elevation Gain: Minimal
🦮 Dog-Friendly: Yes

2. Mt. Tam Swing (Stinson Beach)

This might be the most famous tree swing in Northern California. You’re basically swinging above the Marin coastline looking toward Stinson Beach while fog (often) moves through the hills below you. There are a few ways to reach it.

The easy version is a short walk from Panoramic Highway.

The better version is turning it into a full Mount Tamalpais hike using Dipsea, Matt Davis, or Steep Ravine.

If you’ve never done Steep Ravine, put it on your list, it’s my favorite Bay Area trail.

🥾 Trails: Matt Davis / Dipsea / Panoramic access (approximate location)
🅿️ Parking: Panoramic Highway or Stinson Beach trailheads
📏 Distance: 0.3–7+ miles depending on route
🏔️ Elevation Gain: Variable
🦮 Dog-Friendly: No

3. Swing Cave (Simi Valley, California)

This one’s ridiculous. You hike up Hummingbird Trail in full sun wondering if you’re even going the right direction… then suddenly there’s a cave with a swing hanging inside it. I hear you: this isn’t hung from a tree; however, it’s too cool not to make this type of list.

This is one of the more unique Southern California hikes I’ve done, but summer heat here is no joke. I would not attempt this on a mid summer day. The scramble sections can also be sketchy for younger kids or dogs.

🥾 Trail: Hummingbird Trail. I recommend gloves for this hike as there are some cables to assist in the last rock scramble that are falling apart and can easily poke you
📍 Location: Simi Valley, CA
🅿️ Parking: Free street parking on Kuehner Dr
📏 Distance: ~2.5–3 miles round trip
🏔️ Elevation Gain: ~1,200 ft
🦮 Dog-Friendly: Technically yes, but I wouldn’t recommend it
🕶️ Exposure: Fully exposed
📍 Swing Cave Coordinates: 34.2811569, -118.6476304

4. Albany Bulb Swing (East Bay, California)

Albany Bulb feels like a giant outdoor scavenger hunt: part shoreline hike, part driftwood art installation, and part weird Bay Area fever dream. Then somewhere out there is a swing facing the Golden Gate Bridge.

This isn’t some huge epic hike; it’s more of a wandering spot. One of the best low-effort spots in the Bay Area.

🥾 Area: Albany Bulb shoreline trails. It’s near the western most edge.
🅿️ Parking: Albany Bulb lot
📏 Distance: Flexible
🏔️ Elevation Gain: Minimal
🦮 Dog-Friendly: Yes

5. Hippie Tree (Tiburon, California)

If you grew up in the Bay Area, there’s a decent chance someone has already told you about this place. This is one of the easiest short hikes near San Francisco that has a big payoff without doing a full day adventure.

🥾 Trail: Hippie Tree social trails
📍 Location: Tiburon, CA
🅿️ Parking: Limited neighborhood parking
📏 Distance: Short hike
🏔️ Elevation Gain: Moderate
🦮 Dog-Friendly: Yes

See you on the trails?

You can find all of the trail links and GPS tracks on my California Map (plus hundreds of others across the state)! For my paid subscribers, I have all the link to the new tree swing map below.

Stay tuned for more trail guides and hiking tips! And as always, I hope to see you on the trails.

- Dan
📍 Instagram | TikTok | Facebook

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Most people come back from San Diego saying the same thing: “Yeah, it was great.”

Not exactly a ringing endorsement for one of the most visited destinations in the country; in fact 32.5 million people made their way here in 2024 alone. The infrastructure exists to handle the crowds. The problem is, most itineraries hand you straight to those crowds and call it a trip.

I wanted to find the version of San Diego County that actually delivers. So I went deep: the hidden hikes, the skip-worthy Instagram traps, the hotel mistake I won’t make again, and the one morning that completely changed how I see this place. That last one involves a 5am alarm, a desert slot canyon, and a decision most visitors might not make.

This is what I found…and what I’d do differently. As always, make sure you are subscribed so you don’t miss future insider guides:

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First: Consider When to Go

San Diego’s famous “perfect weather” has a caveat: from roughly mid-May through June, a marine layer can blanket the coast in overcast skies. Locals call it “May Gray” and “June Gloom”. The clouds do tend to burn off by early afternoon most days, but some days stay gray all day.

The real sweet spot for visiting San Diego County is spring (March–May) and fall (September–November). You can expect milder weather, smaller crowds, and noticeably cheaper accommodations. July is peak season, with approximately 4 million visitors hitting the city that month alone.

If May is your window, it’s still a great trip. Just plan your desert day early, and don’t expect blue skies before 10am on the coast.

Where We Stayed (and Why I Wouldn’t Do It Again)

We based ourselves out of the Mission Bay Resort. On paper: central location, waterfront, family-friendly. In practice? It didn’t work.

The beaches felt small and functional rather than scenic. Campground fireworks went off way later than you’d want with kids. And every great part of San Diego required getting back in the car. By day two, we were already planning our exit north.

If you’re researching where to stay in San Diego County, I recommend skipping both Mission Bay and La Jolla proper. La Jolla is incredible to explore, but it’s crowded, chaotic, and not where you want to decompress at the end of the day.

The sweet spot for this itinerary: Del Mar.

Quieter, still central to everything, and just removed enough from the tourist machinery to feel like you’re actually in it. If you want to do it right, L’Auberge Del Mar puts you exactly where you want to be. It’s a splurge, but a justified one, and where we would look to stay whenever we next head down this way.

The Drive Down from Northern California (Make It Part of the Trip)

We broke the drive into pieces, and that ended up being one of the smarter calls of the trip.

Dana Point Harbor and the Bluff Top Arches makes an easy, scenic stop on the way in, just enough coastal payoff to reset everyone before the final stretch.

From there, we headed to Annie’s Canyon Trail near Solana Beach. If you’ve seen it on Instagram, you might be expecting a dramatic slot canyon experience. That’s not quite what it is; with most of the hike winds through a coastal lagoon, and the canyon section shorter than the photos suggest. But it’s still a fun, low-stakes stop, especially with kids. Manage expectations and it delivers.

Day 1: La Jolla Without Wasting It

The key to La Jolla is sequencing. Get it right and it’s one of the best days you’ll have.

We started at PopUp Bagels. They do one thing: hot bagels, straight from the oven, and they nail it. Fast, simple, and the right fuel for the morning.

From there, we headed straight to the Ho Chi Minh Trail (also known as the Saigon Trail).

It’s one of those hikes that feels more adventurous than it actually is, with ropes, a narrow canyon, a little scrambling. It has that “nobody knows about this” energy without requiring any technical skill. Turn it into a loop by climbing back via the road; worth it.

The Mushroom House: You’ll hear about it. Skip it.

Better-looking online than in real life and not worth wasting your time, even though its near the bottom (south end) of this trail.

Lunch was at Jeff’s Beach Burgers; simple, fast, and ideal post-hike.

Then we spent the afternoon at La Jolla Shores, our best true beach day of the entire trip. Wide, swimmable, and super enjoyable.

La Jolla Cove ranked #5 Best Beach in the U.S. , and while the Cove is beautiful to photograph, it absolutely stinks (literally) while La Jolla Shores is where you actually swim.

End the afternoon aiming for the sea caves at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, but here’s the key: the caves are only accessible at low tide.

Check conditions in advance. Ours didn’t line up, so I shot what I could from above and moved on.

Dinner: I’d skip Bernini’s Bistro. Great atmosphere, but we were served still frozen meatballs. Tough combination to recover from.

Day 2: The Unexpected Highlights

Morning: Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography.

If you’re coming from Northern California, yes, you’ll compare it to Monterey Bay Aquarium, and yes, it’s smaller. But it earns its keep in different ways: the touch tide pools, the ocean views, and (genuinely) featuring the smallest penguin species. It’s a different kind of experience, and a better one than I expected.

From there, we headed to the Torrey Pines Gliderport.

Watching paragliders launch off the cliffs while eating surprisingly cheap, good food was one of those unplanned moments that stayed with us. Put this on your list.

On the way back towards another beach afternoon at La Jolla Shores, we stopped at the Sea Cliff Coastal Bluff Trail, which is renown for sea lavender and overlooking Torrey Pines State Beach while the Pacific Surfliner rolls by.

Easy hike; must see views.

Dinner: We stopped at The Taco Stand in La Jolla. One of the longest lines of the trip, and still worth it.

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Day 3: The Split Day

The kids and my wife went to the San Diego Zoo (one of the best zoos in the world for a reason). I went the opposite direction entirely.

At 5am, I was driving toward Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, the largest state park in California, at 600,000 acres. Within two hours, I’d gone from coastal cliffs to total desert silence.

I hit a ‘The Slot’ canyon at sunrise and had it completely to myself. No crowds or noise; just that specific feeling you only get when you realize you’re genuinely the only person out there.

From there, I took the longish drive out toward the mud caves. One of the best hidden gems I’ve found in months.

You’re navigating through cave systems carved entirely from compacted mud. Bring a high-clearance vehicle, a headlamp, and a helmet if you have one.

On the way back, it logistically made sense to check out the Desert View Tower near the In-Ko-Pah Gorge.

A quirky roadside stop with hand carved rock formations and more character than most “must-see” spots on any list. Worth the pull-off.

Back in San Diego with time to spare before reuniting with my family, I turned the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge into a full loop through Maple Canyon.

Build this into a future San Diego trip.

I also stopped at Harper’s Topiary Garden. You can skip it. Another Instagram-better-than-real-life stop.

The one place I genuinely wish we’d built more time into: Balboa Park. The rose garden, the architecture, the Botanical Building, the museums…it deserved a half-day, not a walkthrough. Put this on your priority list if you’re extending the trip.

The Exit Day: Del Mar to Carlsbad

Don’t blow your last morning rushing home. We stopped in Del Mar for a delicious breakfast at The Cottage before one final stop: The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch.

The property spans over 50 acres with nearly 80 million flowers at peak bloom, typically open from early March through early May. If you’re catching it in season, this is a real stop, not just a photo op, especially with kids. It’s more developed than you might expect, in a good way.

Your Optimized San Diego County Route

Day 0 – En route to San Diego County: Link to Google Map

Day 1 – La Jolla Loop: Google Map Link

Day 2 – La Jolla → Torrey Pines → La Jolla: Google Map Link

Day 3 – Desert + City Split: Google Map Link

Exit Day – Del Mar → Carlsbad: Google Map Link

The Bottom Line

San Diego County isn’t hard. But doing it right takes intention. Build your days around flow, not proximity on a map. And at least once, wake up at 5am and drive the other direction.

That’s the version of this trip that goes from “that was nice” to “That was one of the best trips we’ve done.” You can find all of the trail links and GPS tracks on my California Map (plus hundreds of others across the state)!

For my paid subscribers, I have all the GPS tracks and AllTrails links below.

As always, I hope to see you on the trails.

- Dan
📍 Instagram | TikTok | Facebook

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It’s April 1st, so it means fresh trail ideas…

If you are on Instagram, you might have seen my ‘Breaking News: new trail rules for 2026’ and hopefully got a good laugh. Jokes aside, let me start off by saying thank you for subscribing to this newsletter; incredible to officially hit 15,000 of you, and is great motivation to keep the trails and hiking tips coming.

Which leads me to my content. If you’ve been following along lately, you’ve probably noticed something: I’ve been talking a lot more about how to hike, not just where to go.

Things like:

• Why experienced hikers get lost

• How to protect your knees on descents

• And the hidden danger of hiking most people don’t think about until it’s too late

The response continues to be amazing. I’m seeing more DMs, more thoughtful questions, and more people saying, “I wish I knew this earlier.” So I’m continuing to lean into it. April is the perfect example of why. It’s one of the best months of the year for waterfalls in California…and it’s also when something else ramps up:

⚠️ Rattlesnake Season Is Back

As temperatures consistently push into the 70s, and more recently here in the Bay Area, the 90s, rattlesnakes come out of brumation. The good news: they’re not aggressive, and they are actually quite predictable. Most bites happen because of one simple mistake: stepping where you can’t see (logs, rocks, tall grass, etc).

A few snake safety tips for this spring:

• Don’t step blindly over obstacles

• Give space if you hear a rattle (they’re doing you a favor)

• Keep dogs close and on leash

Here are a few other ways I feel confident while hiking in rattlesnake territory:

• Hiking poles can create ground vibration, and snakes feel vibration way better than they see you. Which is why I bring hiking poles even on flat surfaces

• If you’re hiking in snake prone areas, exposed ankles are your weak spot. Wear long pants even as it heats up (good SPF too!). Gaiters if you want even more protection

If you do bump into a rattlesnake (yes, last year, I had a streak of doing so during 6 straight hikes), don’t panic or jump. Simply stop, locate, and back away slowly.

A quick reminder: this blog is remains community supported. If you’ve found value in these guides, stories, or trail insights, consider becoming a paid subscriber. It directly supports the miles, scouting, and research that go into keeping these guides accurate and actually useful.

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Alright, now let’s get into why April might be one of the most underrated hiking month in California: more waterfalls!

1. Bassi Falls (Pollock Pines)

Trail: Bassi Falls Trail
Distance: ~1.5 miles RT (or ~4 miles via new trail)
Elevation Gain: 450 ft
Dog Friendly: Yes (but use caution near water)
Best Time: Late April – May
Trail Map: AllTrails Link

There are waterfalls that are pretty, and then there are waterfalls that feel like raw force. Bassi Falls in early April is the second one.

At peak snowmelt, Bassi Creek drops about 110 feet over a wide granite face, splitting and crashing through boulders in a way that feels chaotic and loud in the best way possible.

Getting there

From Highway 50, you head up Ice House Road toward Union Valley Reservoir, then take a rough dirt road (12N32A) to the trailhead.

High clearance helps, but regular cars make it. If the road isn’t open yet, expect to add mileage (when I went in March it was scheduled to open on March 31st).

A bonus feature

About halfway in (~1.1 miles on the newer trail), you’ll pass Lower Bassi Falls.

It’s only ~18 feet, but wide, clean, and honestly one of those spots people walk right past without realizing it’s there. It does require a scramble down to view at the bottom, but can also be seen well from the top.

The main event is still ahead.

A few things to know

• This is entirely seasonal; in the summer Bassi Falls turns this into a trickle

• The trail becomes less defined across granite near the falls. To be honest I lost the trail numerous times but used a GPS to stay on track.

• There’s a route to the top…but this is where people get stupid.

If you slip above the falls, there’s no recovery. Just don’t.

When to go

Late afternoon into sunset is best as the morning light works against you.

2. Dutch Creek Falls + Poppy Fields (Coloma)

Trail: Dutch Creek Trail
Distance: ~1.8 miles RT
Elevation Gain: ~500 ft
Dog Friendly: Yes
Best Time: Feb – April
Trail Map: AllTrails Link; Follow my tracks (reverse order) for the best way to access the second Dutch Creek Falls.

This is one of those hikes that overdelivers. You think you’re going to see a waterfall, and you end up seeing multiple, and as a bonus in April, it’s one of the better early-season wildflower displays in the region.

The experience

The trail follows Dutch Creek through a wooded canyon, gradually pulling you closer to the sound of water. About ¾ of a mile in, you hit the first drop (~24 ft). Most people think that’s it. Including me the first time.

Keep going and the canyon opens up to a junction where:

• Johntown Creek drops ~100 ft

• Dutch Creek drops ~60 ft

Stacked in one location. It’s one of the more visually rewarding waterfall clusters for the effort, but to be clear, it is VERY challenging to successfully get to the second Dutch Creek Falls. I tried going beyond the Johntown Creek Viewing area, and while there are some poppy fields, the poison oak and effort to get through overgrown trail are not worth it. I am still paying the price from getting you these pictures :(

The friction (and why it stays uncrowded)

There’s no parking at the trailhead. You need to:

• Park near the bridge on Mt. Murphy Rd

• Pay the $8 state park fee

April bonus

Murphy Mountain above the canyon fills with poppies. This is one of those rare overlaps where you get waterfalls + wildflowers + manageable distance

Hazards

• Poison oak everywhere, especially if you continue up past the first waterfall.

• Steep, slippery terrain near the falls. You can see the rope assist for the smaller drop; it’s scrambling and narrow terrain to reach the larger drops.

Don’t risk it if you’re uncomfortable or inexperienced.

3. North Fork Big Silver Creek Falls (Backcountry Route)

Trail: Unofficial / Route finding required
Distance: ~5.4 miles RT; 7 miles when the main road is closed (my route)
Elevation Gain: ~1300 ft
Dog Friendly: Not recommended
Best Time: May – early July
Trail Map: Paid subscribers only

This is not a hike. This is an attempt. The goal: a 251-foot cascade hidden deep in the forest off Ice House Road.

The reality: Some roads blocked by downed trees, constant rerouting and bushwhacking through manzanita, a creek crossing on a fallen log, and my GPS doing most of the work.

We got close. Within about 0.3 miles of the falls. But between my knee and my buddy’s calf, it was time to make the call.

And that’s the part people don’t talk about enough. Turning around isn’t failure.
It’s judgment. I sent the drone up to confirm it, and there it was, just a short distance from where we stopped.

A full 251-foot cascade ripping down the mountain, that we didn’t make it to this time. But we found it. And many other smaller cascades along the way. And we we’ll be sure to come back.

This trail is not available on AllTrails, and given the remote nature, dangers, and challenges required, GPS tracks are only available for paid subscribers via my California map.

Here’s a preview of what you’d have to navigate:

Final Thoughts

All three of these hikes have something in common: They reward timing.

• Bassi Falls only works during peak snowmelt

• Dutch Creek only shines during wet months

• Big Silver Creek requires both access and conditions

Miss the window, and they’re average. Hit it right, and they’re unforgettable.

If you want full maps to all these hikes, they’re available to paid subscribers on my California Map. And if you want more hiking tips folded into these newsletters, tell me…I’m listening.

See you out on the trail!
Dan
📍 Instagram | TikTok | Facebook

For the past 23 consecutive months, I’ve shown up here with the same rhythm. Five new trails, real world logistics, and the insider scoop so you have the best experience out on the trail.

With 115 trails shared (more if you count mid-month visitor guides), this newsletter has been about helping you get outside smarter and with more confidence. And underneath it all, the mission has stayed consistent: make the outdoors feel more accessible, more informed, and more welcoming for everyone.

But something happened in February, once I posted a simple trail etiquette video. It sparked thousands of comments and stories shared. The reaction pattern that told me we hit a nerve that runs deeper than hiking tips. If you missed the original Facebook post, you can see it here, and the Instagram reel here.

What started as a practical conversation about trail behavior quickly became something else for me. It was a window into how differently men and women experience the outdoors.

With International Women’s Day around the corner, it feels like the right time to zoom out and talk about why this topic matters, and what we can actually do about it.

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First, Let’s Address the Elephant on the Trail

Yes, I’m aware of an obvious question: “Why is a middle aged white guy talking about women’s safety?”

Fair question. Here’s my answer:

Because the outdoors is best when the people who feel safest help make it safer for the people who don’t. I spend hundreds of hours a year on hiking trails with all different kinds of terrain, distances, and degrees of difficulty. I can hear the conversations at trailheads. I read the DMs that don’t make it into public comment sections. And when thousands of women consistently say some version of:

“I love hiking… but I’m always a little on edge when I’m alone.” That’s a signal, not noise.

To be clear, I’m not speaking for women. I’m listening to what’s already being said and making sure the broader hiking community actually hears it too.

What the Data Actually Shows

Let’s ground this in facts. Multiple outdoor participation and safety studies point to a consistent pattern:

• Women report significantly higher concern about personal safety when recreating outdoors alone.

• Surveys from groups like the Outdoor Industry Association and various park agencies have found women are far more likely than men to modify behavior (time of day, route choice, whether they hike solo at all) due to safety concerns.

• Research on outdoor recreation constraints repeatedly shows fear of harassment or assault is a disproportionately cited barrier for women compared to men.

The broader context matters too. According to national crime data and victimization surveys in the U.S.:

• Women are significantly more likely than men to experience sexual violence in their lifetime.

• A large majority of perpetrators in these cases are male.

The backcountry is statistically safer than many urban environments. But human behavior isn’t driven by raw statistics alone. Women are doing constant mental math on the trail, and it’s driven by an equation with three factors:

1. Perceived risk

2. Lived experience

3. Social reality

Why the Comments Section Likely Blew Up

If you scroll through the reactions on my posts (at least the ones that I left up, I deleted many that were extremely racist or dangerous), you’ll see a pattern. There were many thoughtful and supportive responses (regardless of gender). And then yes, there were some spicy takes. The spicy comments usually fell into one of three buckets:

1. “I’ve never seen this happen.”

Which may be true, but perhaps only for you. Absence of personal experience isn’t proof of absence. Many women are managing situations quietly: changing pace, altering routes, pretending to be on the phone, avoiding eye contact. If you’re not looking for it, you may not see it.

2. “The trail is already safe.”

Relative to many environments? Often yes. Equally comfortable for everyone? Not always. Safety is a spectrum of comfort, predictability, and control.

3. “Why single out men?”

Behavior change works best when the group with the most influence participates. Most men on the trail are good people, and I like to consider myself one of those. Small adjustments by the majority can meaningfully improve the experience for the minority who feel less at ease.

Practical Safety Tips for Solo Women Hikers

If you’re a woman who enjoys solo hiking, here are some strategies I would suggest. This list is about stacking the odds in your favor, not about generating fear.

Before you go

• Share your planned route and return time with someone you trust

• Download offline maps, and check recent trail reports for unusual activity or closures (this is something I do for trail conditions anyway)

• Start earlier in the day when trails are more populated

On the trail

• Keep at least one ear free if using headphones

• Trust your instincts and maintain awareness at trail junctions / parking areas

• Carry basic safety tools you know how to use (whistle, headlamp, etc.)

At the trailhead

• Park in visible, well lit areas

• Take a quick mental note of who else is around

• Avoid leaving obvious “I’m solo for hours” signals in plain sight

Repeating: this is about practical risk management in the real world we actually have to deal with.

Where Men Can Make a Big Difference

This is the part that triggered the strongest reactions. If you’re a guy on the trail, small shifts go a long way:

• Give a little extra space when passing a solo hiker

• Announce yourself clearly and calmly when approaching from behind

• Avoid pacing directly behind someone for long stretches

• Read the room: if someone seems uneasy, a little distance is free and costs nothing

This Is Not a Gender War

This conversation isn’t fringe, it’s unfortunately simmering under the surface, often curtained due to fear that comment trolls take over, and it therefore rarely gets addressed in a practical, noninflammatory way.

And the internet loves turning nuanced conversations into team sports. That’s not what this is. My goal is simple: to get more people feeling confident outside.

If women feel more comfortable hiking solo, trail usage increases, community grows, stewardship improves, and outdoor participation expands. That’s a win for anyone who cares about public lands.

March Adventure Ideas (Because You Know I Can’t Help Myself)

If you’re planning early spring miles, this is prime window in California. Two guides from the archive that are dialed for right now:

Joshua Tree deep dive

Kid-friendly Yosemite guide

If March (or April) trips are on your radar, both are amazing places to go.

One Personal Note to Close

I think about how women experience trails differently now than I did a decade ago. Part of that is miles logged and part of it is conversations heard. But another part is even more simple: I have a daughter who is growing up fast and already loves being outside.

One day she’s going to want to hit trails on her own. When that day comes, I don’t expect the world to be perfect. But I’m hopeful the outdoor community can be a little more aware, a little more thoughtful, and a little more dialed in than is now. If this conversation nudges the needle in that direction, it was worth having.

As always, I hope to see you on the trails.

Share California Outdoors (Outdoor Wise Living)

- Dan
📍 Instagram | TikTok | Facebook

If you follow me on Instagram or Facebook, you’ve probably noticed a bit of a shift in my recent content. Alongside trail guides, I’ve been sharing hiking tips I genuinely wish I knew before I started. These address topics like what to do if you’re lost (and how to avoid it), how to help prevent sore knees, and most recently, solving for the hidden danger most hikers don’t prepare for.

The response has been incredible. The engagement, the thoughtful comments, the DMs, it’s been motivating in a different way than just showing another beautiful place.

It’s got me wondering: should I start weaving hiking tips into this newsletter as well?
If you’ve got thoughts, drop them in the comments; I actually read them.

Before we get into February trail recommendations, a quick reminder and a genuine thank you:

This blog is ad-free and community supported. If you’ve found value in these trail guides, stories, or safety insights, please consider a paid subscription. It directly supports the time, research, and miles that go into keeping these guides accurate, recently trekked, and helps keep the trail content coming.

Alright. Let’s get waterfalling.

1. Codornices Creek Waterfall (Berkeley)

Trail: Codornices Park → Codornices Creek Falls
Distance: ~0.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~150 ft
Dog Friendly: Not on private property
Best After: Recent rain
Trail Map: On my California map (paid subscribers)

Tucked into the hillside neighborhoods of North Berkeley is a place that feels wildly out of context, but in the best possible way.

Codornices Park is best known for its concrete hill slide and picnic areas. But just beyond the playground, past the wooden trolley, a subtle set of stairs leads you somewhere entirely different.

Two staircases sit behind the play area; take the left one. Continue left at the top. Then look for a winding concrete staircase on your right.

Follow it upward, but don’t go all the way. About twenty feet past the first lamppost, you’ll see a small gate on the left marked Private Property (pictured below):

Here’s the important part: public access is explicitly allowed. You’re welcome here, as long as you’re respectful.

Step through the gate, veer left at the junction, and follow your ears.

Suddenly, the neighborhood disappears. You’re in a narrow, fern-lined canyon, and Codornices Creek drops roughly 40 feet into a shaded ravine that feels more jungle than Berkeley. Many longtime residents have no idea this waterfall exists.

A few things to know:

• This waterfall is best during the rainy months

• The trail gets muddy and slick

• The canyon drops sharply and the path is narrow

• Not suitable for small children

You are, technically, moving through someone’s backyard. Be a good guest. Leave no trace. This place survives because people respect it.

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2. Peter Creek Falls (Long Ridge, Palo Alto Area)

Trail: Long Ridge Open Space → Peter Creek
Distance: ~3.7 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~600 ft
Dog Friendly: No
Best After: Significant rainfall
Trail Map: Paid subscribers only (due to hazards and cliff slope). This AllTrails map gets you close.

This is not a casual waterfall hike, and that’s exactly why it’s special.

Peter Creek Falls hides within Long Ridge Open Space, and while most of the hike is straightforward, the final half mile is unmaintained and demands attention. This isn’t the kind of place you stumble into by accident.

The upper portion of the hike moves through classic Peninsula terrain: oak woodland, open ridge views, and quiet stretches where you might not see anyone else.

Then the trail narrows, the sound of water grows louder, and the character of the hike changes.

Standing at the top of the falls is a treat itself; however, the view of the waterfall is obstructed:

Accessing the lower waterfall area involves a steep, exposed scramble.

There are real hazards here:

• Loose footing

• Slippery conditions after rain

• Steep dropoffs with narrow trails

• No official trail markings (you’re just following the creek down the slope)

This is not a place to push comfort zones blindly. And to be clear, I don’t recommend accessing the bottom portion unless you’re experienced, conditions are right, and you’re comfortable turning around if something feels off.

That said, the waterfall itself is absolutely worth the effort, and hopefully my pictures do it justice.

After sustained rain, Peter Creek comes alive, dropping into a shaded gorge that feels far more remote than its proximity to Silicon Valley suggests. The cascade is powerful, loud, and fleeting. Miss the timing and it’s underwhelming. Nail it, and it’s unforgettable.

Because of the hazards and the unmaintained nature of the final section, detailed navigation lives behind the paywall and on my California Map. Safety isn’t optional here.

3. Kelham Beach & Surprise Falls (Point Reyes)

Trail: Bear Valley Trail → Coast Trail → Kelham Beach
Distance: ~11.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~1,000 ft
Dog Friendly: No
Best After: Heavy rain + low tide
Trailhead: Bear Valley Visitor Center

Point Reyes is famous for its coastline, but even here, some waterfalls manage to stay under the radar.

This hike begins at the Bear Valley Visitor Center and follows the wide, gently graded Bear Valley Trail.

Bikes and horses are allowed for the first few miles (no dogs), and cyclists can ride roughly 3.25 miles before reaching a bike rack where walking becomes mandatory. A caution sign is up warning of storm damaged trail ahead.

At ~4 miles, you’ll pass the Wildcat Camp junction. At ~5 miles, you cross Kelham Creek on a bridge. Just after that, near a large eucalyptus tree, a side trail drops toward Kelham Beach.

This final descent is storm damaged but not officially closed, and it requires a short (~10 ft) scramble. Take your time here.

At the bottom, Kelham Creek spills directly onto the beach in a lovely 25-foot cascade. It’s subtle, peaceful, and best seen after rain, when the creek actually has some power behind it.

But don’t stop here. From Kelham Creek, look south. Less than a half a mile down the beach, another waterfall drops straight into the Pacific.

A few blogs call this Surprise Falls, and while the name might be debatable, the waterfall isn’t. At roughly 35-45 feet, it’s larger and more dramatic than Kelham Falls, and it flows directly into the ocean.

A few critical notes:

• You need a low tide to access it safely

• Waves can and will crash against the rocks

• Photographing it at high tide is sketchy at best

• There’s a small cave beneath the falls, only visible at low tide

This is one of many waterfalls in California that drop into the Pacific, not just the usual two (Alamere and McWay) most people talk about. But like all of them, timing is everything. Heavy rain. Proper tide. Respect for the ocean.

When it all lines up, it’s spectacular.

Final Thoughts

All three of these waterfalls share something in common: they demand patience and timing. You don’t just show up and expect magic. You wait for rain. You check conditions. You accept that sometimes, the best decision is to turn around.

That’s part of the reward.

If you want full maps to all these hikes, they’re available to paid subscribers on my California Map. And if you want more hiking tips folded into these newsletters, tell me…I’m listening.

See you out on the trail!
Dan
📍 Instagram | TikTok | Facebook

California Runs on a Clock

California doesn’t reward urgency. It rewards timing.

You can hike year-round here and still miss the moments when places feel alive: when water moves with intent, hills glow instead of crunch, and the landscape feels like it’s meeting you halfway.

From January through May, the state quietly cycles through its best versions of itself. Not all at once. Not loudly. But deliberately.

This isn’t a “best hikes” list (although some of these hidden gems certainly could be candidates for such a list). It’s a when-to-go list. Five months. Five trails. Each chosen not just for beauty, but for the narrow window when it’s truly worth being there.

If you only lace up once a month in early 2026, this is the order I’d follow.

And a quick reminder to subscribe to support this blog and make sure you don’t miss out on more of the best of California:

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January: Alamere Falls via Coast Trail (Palomarin Trailhead)

The long way is the point

January is when Alamere Falls earns its reputation.

This is the hike people talk about all year, and then often completely underestimate. Starting from the Palomarin Trailhead, the Coast Trail winds through coastal scrub, open bluffs, and a chain of quiet lakes before finally delivering one of California’s most dramatic sights: a waterfall spilling directly into the Pacific Ocean.

Alamere is often mislabeled as one of only two tidefalls in the state. That’s not true. I’ve personally documented six other tidefalls in and around Point Reyes, with three more plotted out to hunt down in 2026. The difference is that Alamere is accessible, reliable, and hits hardest in winter, when rain-fed flow turns it from a trickle into a full coastal spectacle.

You’ll hear about a “shortcut” on this hike, an unofficial route that cuts off roughly three miles. Don’t take it. It’s not sanctioned, it’s not maintained, and it’s responsible for regular rescues, injuries, and wasted National Park Service resources. The cliffs crumble, poison oak thrives, and people get cliffed out far more often than social media suggests.

The long way isn’t just safer, it’s better. The lakes, the Farallon Islands on a clear day, the slow reveal of the coast… that’s the experience. The waterfall is the finale, not the whole show.

January brings fewer crowds, stronger flow, king tides, and moody coastal light that makes the entire effort feel justified.

Trail Details

• Distance: 13.8 miles

• Elevation Gain: 1,784 ft

• Estimated Time: 6–6.5 hours

• Route Type: Out & back

• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

• Location: Point Reyes National Seashore (Marin County)

• Trailhead: Palomarin Trailhead (end of Mesa Road, near Bolinas). Note: I was there two days ago (12/30), and the last mile of unpaved road has gotten a little worse, however, if you go slow, a high clearance vehicle is not required.

• AllTrails: Alamere Falls via Coast Trail

• Dog Friendly: ❌ No dogs

• Notes:

  • Arrive early on weekends; parking fills fast

  • Time for a low tide (negative tide is even better).

  • Do not attempt the unofficial Alamere Falls Trail (eroding cliffs, poison oak, ticks)

Subscriber note: additional Point Reyes tidefalls are pinned on my paid map under Secret Spot and Waterfall filters. Desktop access unlocks pinned notes with GPS tracks.

February: Calla Lily Valley (Big Sur)

A bloom that feels earned, not advertised

February in Big Sur holds a quiet miracle. For a short stretch, Calla Lily Valley comes alive, white lilies rising from impossibly green grass, tucked into a coastal fold that feels almost protected from the rest of the world.

There’s no guarantee when you’ll hit it right. Some years the bloom peaks early, others late. That uncertainty keeps this place sacred. It’s a reminder that the best moments in nature aren’t permanent. They’re conditional.

Trail Details

• Distance: 0.8 mile out & back

• Elevation Gain: Minimal, however, there are stairs

• Difficulty: Easy

• Location: Big Sur coast

• AllTrails: Calla Lily Valley Trail

• Dog Friendly: ❌ No dogs

• Notes: Stay on trail; the lilies are fragile and protected

March: Phantom Falls (North Table Mountain)

The waterfall that disappears if you blink

Most of the year, Phantom Falls is just a cliff. In March, it’s a spectacle. After heavy rain, water pours over the volcanic basalt of North Table Mountain, transforming an otherwise dry plateau into one of Northern California’s most dramatic waterfall displays.

The approach feels deceptively calm, with rolling grasslands, open sky. Then the land breaks open, and the falls announce themselves with force.

This is a reminder hike: a reminder that timing can turn something ordinary into something unforgettable.

Miss the window, and there’s nothing left to see.

Trail Details

• Distance: ~4.5 miles out & back, however I recommend the longer route that allows you to see Hollow Falls, Ravine Falls, and more. Paid subscribers get access to 3 other lesser known but equally (or more) spectacular waterfalls via my California Map.

• Elevation Gain: ~400 ft

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Location: Oroville / Butte County

• AllTrails: Phantom Falls Trail or Longer route.

• Dog Friendly: Dogs on leash

• Notes: Stay well back from cliff edges; pay fee online in advance of going.

April: Dutch Creek Falls (Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park)

Wildflowers, water, and a quieter side of Gold Country

April is when Gold Country surprises people. Most expect dusty foothills and summer heat. Instead, Dutch Creek Falls delivers green slopes, flowing water, and one of the most underrated poppy displays of the season.

The trail itself is short but honest. It drops quickly, threads through oak woodland, and finishes at a seasonal waterfall that hits hardest after winter rain. The route is a bit overgrown in places, and a few rope-assisted sections help with the steeper downhill portions, giving the hike just enough edge to feel earned.

This isn’t a solitude hike, especially on weekends, but it is less trafficked than many nearby waterfall trails, and the payoff-to-effort ratio is excellent. The real star, though, is the timing. Catch this trail in April and you get water and wildflowers before the hills turn gold for a very different reason.

This is spring in the foothills, done right.

Trail Details

• Distance: 1.4 miles

• Elevation Gain: 272 ft

• Route Type: Out & back

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Location: Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park (Coloma, CA)

• AllTrails: Dutch Creek Falls Trail

• Dog Friendly: Dogs on leash

• Notes: Trail can be overgrown; long pants recommended. Ropes assist on steeper downhill sections; not required to see the poppy display. Parking in the museum lot requires a fee.

May: Big Pine Creek Lake Trail (Eastern Sierra)

When winter finally loosens its grip

May in the Eastern Sierra feels like a negotiation between seasons. The Big Pine Creek Lake Trail climbs into a basin of turquoise lakes, granite walls, and lingering snowfields. Ice still clings to the shoreline. Peaks remain sharp and white. But the trail is open, the sun is higher, and access returns.

This is where California expands. Each lake feels earned. Each switchback opens more space, more quiet, more perspective. It’s a hike that reminds you why the Sierra has such a gravitational pull; once you experience it like this, summer crowds feel optional.

Trail Details

• Distance: ~12 miles out and back to Second Lake (longer if continuing)

• Elevation Gain: ~4,000 ft

• Difficulty: Hard

• Location: Inyo National Forest

• AllTrails: Big Pine Creek North Fork Trail

• Dog Friendly: Dogs on leash

• Notes: Snow possible; check conditions before going. Backpacking permit required.

Final Thought: Start 2026 the Right Way

There’s something powerful about how a year begins. Not the resolutions we forget by February, but the rhythms we choose to return to. Getting outside once a month. Watching the landscape change instead of rushing past it. Letting effort, timing, and curiosity shape the year instead of noise.

These five hikes are all about starting well. If someone in your life has been saying “we should hike more this year,” send them this. Pick a month. Put it on the calendar. Let the trail do the rest.

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California has a way of meeting you where you are, especially when you give it the space to unfold slowly. And this January-to-May window is one of the best invitations the state offers.

I’ve got a lot more coming as 2026 unfolds: new trail discoveries, seasonal timing notes, and a few surprises I’ve been sitting on for a while. I can’t wait to share them with you out there, one well timed hike at a time.

Hope to see you on the trail - be sure to drop a comment to let me know which one in this list looks most appealing! And for those looking for a bit more, be sure to checkout my California Map.

Dan
📍 Instagram | TikTok | Facebook

There’s a moment every December, usually right after I “accidentally” go back for seconds, that I remember:

“Oh yeah… this is one of the reasons why I hike.”

The holidays are one of my favorite times of year. Family in town, too many cookies on the counter, kids racing around the house in brand-new socks on slick wood floors (a sport in itself). It’s loud and messy and wonderful… and also a lot of calories.

Before we dive into the trails, I want to pause and say thank you.
This community has grown to well over 11,000 email subscribers and, somehow, many of you have decided my work is worth paying for. That number still blows my mind. Every map pin, trail guide, 4 a.m. alarm, and long drive to a remote trailhead is possible because you’re here, reading, sharing, and sometimes dragging your own friends and families onto the trail.

Which leads me to holiday gifting: if you’re looking for a unique, inexpensive gift for a California explorer in your life, a paid subscription is a pretty fun one: they get insider trail guides and maps, and you get the satisfaction of knowing you helped fuel the next round of hidden gems.

Just starting your journey? Subscribe to this blog for more of the best of the west:

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Now, let’s talk about those extra helpings.

This month’s theme: hikes that help you work off what you ate. I’ve added a rough “turkey level” for each one, based on distance, elevation, and about how many calories you’re likely to burn:

• 🦃 = 1 Turkey: Light stroll. For people who “don’t really do appetizers.”

• 🦃🦃 = 2 Turkeys: Moderate effort. For those who went big on stuffing.

• 🦃🦃🦃 = 3 Turkeys: You found the fried mozzarella sticks.

• 🦃🦃🦃🦃 = 4 Turkeys: You also went back for extra pie.

• ☠️🦃🦃🦃🦃 = Extreme Turkey: Beer, brats, and zero self-control.

All calorie estimates are ballpark numbers: your mileage (and metabolism) may vary.

1. Stream Trail, Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park

Oakland – “Steam” trail, but make it actually “Stream”
Stats (approx): 3 miles round trip, ~200 ft elevation, ~400 calories
Turkey Level: 🦃 (1 turkey, for the ‘appetizer skippers’) | Alltrails: link

If there’s a “holiday hike” I return to over and over, it’s Stream Trail in Dr. Aurelia Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park in Oakland. The name alone is a seasonal sorting hat, half the internet calls it “Steam Trail.” It’s not. It’s Stream Trail. There is no steam room; just the soft sound of water and wind sliding through redwood needles.

Starting from the Canyon Meadow staging area, the trail eases you into the forest along a nearly flat, creekside path. On rainy days, this canyon feels like you’ve stepped into a green tunnel. Water beads on fern fronds, the packed dirt darkens, and everything smells like wet earth and cedar. It’s the hiking equivalent of a weighted blanket.

This is a trail I’ve:

• Stretched into a longer loop on my own, climbing out onto East Ridge when I’ve needed more miles.

• Walked with my kids on drizzly afternoons when the playgrounds were mud pits but everyone needed to move.

• Shared with my parents, who love redwoods but appreciate a path that lets them look up, not down at every step. (Hi, Mom and Dad. Yes, you’re in the newsletter)

The Ladybug Bonus

If you time it right, there’s a little bit of magic tucked along this trail: wintering ladybugs. From roughly late fall into winter, thousands of ladybugs cluster along the Stream Trail corridor, especially between the junctions with Prince and Eucalyptus Trails.

From Canyon Meadow, it’s about 1.5 miles of easy walking before you hit the prime ladybug zone. Look for:

• Fence posts absolutely carpeted in red;

• Clumps of ladybugs hanging off grasses and low branches;

• An interpretive panel that explains what they’re doing (spoiler: they’re not just here for the holiday lights).

This stretch is paved for a good portion, dog-friendly (on leash), stroller-doable, and about as accessible as “holiday hiking” gets.

If you want to keep it mellow, turn around near the ladybugs and call it a 3-mile, ~400 calorie wander. Perfect for the folks who somehow managed to dodge the appetizer table and are feeling smug about it.

2. Fickle Hill Grade #9 Loop – Arcata Community Forest

Arcata – Redwoods, moss, and a choose-your-own-adventure playground
Stats (approx): 4.2 miles, ~850 ft elevation, ~600 calories
Turkey Level: 🦃🦃 (2 turkeys – stuffing squad) | Alltrails: link

If Stream Trail is a gentle lullaby, Arcata Community Forest is the full band.

High above downtown Arcata, a maze of numbered trails weaves through thick, rain-soaked redwoods, moss-covered stumps, and damp singletrack that feels pulled straight from a Pacific Northwest daydream. This isn’t one single “destination” trail; it’s an entire network, and you can build loops like you’re stacking blocks.

For this holiday calorie-burn edition, I’m going with a favorite combo anchored on Fickle Hill Grade #9, looping with trails like Big Rock #4 and Meadow #3 for about 4 miles and 850 feet of gain.

From the moment you leave the trailhead, you’re in it: Redwood trunks march up the hillside, ferns pour down the slopes like green waterfalls, and the air stays cool and wet even when town is mild. The trail rolls and twists as it climbs, giving you short, punchy sections of elevation that add up fast but never feel brutal.

Bonus Feature Central

This forest is secretly three parks in one:

• Mountain bike playground: Fickle Hill #9 was practically built for riders, with a downhill flow that makes you wish you’d brought your bike.

• Disc golf course: Just outside the forest proper, you’ve got baskets tucked among trees, making it easy to pair a hike and a round if your group is mixed-interest.

• Hidden carvings: Tucked off certain spurs and clearings, you’ll stumble on wooden carvings and forest “art”.

This is the perfect hike for the “I ate a mountain of stuffing but I’m not ready for full suffering yet” category. You’ll earn your 600 calories, get your heart rate up on the climbs, and still have enough energy left to wander downtown Arcata for post-hike coffee.

3. Top of the World to Car Wreck & Dripping Cave

Laguna Beach – Views, caves, and a literal car in the canyon
Stats (approx): 6–7.5 miles, 950–1,100 ft elevation, ~1,150 calories
Turkey Level: 🦃🦃🦃 (3 turkeys – mozzarella stick repenters) | Alltrails: Link

Some trails feel like a sampler platter, and this Top of the World / Car Wreck / Dripping Cave loop in Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park is exactly that, a sort of greatest hits reel of coastal SoCal hiking.

You get:

• Panoramic views from Top of the World over Laguna Beach and the Pacific.

• A shaded canyon walk with sandstone walls and scrubby chaparral.

• A stop at Dripping Cave (aka Robbers Cave), where outlaws allegedly used to hide out.

• And the surreal sight of an actual car wreck, rusting quietly in the middle of a steep hillside.

I first did this one in the heat of summer, when the sun pressed down so hard it felt like the hillside itself was radiating. The climb out near the Car Wreck Trail is where you start to bargain with the universe: “If I make it to the top without stopping, I’m never eating mozzarella sticks again.” (Narrator: he will absolutely eat mozzarella sticks again.)

But here’s the catch: depending on which route map you pull, Dripping Cave might not be clearly included in your loop. Make sure to intentionally add the spur, otherwise you’ll hike right past one of the coolest features without realizing it.

This is the trail for those of you who added fried apps to your plate and now want a hike that feels like it’s actually doing something about it.

4. The Dipsea Trail – A Bay Area Classic with Pecan Pie Stakes

Marin County – Mill Valley to Stinson Beach
Stats (your version): 11.3 miles, 2,493 ft elevation, ~2,765 calories
Turkey Level: 🦃🦃🦃🦃 (4 turkeys – full pecan pie clearance) | AllTrails: Link

Hot take: it’s pee-CAN, not “pee-con,” not “pick-in,” and definitely not whatever unhinged hybrid your uncle said at the dessert table.

Pecan pie is my personal kryptonite. It’s also the reason I finally sat down and asked:
What trail would actually wipe this out?

Enter: the Dipsea Trail.

Even though I’ve mentioned Mt. Tam plenty of times, it’s kind of wild that I haven’t featured what might be the most famous Bay Area trail: the path of the Dipsea Race, America’s oldest trail race, first run in 1905 and still held annually on the second Sunday in June.

The traditional race route is about 7.4–7.5 miles from Mill Valley to Stinson Beach, but the way I tackled it this November turned it into something bigger: a kind of “back door” journey through redwoods and ridges, stretching into an 11.3-mile, 2,493-foot sufferfest in the best possible way.

When you hike the Dipsea outside of race day, you feel that history in flashes:
dirt packed by thousands of footsteps, glimpses of the Pacific that must have felt like the finish line long before runners actually reached it, and the hush of Muir Woods-adjacent canyons where the trail passes near towering redwoods.

Why This is the Pecan Pie Hike

On my November outing:

• I clocked 11.3 miles,

• Gained about 2,493 feet,

• And burned an estimated 2,765 calories in just about 4 hours of moving time (yes, I checked).

By the end, it felt like I’d erased an entire Thanksgiving: pecan pie, mashed potatoes, extra rolls, second dessert… all gone in a single, glorious slog.

This is not a casual family stroll. This is the hike you choose when you want to end the year with a bang; and when you know exactly how much you ate.

5. Murietta Falls via the Ohlone Wilderness - Extreme Turkey Mode

Near Livermore – A waterfall, a permit plot twist, and a whole lot of uphill
Stats (approx): 13.5 miles round trip, ~4,300 ft elevation, ~2,200+ calories
Turkey Level: ☠️🦃🦃🦃🦃 (extreme – beer, brats, and “what have I done?”) | AllTrails: Link

If your holiday plate looked like a competitive eating entry, beer, brats, gravy rivers, the works, this is the hike I’m prescribing: Murietta Falls via the Ohlone Wilderness Trail from Del Valle.

This route is one of the Bay Area’s toughest day hikes: long, exposed, and unrelenting, with steep climbs that seem to go on forever… and then a bit more after that. The payoff is a rare, seasonal waterfall tucked deep into the backcountry, usually flowing strongest in late winter and early spring after storms.

But the big news isn’t just the waterfall anymore, it’s the permit.

Big News: The Day-Use Permit is Gone

For years, hiking the Ohlone Wilderness required a special Ohlone permit, a paper map/permit combo that cost a few bucks and had to be carried with you on trail. It was the only day-use trail in the East Bay Regional Park system with its own access fee. Now, that’s changed.

The East Bay Regional Park District recently announced that:

• Day hikers no longer need a permit to access the Ohlone Wilderness Trail.

• The paper permit has been discontinued as a way to improve access and recognize that hiking and walking trails are core park resources, not premium add-ons.

• Overnight backpacking reservations and fees still apply, so if you’re camping, you still book sites as usual.

It’s a small policy change, but a big signal: opening up one of the region’s most spectacular wilderness routes to more people without the extra friction.

What the Hike is Actually Like

From Lake Del Valle, the trail heads out along rolling ranchland, grazing cattle, and wide-open views. This is a landscape of:

• Exposed ridgelines baked by sun,

• Wind-carved hills that go from golden to green depending on the season,

• And a sense of distance that feels more like a mini-Sierra than a quick drive from the Bay.

The Murietta Falls turnoff dives down into a steep canyon where the waterfall hides. When it’s running, water pours down a dark rock face, a rare sight in the East Bay’s mostly seasonal creek country.

Round trip, you’re looking at roughly:

• 13.5 miles,

• A bit north of 4,300 feet of elevation,

• And something in the neighborhood of 2,200+ calories burned, depending on your pace and pack weight.

This is the “empty the tank” holiday hike. Your legs will feel it. Your core will feel it. Your arms will feel it from using trekking poles or bracing yourself on steep grades.

If you want one hike to mentally file away as “my year-end reset,” make it this one.

Wrapping Up: Holiday Gratitude & Gifting an Adventure

I’ll leave you with this:

Every time I hit “send” on one of these monthly guides, I’m very aware that you could be anywhere else on the internet. The fact that you choose to be here, planning hikes, discovering new corners of California, sharing these with friends and family, means more than you know.

To my paid subscribers, thank you (each and every 434 of you) for making this work more sustainable. You’re the reason I can scout new routes, build maps, and share both the polished guides and the behind-the-scenes mishaps.

If you’re looking for an easy, meaningful holiday gift this year:

• A paid subscription gets your friend or family member:

  • Full access to my California map with secret spots, waterfalls, urbex finds, and more;

  • Themed maps like the Redwood Map with top hikes and filters;

  • Deep-dive trail guides and stories they won’t find just scrolling social media.

And if you simply forward this post to someone who might like it? That helps too.

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Wherever you end up this season, on a flat redwood stroll with your parents, wandering through Arcata’s mossy forest maze, sweating your way up Laguna’s ridges, grinding out miles on the Dipsea, or chasing a roaring Murietta Falls, I hope you find a moment to breathe, look around, and feel thankful for the body that carried you there.

See you on the trail!

— Dan
📍 Instagram | TikTok | Facebook

If there’s a perfect month to hike among giants, it’s November. The crisp air, filtered light, and damp forest floor combine to release that earthy redwood scent that only appears after the first real rains. It’s also the time when crowds fade, trails quiet, and the forest begins its seasonal reset.

This past month, I’ve been deep in writing my first hiking book, a project that’s part field guide, part story collection. Every time I revisit a favorite trail through words, it reminds me why I started sharing these places in the first place: to help others feel that spark of awe and connection that only California’s redwood forests can bring.

With this month’s feature, I’m also excited to announce the release of my second California Map, focused entirely on the top 45+ redwood hikes across the state. The map includes new filters like easy, hard, and the top 10 must-experience trails, making it easier than ever to plan your own redwood adventure. Each pin includes a description and link to AllTrails.

If you’re not already a paid subscriber, now’s a great time to join. It not only helps me keep exploring and sharing fresh trail ideas, but it also makes a thoughtful, affordable holiday gift for the adventurer in your life for just $30/year or $5/month. And with my brand new California redwood map, there’s never been a better time to upgrade!

Lastly, as I continue building this full-time, I’m actively seeking sponsors for these monthly newsletters, that are now reaching 12,000 amazing trailblazers. If you or someone you know might want to support this growing outdoor community, please reach out.

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Meet November’s Hero: California’s Redwoods

California is home to two of the most extraordinary tree species on Earth:

• Coast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens): the tallest trees in the world, reaching over 370 feet high and thriving in the cool, fog-fed coastal belt from Big Sur to the Oregon border.

• Giant sequoias (Sequoiadendron giganteum): broader and heavier cousins that grow only on the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada between 5,000–7,000 feet.

Both belong to the cypress family, but they live in very different climates. Coast redwoods love humidity and fog; sequoias favor snowy winters and dry summers. What unites them is age and resilience, some living specimens predate the fall of the Roman Empire.

Old Growth vs. Second Growth

“Old growth” forests are those that have never been logged or heavily disturbed. They feature multi-layered canopies, fallen nurse logs, massive trunks, and a rich ecosystem that can take centuries to develop. “Second growth” forests are younger stands that have regrown after past logging. While still beautiful, they lack the cathedral-like stillness and biodiversity of true old growth.

Today, only about 5% of California’s original old-growth redwoods remain. That’s why visiting and protecting these groves is so vital, as they’re living time capsules of ancient Earth.

Ranking System

To make a top ten list as objective as possible, I used a scoring system based on five weighted categories:

1. Scenic Beauty (30%) – Visual drama, light quality, and grove composition.
2. Trail Experience (25%) – Path condition and solitude.
3. Historical or Ecological Significance (20%) – Conservation story, age of trees, or unique natural features.
4. Accessibility (15%) – Ease of reaching the trailhead year-round.
5. Wow Factor (10%) – That intangible sense of wonder that makes you stop and just look up.

Each trail earned a composite score, and only one hike per region or park was allowed to keep the list geographically diverse. Keep in mind, this list isn’t about one single impressive tree, so you’re not going to find General Sherman in Sequoia National Park here.

The Top 10 Redwood Hikes in California

Here’s what my top 10 list looks like on my new Redwood Trail Map:

California’s Top 5 Redwood Trails Detailed

1. Grove of Titans (Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park)

AllTrails link: Grove of Titans

Why #1:
If you want epic, this is epic. Some of the largest known coast redwoods by volume live here. Combine that with the remote northern‐California setting and a boardwalk access portion that gives you the cathedral feel of forest giants, this hike hits high marks.

Story & history:
The grove was long known to native peoples, then re-discovered and only recently opened with sustainable access via a raised boardwalk to protect the delicate forest floor. The narrative is about conservation and “letting the forest tell its story” rather than imposing big infrastructure.

Trail notes:

• The trail is ~1.7 miles round trip and very moderate in elevation gain.

• Because it’s further north and more remote, November means cooler air, possible damp forest floor and a chance for greater solitude.

• Due to limited parking and more subtle access, arriving early with a 4x4 vehicle is key. No parking fee and no dogs allowed.

2. Founders Grove (Humboldt Redwoods State Park)

AllTrails link: Founders Grove Nature Trail

Why I ranked it #2:
This is one of the most accessible yet awe-inspiring redwood groves in the state. A well-maintained loop invites you into giant trunks, exposed roots, rich moss and forest floor that feels prehistoric. Because it sits along the Avenue of the Giants corridor in Humboldt, you get a grand experience with minimal extra effort. And as a bonus, you can easily spot an albino redwood tree, uniquely 100 feet up in the air.

Story & history:
The trail features the “Founders Tree” (named in honor of the founders of the Save the Redwoods League) and the legendary “Dyerville Giant”, a massive fallen redwood whose roots now form a dramatic, almost surreal root-widow sculpture.

Trail notes:

• The half-mile loop is flat, stroller/accessible friendly.

• In November you’ll catch especially nice light as the sun is lower, forest floor leaves may add a warm hue.

• Free parking fills early on weekends; no dogs allowed.

3. Dipsea and Steep Ravine (Mt. Tamalpais State Park)

AllTrails link: Matt Davis to Steep Ravine. It’s back open!

Why #3:
This loop is one of California’s most dynamic redwood hikes, blending ocean views, canyon forests, and old-growth redwoods into a single unforgettable route. It’s the perfect balance of coastal drama and forest tranquility, and a clear standout for Bay Area hikers looking for a redwood escape close to home.

Story & history:
Long before it became a hiker’s paradise, Mount Tamalpais was a gathering ground for the Coast Miwok people, whose villages dotted the slopes near present day Stinson Beach. Later, in the early 1900s, it became one of the birthplaces of California hiking culture, home to the legendary Dipsea Race, which is the oldest trail race in America.

Trail notes:

• Expect rolling terrain, about 1,600 feet of elevation gain, and a steady mix of ocean breeze and cool forest shade.

• Come early on weekends; the Pantoll lot fills fast ($8 day use fee), or start from Stinson Beach for a quieter approach (my preferred starting point).

• No dogs allowed.

4. Peters Creek Loop (Portola Redwoods State Park)

AllTrails link: Old Tree / Slate Creek / Bear Creek / Peters Creek Trails

Why #4:
This one is less about the easy stroll, more about commitment and immersion. You’ll go deeper into the redwoods, into lesser-visited terrain, which means more reward. For November, when you’re game for a longer outing, this one stands out.

Story & history:
This loop takes you through one of the third‐largest old-growth redwood groves in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The hike passes old shingle-mill sites and remote trails that whisper of logging and forest recovery.

Trail notes for November:

• Distance: around 12 miles round-trip with fairly significant elevation change.

• November means cooler, possible mud near creek crossings. Be ready to climb over large fallen trees that obstruct the trail.

• $10 day use; no dogs allowed.

5. Pioneer Nature Trail (Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve)

AllTrails link: Pioneer Nature Trail

Why #5:
If you want a shorter, easier, yet still majestic redwood experience (especially ideal in November for a mellow day hike), this is it. Great for families, side-trips, or combining with wine-country stops.

Story & history:
The trail runs through what remains of the primeval coast redwood forest at Armstrong. This easy loop is good for entry-level hikers, kids, or as a warm-up before more ambitious hikes. The site also features trees over 1,400 years old and heights over 300 ft. It’s got the big tree magic without the full day commitment.

Trail notes:

• The trail is less than 2 miles round-trip, mostly flat and ADA accessible.

• November light is beautiful through the tall trunks, and the crowd levels drop compared to summer.

• $10 day use with dogs allowed on leash. Be prepared: it can be very cold in the late fall mornings.

Final Thoughts & My Redwood Map

Thanks as always for reading, exploring, and helping me keep this dream alive. November is the redwood forest’s reset button, enjoy some quiet, and take time to consider what your thankful for.

If you know someone who’d like this post, you can share it with them using the link below.

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And, if you want to become a supporter of my work, access my California map (and new redwood hiking map), or grab an incredible gift for your fellow adventurer, the links are ready for you below!

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October is here, and with it comes the perfect excuse to explore trails with a little extra mystery. From haunted tunnels to caves echoing with legends, these five hikes bring history, folklore, and just enough chill to match the season.

Before we dive in, quick news: I’m planning to release my first-ever YouTube long-form video. It will document a hidden gem that requires a class 4 scramble to reach jaw-dropping waterfalls and alpine views. If you’ve ever wondered how far I’ll go for the ultimate adventure…this is it.

👉 Support the channel and subscribe for free here: https://www.youtube.com/@Outdoorwiseliving.

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Reminder: I can’t bring all these trails without your support! Paid subscribers get easy, filterable access to all my best trails on my California Map.

And be sure to follow along on Instagram, Facebook , or TikTok to see more inspiration!

Now, let’s get into this month’s lineup of spooky October hikes:

1. Donner Tunnels: Ghosts of the Past

High above Donner Lake, carved into granite during the 1860s rush to complete the Transcontinental Railroad, lie the Donner Tunnels. Even without the dark history of the nearby Donner Party, these tunnels are unsettling. Step inside and you’re swallowed by blackness, your footsteps bouncing off concrete in strange echoes. Water drips from the ceiling, graffiti glows in your flashlight beam, and the cold air feels… heavy, like you’re not alone.

Locals still whisper that the tunnels hold the restless energy of workers who died during their construction, and if you pause long enough, you might hear a low rumble that sounds like an approaching train — though the tracks have been silent for decades.

Donner Summit Train Tunnels, Truckee. AllTrails Link
📏 Distance: 3.0 miles out & back, but you can go further ~400 ft elevation.
🅿️ Parking: Donner Summit Sno-Park or along old Donner Summit Road (permit required in winter)
👦 Kid-Friendly: Yes! The ‘smell’ can be a little scary at times.
🚽 Restrooms: None; plan ahead.
♿ Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible.
🌞 Shade: Mostly shaded inside tunnels.
⚠️ Bring a flash light and layers for the tunnels. Note: tunnels can be wet.
🐶 Dog Policy: Allowed on leash.

2. Dimond Park & Hidden Tunnel: Oakland’s Urban Mystery

Tucked away in Oakland, Dimond Park seems innocent enough: a creekside trail beneath oak and bay trees, playgrounds filled with families, the hum of the city just beyond. But wander deeper into Dimond Canyon and you’ll find the tunnel. Covered in graffiti, cool with dripping water, it dares you to step inside.

It’s not haunted by name, but the feeling lingers. Urban legends say people have seen shadowy figures moving when no one else was inside. I can’t confirm it, but I’ll admit: I didn’t linger long.

Dimond Canyon Park, Oakland. AllTrails Link
📏 Distance: 2.9 miles loop, ~200 ft elevation. You need to push beyond the marked trail to get to the tunnel (follow the creek)
🅿️ Parking: Free street parking near Dimond Recreation Center.
👦 Kid-Friendly: Yes for the main loop; I don’t really recommend the tunnel area for kids.
🚽 Restrooms: Limited near playground area.
♿ Accessibility: Partial paved paths, main loop has dirt trails.
🌞 Shade: Mostly shaded.
⚠️ Flashlight required. Avoid construction zones.
🐶 Dog Policy: Allowed on leash.

3. Cave of Munits: Legends & Light Beams

Out in the West Hills of Los Angeles, the Cave of Munits looks like something out of a fantasy novel: a sandstone cathedral with ceilings so high you can barely see them and shafts of light piercing through cracks in the rock. But its beauty hides a darker story.

According to Chumash lore, this cave was once the dwelling of a powerful shaman. Some stories say he abused his power, and his end came violently here. Even without knowing the history, you can feel the strangeness. Every sound ricochets oddly, like whispers coming from the walls themselves. When the sun dips low and shadows stretch inside, you’ll understand why shamans believed this place held power.

Cave of Munits, West Hills (Los Angeles). AllTrails Link
📏 Distance: 1.6 miles loop, ~450 ft elevation.
🅿️ Parking: Free parking on Vanowen St near trailhead.
👦 Kid-Friendly: Not recommended for young kids; scramble sections can be dangerous.
🚽 Restrooms: None.
♿ Accessibility: Not accessible.
🌞 Shade: Mostly exposed until cave interior.
⚠️ Wildlife Alert: Rattlesnakes possible in warmer months.
🐶 Dog Policy: Allowed on leash, but scrambling may be unsafe for dogs.

4. Lizard’s Mouth: Twilight Overlook

Outside Santa Barbara, a short walk leads to a sprawling sandstone outcrop known as Lizard’s Mouth. By day, it’s a playground of boulders and caves with sweeping views of the Channel Islands. But stay through sunset and the place transforms.

The wind funnels through the rock formations in strange ways. Locals joke that the rocks come alive after dark, their shapes shifting in the fading light. Standing there, with the Pacific stretching out in twilight, you can’t help but feel you’ve stepped into something ancient, like the stones themselves are keeping secrets. Especially with Godzilla (aka Lizard’s mouth) lurking in front of you.

Lizard’s Mouth. AllTrails Link
📏 Distance: 0.5 miles out & back, ~50 ft elevation.
🅿️ Parking: Small dirt turnout at trailhead.
👦 Kid-Friendly: Short hike, but cliffs make close supervision essential.
🚽 Restrooms: None.
♿ Accessibility: Not accessible.
🌞 Shade: Fully exposed.
🐶 Dog Policy: Allowed on leash.

5. Secret Sidewalk: The White Witch of Niles Canyon

The Bay Area’s most notorious haunted hike is the Secret Sidewalk in Fremont’s Niles Canyon. What looks like a forgotten aqueduct is really a canvas of graffiti, stretching through broken concrete and crumbling walls. But it’s the legend that brings people here: the White Witch.

The story goes that decades ago, a young woman was killed in a car accident along Niles Canyon on her wedding night. Dressed in her gown, she now roams the canyon searching for her lost groom. Drivers have reported picking up a hitchhiker in white, only to have her vanish from the backseat before they reach the other side. Walk the Secret Sidewalk at dusk, and every crack of a branch, every wisp of fog feels like her presence pressing close.

I’ve been here enough times to know: whether or not you believe in ghosts, this place will test your nerves.

⚠️ It is trespassing to access this spot (requires navigation of multiple hazards). For paid subscribers, you can see my experience & guide at the bottom of this: Guide to Secret Sidewalk

Final Thoughts

These five hikes bring history, folklore, and a thrill factor perfect for October. Whether you’re exploring a dark train tunnel or chasing ghost stories in Niles Canyon, each one adds a spooky twist to your adventure. Scared to go alone? Share this blog with a friend!

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And for those ready for the ultimate adrenaline rush, subscribe for my first YouTube video. A class 4 scramble, waterfalls, and views I’ll never forget… you’ll see why I called it heart-pounding.

Until next time: leave no trace, hike responsibly, and keep chasing California’s hidden gems.

👻 Happy October hiking!

— Dan
📍 Instagram | TikTok | Facebook

There’s something about Yosemite that never gets old. It’s not just the sheer granite walls, the waterfalls, or the iconic domes, it’s the variety. Every season in the valley feels like a completely different park. In spring, waterfalls thunder at full force. Summer brings wildflower meadows and warm nights. Autumn covers the valley floor in gold, red, and orange, while winter turns everything into a quiet cathedral of snow.

This guide has been one of my most requested: it’s “One Perfect Day in Yosemite Valley.” Think of it as a greatest hits tour with a few hidden gems tucked in. If you’re looking ahead to next year, you should also check out my Kid-Friendly Hidden Yosemite Guide (great for spring visits with easy, lesser-known waterfalls).

And since we’re heading right into peak foliage season, I’ve also included my six favorite places in the valley for fall photography at the end.

👉 If you love guides like this, be sure to subscribe to my blog! Each month I highlight new hikes, itineraries, and hidden spots across California, plus seasonal maps with all my favorites marked.

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Reminder: You can find all my best trails on my California Map ($5/month, $25/year), and be sure to follow along on Instagram, Facebook , YouTube or TikTok to see more incredible trail guides!

Planning Your Perfect Day

Before we jump into the trail stops, let’s talk logistics. Yosemite rewards a little planning, and a few tips will make your visit much smoother.

Pack smart. Fall mornings in the valley can be near-freezing, while afternoons climb into the 60s or 70s. Bring layers: a base layer, a fleece or sweater, and a waterproof shell. Comfortable shoes are a must, along with a refillable water bottle, snacks or a picnic lunch, sunscreen, and a camera. If you’re heading to Tuolumne Grove later in the day, trekking poles can help on the climb back out.

Weather shifts fast. The valley is sheltered, but higher elevations can see early snow or icy patches this time of year. Always check the forecast before leaving home, and remember conditions change hour by hour.

Entry rules. Good news for 2025: there are no entry reservations required for the rest of the year. You’ll just need to pay the $35 per-car fee at the gate. In spring and summer, reservations sometimes return for peak weekends, but for fall you’re clear.

Which entrance to use?

• From the Bay Area, Arch Rock (via Highway 140) or Big Oak Flat (via Highway 120) are your best bets.

• From Los Angeles or the Central Valley, the South Entrance (via Highway 41) will bring you in through Wawona.

• From the Eastern Sierra, you can enter via Tioga Pass if the road is still open for the season (always check conditions).

With the basics covered, let’s dive into the itinerary.

One Perfect Day in Yosemite Valley

Start early. Yosemite is magical at sunrise, when soft light hits the granite walls and the crowds haven’t yet arrived. Every stop below is a natural pause for photos, and I recommend allowing time to just sit and take it all in.

Stop 1: Tunnel View (allocate 30 minutes total)

Your perfect day begins here. This is the view: the wide valley framed by El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome. Even if you’ve seen it in photos a thousand times, the scale in person never fails to impress. Sunrise and early morning light make this stop unforgettable.

The Secret Cave in Wawona Tunnel

Just a few steps from Tunnel View lies one of Yosemite’s hidden quirks—a carved niche inside the Wawona Tunnel. It’s easy to miss, but this little spot feels like a time capsule, a relic from the tunnel’s construction, and it makes for an intriguing photo stop. Instructions: From the Tunnel View parking lot, head into the tunnel and walk on the right side (there will be a narrow sidewalk). About 0.2 miles in you’ll find the cave/tunnel on the right hand side. Bring earplugs (the tunnel is loud) and flashlights.

Stop 2: Bridalveil Fall (allocate 30 minutes)

Even in fall when the flow is lighter, the setting is dramatic. The Miwok called it “Pohono,” meaning the Spirit of the Puffing Wind, and when breezes catch the water it seems to float sideways across the cliff face. A short walk from the parking area leads you to the base, morning sun will make photography a challenge here. Alltrails link; 0.7 miles round trip.

Stop 3: Walking Tour near Yosemite Falls (allocate 3-4 hours)

Park near Yosemite Valley Lodge and explore on foot. This is your hub for the middle of the day. From here, a loop connects several of Yosemite’s most photogenic and historically important spots. You can see all the waypoints below in 4-5.5 miles, depending on whether or not you hike Lower Yosemite Falls.

• Lower Yosemite Falls: An easy paved path brings you right to the base of the tallest waterfall in North America. Alltrails Link; 1.25 miles round trip, likely not flowing this time of year.

• Half Dome Viewpoints: From meadows and openings near the lodge, you’ll catch classic angles of Half Dome rising over the valley. Head east/north on northside drive.

  

• Cook’s Meadow Trail: This flat loop lets you wander through golden grasses with panoramic views of Yosemite Falls and Half Dome.

  

• Yosemite Chapel + Hidden Falls View
  Continue your walk through Yosemite valley as proceed over Superintendent’s Bridge to stop by the quaint Yosemite Chapel (the oldest standing structure in the valley). From here you’ll find one of the lesser-known vantage points of Yosemite Falls, a quieter angle where you can often hear little more than the wind through the leaves. Use these GPS coordinates for approximate location: 37°44'22.5"N 119°35'42.2"W

  

Stop 5: El Capitan & Valley View (allocate 20 minutes)

By late afternoon, head to check out both El Cap and Valley View along Southside Drive. Valley View is one of my favorite golden hour spots , with the Merced River in the foreground and the valley walls glowing in the setting sun (opening blog photo).

Stop 6: Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias (allocate 1.5 hours)

If you still have energy before heading home (or the next morning if you’re staying overnight), wander into Tuolumne Grove. It’s about 3 miles round trip with a climb back uphill, but the reward is a stand of ancient giant sequoias. Walking among them is a humbling way to close your Yosemite day. Alltrails link.

Where to See Fall Foliage

Since we’re nearing peak season, I thought I would share my favorite six spots for autumn color in Yosemite Valley. Each is easily accessible, with parking nearby:

1. Mirror Lake Trail: Reflections of cliffs and golden trees on still water.

2. Yosemite Valley Chapel: The little chapel framed by glowing maples mentioned above.

3. Southside Drive near Arch Rock Entrance: A corridor of oaks and maples along the river.

4. Around the Ahwahnee Hotel: Architecture meets autumn colors.

5. Sentinel Bridge: Classic Half Dome reflection with fall trees.

6. Swinging Bridge: Wide river views surrounded by cottonwoods and color.

Yosemite in the fall is one of nature’s best shows, with golden leaves, crisp air, and the valley at its most peaceful. One day is never enough, but this itinerary will give you a perfect balance of icons, hidden gems, and photo-worthy foliage.

If you enjoyed this guide, don’t forget to subscribe to my monthly hiking blog, where I share seasonal itineraries like this all across California, plus hidden waterfalls, secret trails, and curated maps you can use on your next adventure.

So, are you ready to plan your one perfect day in Yosemite Valley this fall? Think someone would love this itinerary? Share it with a friend!

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Until next time: leave no trace, hike responsibly, and keep chasing California’s hidden gems.

Dan
@OutdoorWiseLiving
📍 Instagram | TikTok | Facebook

This month’s blog comes with a little bit of personal news: after an 18 year career, I will be separating from Clorox later this month. I’ll share more details soon, but what I can say for now is that I’m excited about the new chapter ahead.

The silver lining? I get to dedicate more time to doing what I love most: exploring California’s hidden trails and creating guides for all of you.

I’d love to hear from you in the comments: what types of content would you like me to focus on more? Secret swimming holes? Family-friendly trails? Fall foliage adventures?

Drop your thoughts below; your input will help shape where I go from here. And be sure to make sure you’re subscribed to this blog to get all my trail guides

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Reminder: you can find all my best trails on my California Map, and be sure to follow along on Instagram, Facebook , YouTube or TikTok to see more inspiration!

1. Dripping Cave: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park (Southern California)

If you’re looking for a hike with a mix of natural beauty and fascinating history, Dripping Cave Trail is one of the prettiest spots in Orange County. Locals know it as the “Robber’s Cave,” rumored to have once been a hideout for bandits.

Along the way, you’ll spot rabbits darting through the brush, quail bouncing along the trail, and maybe even deer if you’re lucky. Shade is limited, so bring sunscreen.

Trail Details:

• 🥾 Distance: 5–8 miles round trip (depending on starting point)

• ⛰️ Elevation: Mostly gentle, a few short steeper sections

• 🅿️ Parking: Free and paid options; 3 accessible spaces available

• ♿ Accessibility: First 0.7 miles are paved and more wheelchair/stroller-friendly, but beyond that you’ll encounter wooden bridges, steps, and sand/gravel

• 🚫 Dogs: Not allowed

• Alltrails link: here.

👉 Why it’s awesome: A mix of history, wildlife, and unique geology in one of SoCal’s most underrated wilderness areas.

2. Jack London’s Pig Palace – Glen Ellen, CA

In 1915, Jack London built a pigpen that was so innovative an SF reporter dubbed it the “Pig Palace.” The state-of-the-art system allowed care for 200 pigs at once, with roofed sleeping areas, troughs, and fenced outdoor runs. Today, it’s part of Jack London State Historic Park, and worth a visit not just for the history, but also for the surrounding redwoods, a 110-year-old dam, and nearby ruins of London’s once-grand dream home.

Trail Guide:

• 🥾 Trail: Mountain & Quarry Trail

• 📐 Distance: ~3 miles, ~500 ft elevation gain

• 🅿️ Parking: $10, open daily 9–5pm

• 👶 Kid-friendly: Yes, Pig Palace is just 1/3 mile from the trailhead

• 🚽 Restrooms: At trailhead (may be locked)

• 🐕 Dog Policy: Allowed only in designated historic areas (not on most trails)

• 🌲 Shade: First half-mile exposed, then shaded near redwoods and lake (dry this time of year)

• Alltrails Link: here.

Nearby Stops:

• Wolf House Ruins

• Jack London’s Grave

• Sonoma Mountain Overlook Trail

• Lunch in Glen Ellen (Glen Ellen Star is my pick!)

• Sonoma Botanical Gardens

👉 Why it’s awesome: It’s where California history, literature, and outdoor beauty collide.

3. The Famous Mt. Tam Tree Swing – Stinson Beach, CA

I know, I know… everyone’s going to be posting about fall foliage, pumpkin spice, and leaf-peeping this time of year. But honestly, California’s coast is still full of hidden gems worth chasing, and this tree swing with a panoramic view of Stinson Beach is one of my favorites.

There are three ways to get there depending on how much effort you want to put in:

1. The Easy Route: Park at Whitegate Ranch Trailhead off Panoramic Highway, just 1/3 mile walk to the swing.

2. The Moderate Route: Park at Matt Davis or Dipsea Trailhead, hike about 1 mile before cutting over to the fireroad.

3. The Epic Route: Combine Matt Davis → Steep Ravine → Dipsea (7 miles total) for the ultimate Bay Area hike, then add on the swing as your reward. Note - parts of this trail are closed so be sure to check trail status before going.

🚫 Note: Dogs aren’t allowed here, so leave the pups at home.

👉 Why it’s awesome: The swing itself feels like magic — one of the best coastal views in California with a playful twist.

4. Mount Tamalpais Summit – Verna Dunshee Trail & Plank Walk Trail

At 2,571 feet, Mt. Tam’s East Peak is a NorCal classic, but with a quirky twist. Back in 1896, it was home to the world’s crookedest railroad, with 281 curves in just over 8 miles. Today, you can still visit the old gravity car barn on weekends, then hike to the summit for breathtaking views.

Trail Details:

• 🥾 Distance: Verna Dunshee Loop (0.8 mi) + Plank Walk Trail (~1 mi roundtrip)

• 🅿️ Parking: $8 (CA State Park)

• ⛰️ Difficulty: Easy/moderate, but Plank Walk is rocky and not wheelchair accessible

• 🐕 Dog-friendly: Yes!

• 🌄 Highlights: Heart-shaped rock near summit, fire lookout tower, benches with sweeping views of San Francisco and Marin

• AllTrails link: here.

👉 Why it’s awesome: A short, family-friendly hike with a huge payoff: history, views, and one of the last active fire towers in the Bay.

5. The Elbow Tree via Bald Knob Trail – San Mateo County

This one’s a true hidden gem. Tucked into the Santa Cruz Mountains, the Elbow Tree is a gnarled, twisted redwood that looks like something straight out of a fairytale. But you have to earn it.

The route isn’t marked on AllTrails, which makes it all the more special. You’ll need to go via Grabtown Gulch → Irish Ridge → Lobitos Creek Trail, about 7 miles round trip.

Trail Notes:

• 🥾 Distance: ~7 miles. You can use AllTrails to see the trail connectors, but there’s no official link to share.

• 🅿️ Parking: Free, but very limited. Park here.

• 🚫 Dogs: Not allowed

• 🌲 Difficulty: Moderate — lots of ups and downs, but stunning redwoods and ridge views along the way

👉 Why it’s awesome: A rare, secret-feeling hike through deep forest ending with one of the strangest and most beautiful trees in the Bay Area.

Think someone would love these trails? Share it with a friend!

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Final Thoughts

September may be all about pumpkin spice for some, but here in California, it’s still prime season for hidden hikes, unique history, and coastal escapes. From caves and palaces to swings and summits, these trails prove there’s always something new to discover.

This month feels like the start of something new for me too, and I can’t wait to keep bringing you more trail guides, local secrets, and inspiration to get outside.

👉 Let me know in the comments: which of these trails is calling your name? And what kind of content would you like to see more of in the months ahead?

Until next time: leave no trace, hike responsibly, and keep chasing California’s hidden gems.

Dan
@OutdoorWiseLiving
📍 Instagram | TikTok | Facebook

There’s not much that can beat these California swim hole spots. But first, I want to share a key shift in how I’m building this space…

For a while, I offered group hikes to my paid Substack community. They were meaningful, n…

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They call Redding the trail capital of California and for good reason. With over 300 sunny days each year, it sits at the gateway to Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, Mount Shasta, and Lassen Volcanic National Park. Waterfalls tumble through canyons, trails wind by pristine rivers, and hidden pa…

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This blog includes the trail that nearly broke me.

The climb down a cliff with a rope.

The missing iPhone.

Let’s just say, God’s Bath is my arch nemesis.

Last summer, I challenged myself to visit three legendary swimming holes in a single day: one near Yosemite, and two tucked into Stanislaus National Forest. The forecast? 103°F. I started early and made God’s Bath my first stop.

To reach it, I had to descend a ~100-foot cliff using a sketchy rope; gloves on, phone loosely stashed in my pocket. The final stretch to the water involves a rope-assisted rock ledge and a tunnel exit swim. The adrenaline was flowing.

So was my panic when I realized: My phone had vanished.

It had fallen, likely into the water, carrying all my photos and video from the last 3 years (not backed up). I scrambled back up, drove 45 minutes to the nearest town with service. Thankfully, I had a second phone with me for maps. I purchased goggles and a flashlight at a local grocery store before returning to the river, but the pools were too deep to search. I felt like this was the end of ‘Outdoor Wise Living’ and all these trail guides I make.

Two weeks later, a diver I hired drove up from SoCal and found the phone, intact and still functional after drying. It was a miracle!

Needless to say, I now back up to the cloud daily and zip up my phone in a fanny pack whenever I’m not using it. With this story in mind, let’s start July with what’s most important:

Swimhole Safety Reminders

Rivers and creeks are deceptively dangerous in the summer. Use caution and follow these tips:

1. Never hike or swim alone

2. Share your exact location with someone before you go

3. Assume no cell reception and carry offline maps or GPS

4. Wear grippy water shoes or hiking sandals

5. Use reef-safe sunscreen and reapply often

6. Avoid alcohol near cliffs or fast-moving water

7. Don’t dive headfirst

As always, you can find all my best trails on my California Map, and be sure to follow along on Instagram or TikTok or Facebook to see more inspiration! Subscribe to this blog so you don’t miss part 2 of California swimholes.

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5 California Swim holes for July

1. Santa Paula Canyon to the Punchbowls

Ventura County
📍 AllTrails Link

• Distance: 10.5 miles out-and-back

• Elevation Gain: ~1,900 ft

• Dog-Friendly: Yes (but not recommended in the heat)

• Highlights: Waterfalls, a natural waterslide, rope scrambles

• Trailhead: Begins near St. Thomas Aquinas College off Hwy 150

• Tips: Do not go beyond the Punchbowls—the trail past that point is in poor shape. Bring tons of water. Natural slide is easy to crash into the rock wall so proceed with caution.

2. Big Sur River Gorge

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
📍 AllTrails Link

• Distance: 1.1 miles out-and-back

• Elevation Gain: Minimal

• Dog-Friendly: No

• Highlights: Swim through towering granite walls, river bouldering

• Parking Fee: $10

• Trail Notes: There’s no formal path—just follow the river upstream

3. The Potholes

High Sierra near Kit Carson
📍 AllTrails Link
📖 Full Trail Blog

• Distance: 1.5 miles out-and-back

• Elevation Gain: ~150 ft

• Dog-Friendly: Yes

• Parking: Free but small lot

• Best Time to Visit: June–September

4. Stoddard Canyon Falls

Angeles National Forest, Mt. Baldy Area
📍 [Trailhead: Mt Baldy Rd, Claremont, CA 91711]

• Distance: 1.25 miles out-and-back

• Elevation Gain: 188 ft

• Dog-Friendly: Yes

• Permit Needed: Adventure Pass

• Highlights: Waterfall fed pool, shaded canyon, rock slide (use caution if trying)

• Notes: The trail descends first; save energy for the climb out. There’s graffiti; please practice Leave No Trace principles if you go

Final Thoughts

Swimming holes are nature’s answer to heatwaves. Whether you’re chasing a natural waterslide, a secret river canyon, or just a cold pool to wade in, I hope this list adds some excitement to your next adventure.

Got a favorite hidden swim hole I haven’t mentioned yet? Hit reply and let me know!

If you enjoyed this post, please share it with a friend and help others discover California’s coolest hikes!

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Last, you can find the guide to my Nemesis below (only for the extreme adventurers)!

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If you’ve been waiting for a reason to lace up your boots, this is it. This month’s trail lineup is one of my most epic yet—featuring forgotten rail tunnels, sea caves that only reveal themselves at low tide, and a legendary swing cave tucked into a SoCal cliffside.

Hiking in California isn’t just about getting outside—it’s about discovering places that still feel wild. Whether you're road-tripping for a weekend adventure or looking for a trail close to home, these picks offer something rare: that magical combo of beauty, thrill, and history.

🚨 With rising summer temps, this guide also includes critical rattlesnake safety tips—because staying safe means you get to hike another day.

But that’s not all. Stay tuned—upcoming content will feature California’s wildest sea caves and tide pools, Redding’s hidden gems, and some of the best secret swimming holes within the High Sierra.

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Reminder: you can find all my best trails on my California Map, and be sure to follow along on Instagram or TikTok to see more inspiration! I’d also love support on my Facebook and YouTube pages!

Summer Safety: Rattlesnakes & Why Snake Bite Kits Might Be a Bad Idea

Summer heat means rattlesnakes are out and active. While encounters are rare, they do happen—especially on exposed trails like the ones I am featuring here.

Here’s how to stay safe:

✅ Stay on the trail
✅ Watch where you step (especially near rocks, logs, or tall grass)
✅ Use trekking poles to stir brush ahead of you
✅ Avoid headphones so you can hear the telltale rattle
✅ Leash your dog—they’re more likely to get bitten
✅ Step on logs, not over them

❌ Skip the snake bite kits—modern first aid professionals advise against using suction kits, cutting wounds, or tourniquets. Instead:

• Stay calm

• Immobilize the bite area

• Get to a hospital ASAP

If you do encounter a rattlesnake, back away slowly. They're not aggressive and usually want to avoid you just as much as you want to avoid them.

🔒 A Note About Sensitive Spots & Safety:

I’m sharing a teaser of the secret swing hike and the Bay Bridge swing in this post—but due to high risk, limited access, and safety concerns, full detailed maps are only available to paid subscribers. This helps us protect these places, encourage responsible adventuring, and support the content that makes discovering them possible.

Now, let’s get to the trails! 👇

🌊 1. Davenport Tunnel

An abandoned railroad tunnel that now leads straight to the ocean.

Just off Highway 1 near Davenport Beach, you’ll find the remnants of the old Ocean Shore Railroad. Built in the early 1900s to connect San Francisco and Santa Cruz, the railroad was abandoned by 1920—but its tunnels remain. The one at San Vicente Creek still channels water under Highway 1… and now it channels hikers into one of the most surreal beach scenes in Northern California.

🥾 Trail: Davenport Beach Tunnel Trail
🔗 AllTrails – N/A although for a hike; can be combined with Shark fin cove.
🅿️ Parking: Free roadside parking off Highway 1 near the Davenport Cliffs turnout
📏 Distance: ~0.5 mile round trip
🏔️ Elevation Gain: Less than 100 feet
🦮 Dog-Friendly: Yes, on leash
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly: Yes
🕶️ Exposure: Some sun, some shade
📅 Best Time: Low tide for exploring near the tunnel.
🗑️ Pro Tip: Bring waterproof shoes and a bathing suit if you plan to explore inside the tunnel—water flows through year-round.

🧗‍♂️ 2. Swing Cave (Simi Valley, SoCal)

One of the most photogenic adventure swings in California—if you can find it.

This bucket-list swing cave isn’t just about the view (though that’s epic). It’s about the climb, the challenge, and the thrill of reaching a cave carved by wind and time, where someone decided to hang a swing and change the vibe forever.

🥾 Trail: Hummingbird Trail
🔗 AllTrails: Link here
🅿️ Parking: Free on Kuehner Dr (arrive early). Google maps link.
📏 Distance: 2.5–3 miles round trip. With the heat, this is hard.
🏔️ Elevation Gain: ~1,200 ft
🦮 Dog-Friendly: Yes, on leash. I don’t recommend bringing dogs on this one due to the heat and elevation
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly: Teens and older kids who can handle scrambling
🕶️ Exposure: Fully exposed—sunscreen is non-negotiable
📅 Best Time: Early morning is a must with summer heat
🗑️ Leave No Trace
📍 Swing Cave Coordinates: 34.2811569, -118.6476304
📍 Other nearby caves: L Rock (34.2798169, -118.6512373), Bartender’s Cave (34.2787156, -118.6537616), Creek Tunnel (34.2788260, -118.6603746).

🌊 3. Paradise Falls (Thousand Oaks)

A tepee, a cave, and a waterfall—all in one easy family friendly hike.

While LA’s higher mountain trails recover from closures, this lower elevation gem in Wildwood Park has become one of my favorite SoCal recommendations. You can visit a giant teepee, explore a cave, and stand near a crashing 40-ft waterfall—all in under 3 miles.

🥾 Trail: Paradise Falls via Mesa → Tepee → Wildwood Canyon → Little Cave → Moonridge
🔗 AllTrails: Paradise Falls. Note: this route does not go to the cave; you’ll need to open the map and head down to little cave via an off-shoot trail.
🅿️ Parking: Free (lot fills early), overflow at Wildflower Playfield. Google Maps Link.
📏 Distance: ~3 miles
🏔️ Elevation Gain: 475 ft
🦮 Dog-Friendly: Yes, on leash
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly: Absolutely, I consider this one easy.
🕶️ Exposure: Fully exposed
📅 Best Time: Year-round, but early or late in summer to beat the heat
🗑️ Pro Tip: The falls are flow-dependent—check recent rainfall for best results.

🏖️ 4. Kirby Cove & Secret Sea Cave (Golden Gate National Recreation Area)

Low tide reveals magic—if you time it right.

Just a short drive from San Francisco, Kirby Cove has it all: a beach with bridge views, historic batteries, a hidden swing (sometimes), and a sea cave only revealed during low or negative tides. Park smart, pack light, and stay aware of the tide charts.

🥾 Trail: Kirby Cove Road
🔗 AllTrails: Kirby Cove Trail
🅿️ Parking: Free on Conzelman Rd—west of Battery Spencer rotary (don’t follow AllTrails parking). Google Maps Link for approximate parking area.
📏 Distance: 3–5 miles depending on parking
🏔️ Elevation Gain: ~700 ft
🦮 Dog-Friendly: No
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly: Yes (fireroad with incline on return)
🕶️ Exposure: Fully exposed on sunny
📅 Best Time: Afternoons with low tide
🗑️ Toilets: Pit toilets at campground
🎒 Gear: Layers, sunscreen, water, tide chart app

🌊 5. Partington Cove & Hidden Talus Cave (Big Sur)

Tide pools, tunnels, and cliffside caves—one of Big Sur’s best 1-mile hikes.

This short-but-packed trail off Hwy 1 leads to multiple secret spots—if you know where to look. I explored the old logging tunnel, a peaceful cove, and a talus cave that many miss - use extreme caution for that last part—it’s steep and dangerous.

🥾 Trail: Partington Cove Trail
🔗 AllTrails: Partington Cove
🅿️ Parking: Free roadside on Hwy 1. Google Maps Link.
📏 Distance: ~1.8 miles with hidden areas
🏔️ Elevation Gain: ~350 ft
🦮 Dog-Friendly: No
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly: Yes, with supervision
🕶️ Exposure: Mix of sun and shade
📅 Best Time: Year-round
🗑️ No bathrooms
📵 No cell service—download maps offline
⚠️ Hidden areas: Only for experienced hikers. Slippery and exposed.

If you enjoyed this guide, don't forget to refer a friend! Sharing these trail tips helps support more family-friendly adventures — and there’s nothing better than exploring together. 🌲💛

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Bonus Spot

🌉 6. Secret Bay Bridge Swing (Yerba Buena Island)

A magical view with a hidden swing.

You’ve seen swings with ocean views. But have you ever swung out with the Bay Bridge right in front of you? This secret spot feels like a dream—if you know where to look. I’ll give you the starting point. But the custom map and route are for paid subscribers only, to protect this delicate (and dangerous) area.

📍 Parking Location: [37.813538, -122.370649] – Treasure Island Rd lot
🚶‍♂️ Tease: Head toward the Bay Bridge on the paved path.
📏 Distance: Short and steep
📅 Best Time: Monitor the fog
⚠️ Paid subscribers get the custom map & safety notes below 👇

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Looking for the perfect way to plan a Mother’s Day adventure or simply celebrate the beauty of spring?

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