The Western coast of America is a diverse outdoor playground, boasting numerous parks in pristine condition. It’s a fantastic destination for hikers of all skill levels, and we’ve identified some top hiking routes. Let’s get started!
Along the West Coast, including cities like San Francisco and Malibu; a multitude of wild and awe-inspiring landscapes are waiting to be explored! Dense forests and towering redwoods, breathtaking waterfalls and mighty rivers, uniquely carved coastlines by the sea… Stunning images unfold in succession but never replicate each other, leading you to crave to explore all the trail options in the many West Coast parks.
Considering a trip to the West Coast? Learn more about your destination to prepare for your travel:
- 8. Ocean Beach: Located on the western edge of San Francisco, this stunning beach is the perfect spot for swimming, walking, or sun
- Seattle: 5 Unforgettable Wildlife Encounters to Explore around the City of Emerald Green
- This is the most stunning beach on the western coast of the United States (and it’s not located in California!)
Located in the Mount Rainier National Park, this trail extends 157 kilometers and takes you through stunning mountain scenery and vast forests. This immersive adventure includes the serene Gertrude’s, Mineral, and Naches around Haylash glaciers.
3. Accommodations: stay in the park or in nearby towns for a mix of camping, lodging, and amenities
This region is a paradise for hikers, and its Mist Trail is undoubtedly one of the most popular. With a distance of 11 kilometres round-trip and a vertical drop of almost 600 metres, it typically takes approximately five hours to complete and demands a good level of physical fitness.
You’ll first head to Vernal Falls, followed by Nevada Falls to witness breathtaking views of these waterfalls. Upon reaching the summit, you can take a refreshing dip in the icy waters of the Mercer River, or choose to continue on the Half Dome Trail, a more demanding 14 mi round trip, which necessitates a permit but provides stunning panoramic vistas of the park.
Walk among the Mighty Redwoods. A Path Waiting to be Explored
It’s a hike into another world, outside of time, that awaits you in California’s Redwood National Park. Crossing 19 kilometers of ancient redwood forests, as well as spruce forests and picturesque streams, the James Irvine hiking trail takes you to the Pacific coast for a stunning view of the ocean.
, Rim Trail
The route spans over ności and Nevada, with varying altitudes from 1,900 meters near the lake to 3,151 meters at Relay Peak in Nevada.
You will also discover large pine forests and flower-filled alpine meadows that leave you breathless. This trail is a part of the famous Pacific Crest Trail, a hiking route that spans over 4,270 kilometers across the US West Coast, stretching from Washington State to the Mexican border through Oregon.
“Exploring Wonderland: A Journey to Uncover a Volcano’s Secrets”.
In Washington State, the Mount Rainier Volcano, reaching 4,392 meters in height, is worth the detour, boasting a magnificent ice cap.
Experienced hikers can gain a more intimate glimpse by following the Wonderland trail, a 93-mile route that demands considerable preparation but provides a visually stunning experience, encompassing valleys and lakes, pine forests and suspension bridges, with the captivating snow-capped peak constantly in sight.
