8 Hardest Hikes in California National Parks

Put your hiking skills to the test with these challenging trails in California’s national parks!

California is home to the most national parks in the U.S., each offering unique and difficult hikes for experienced adventurers. Here are eight of the hardest hiking trails in California’s national parks:

1. Half Dome via the John Muir Trail, Yosemite National Park

Half Dome is Yosemite’s iconic granite monolith, towering over the valley at over 8,000 feet. The hike to the summit is extremely challenging, featuring steep climbs and the famous “cable walk” ascent.

Starting on the John Muir Trail, hikers pass Vernal and Nevada Falls before tackling the final 400-foot climb with cables for support. The entire hike covers 16.5 miles and gains 5,305 feet in elevation.

  • Distance: 16.5 miles
  • Time to Complete: Around 7 hours
  • Elevation Gain: 5,305 feet
  • Permit Required: Yes, via a lottery system
  • Dog-friendly: No

2. Telescope Peak Trail, Death Valley National Park

Telescope Peak is the highest point in Death Valley at 11,043 feet. The trail begins at Mahogany Flat campsite and ascends 12.2 miles through rugged terrain and extreme temperatures. Hikers gain 3,244 feet in elevation, rewarded with views of Death Valley and, on clear days, Mount Whitney.

  • Distance: 12.2 miles
  • Time to Complete: 7-8 hours
  • Elevation Gain: 3,244 feet
  • Dog-friendly: No

3. LOAR Loop Trail, Joshua Tree National Park

The LOAR Loop Trail is a multi-day, 35.7-mile hike through Joshua Tree’s diverse landscapes. Named after hiker Christy Rosander (“Lady On A Rock”), this trail includes off-trail sections, requiring extensive scrambling and navigation skills. Hikers traverse Boy Scout Trail, Big Pine Trail, North View Trail, and more, culminating at Quail Mountain.

  • Distance: 35.7 miles
  • Time to Complete: Multi-day
  • Elevation Gain: 5,357 feet
  • Dog-friendly: No

4. Little Bald Hills Trail, Redwood National Park

Starting in Smith River National Recreation Area, the Little Bald Hills Trail covers 18.5 miles through dense forests, prairies, and steep hills. With an elevation gain of 3,618 feet, this trail offers stunning views and the chance to see wildflowers, mountain views, and coastal redwoods.

  • Distance: 18.5 miles
  • Time to Complete: 9-10 hours
  • Elevation Gain: 3,618 feet
  • Dog-friendly: No

5. El Montañon Trail, Channel Islands National Park

The El Montañon Trail on Santa Cruz Island is an 8.9-mile hike beginning at Scorpion campground. Hikers gain 1,938 feet in elevation, culminating at El Montañon’s summit. The trail offers views of unique island wildlife and marine life, including sea lions and whales.

  • Distance: 8.9 miles
  • Time to Complete: 4 hours 35 minutes
  • Elevation Gain: 1,938 feet
  • Dog-friendly: No

6. High Sierra Trail, Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

The High Sierra Trail is a 93.5-mile trek through Sequoia and Kings Canyon. Starting at Crescent Meadow, hikers traverse alpine meadows, canyons, and creeks, with an elevation gain of 18,727 feet. The trail meets the John Muir Trail near Crabtree Meadow, offering the option to summit Mount Whitney.

  • Distance: 93.5 miles
  • Time to Complete: Multi-day
  • Elevation Gain: 18,727 feet
  • Dog-friendly: No

7. Snag Lake, Butte Lake, & Cinder Cone via Pacific Crest Trail, Lassen Volcanic National Park

This 30.3-mile trail begins at Warner Campground and takes hikers past Boiling Springs Lake, Snag Lake, Butte Lake, and up to Cinder Cone volcano. The route, which includes an elevation gain of 4,091 feet, showcases Lassen’s volcanic landscape and ancient lava flows.

  • Distance: 30.3 miles
  • Time to Complete: 12-13 hours
  • Elevation Gain: 4,091 feet
  • Dog-friendly: No

8. Pinnacles Greatest Hits Trail, Pinnacles National Park

The 12.5-mile Pinnacles Greatest Hits Trail loops through the park’s major attractions, including Balconies, High Peaks, Bear Gulch Reservoir, Monolith, and Cave Gulch Overlook. With an elevation gain of 3,057 feet, this trail offers views of ancient volcanic formations and deep caverns.

  • Distance: 12.5 miles
  • Time to Complete: Varies
  • Elevation Gain: 3,057 feet
  • Dog-friendly: No

These trails provide a formidable challenge for seasoned hikers, offering breathtaking views and the chance to explore the diverse landscapes of California’s national parks.

Leave a Comment