The beginning of summertime opens up a myriad of opportunities for Northern Californians. It’s hard not to become an outdoor enthusiast when you live in a state that boasts so many amazing hiking trails and an abundance of natural beauty. If you’re looking to start off your summer right, you’ll want to take a look at these easy summer hikes that are perfect for taking in beautiful views without exhausting too much energy. These hikes just prove that you don’t need to be a super experienced hiker in order to enjoy all that our state has to offer. Take a look at some of the best hikes in Northern California and be sure to put a few on your to-do list for the upcoming months.

1. Stanislaus River Trail From Knights Ferry (Oakdale)
Stanislaus River Drive, Stanislaus River Dr, East Oakdale, CA 95361, USA
Jillian Mosby/Alltrails
Knights Ferry Recreation Area is a hidden gem of a park in Oakdale. You'll find the trailhead at the park's information center and it traverses along the river for three short miles. You won't be able to help yourself from stopping briefly to dip your toes in the rushing river. The hike also takes you to several historic points of interest including monuments from the Gold Rush era that are definitely worth checking out.
Click here to find out more about this NorCal hike.
2. Hidden Falls Trail (Auburn)
7587 Mears Dr, Auburn, CA 95602, USA
David Fidler/Alltrails
Hidden Falls Regional Park is a wonderland of hiking trails, wildlife, waterfalls, and more. The Hidden Falls Trail is a popular three-mile loop trail that takes you through all the very best sights in the park. Beautiful foothills and small waterfalls set the scene for this amazing hike. Due to its popularity, visitors are asked to make a reservation if they plan on visiting during the weekend or on holidays.
Click here to find out more about this NorCal hike.
3. Big Meadow Tahoe Rim Trail Trailhead (South Lake Tahoe)
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150, USA
michael campa/Alltrails
The Tahoe Rim Trailhead at Big Meadow boasts a sight that is sure to take your breath away. This easy and short hike takes you to a vast green meadow which makes for the perfect retreat away from civilization. Surrounding you is the sight of trees, mountains, and wildflowers. The landscape is complete with the addition of a delightful little creek gurgling nearby.
Click here to find out more about this NorCal hike.
4. Waters Gulch Loop Trail (Lakehead)
16930 Packers Bay Rd, Lakehead, CA 96051, USA
David Perez/Alltrails
Located within Shasta-Trinity National Forest, this 2.8-mile trail takes you down through Waters Gulch and leads you to the shores of Shasta Lake. You'll find plenty of scenery along the trail, including several forested areas that make for great side explorations. This sight of the lake at the end is the perfect reward for this simple hike.
Click here to find out more about this NorCal hike.

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5. Buttermilk Bend Trail (Penn Valley)
Buttermilk Bend, California 95960, USA
Jim Pierce/Alltrails
This gorgeous two-mile hike takes you along the bluffs above the rushing South Yuba River. This trail becomes very popular during spring when the area comes alive with the color of wildflowers. However, it's equally attractive throughout summer when the river slows down and reveals several amazing swimming spots.
Click here to find out more about this NorCal hike.
6. Independence Trail (Nevada City)
Golden Chain Highway, CA-49, Nevada City, CA, USA
David Townsend/Alltrails
This trail has it all, and it's a must for adventurers. Not only does it boast jaw-dropping views from the trail's many bridges, but there's a lot of history behind this hike as well. This enchanting hike takes you across restored wooden flumes that were once used for hydraulic mining. There are two sections of this trail—East and West. Whichever one you choose is sure to blow you away.
Click here to find out more about this NorCal hike.
7. North Table Mountain Ecological Preserve (Oroville)
2488 Cherokee Rd, Oroville, CA 95965, USA
Christopher Ronan/Alltrails
Located approximately seven miles north of Oroville, this fantastic preserve boasts beautiful wildflowers and lots of greenery. The preserve is home to a six-mile loop trail that takes you through the park and past three small waterfalls on the way to the most impressive Phantom Falls. Although the trail contains lots of vegetation, there is little to no shade so come prepared.
Click here to find out more about this NorCal hike.
8. Crystal Creek Falls Trail (Whiskeytown)
Crystal Creek Falls, California 96033, USA
JoyNCH/TripAdvisor
This short and sweet trail is ADA accessible and only about half a mile long. Located within Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, you'll come across gorgeous little streams, picnic areas, and Crystal Creek Falls, of course. The waterfall is easygoing during the spring and summer, and even contains a small swimming pool at the base of the falls.
Click here to find out more about this NorCal hike.

What do you think about these hiking trails? Are they some of the best hikes in Northern California? What’s your favorite summertime hike? Put your thoughts in the comments below! Want more short and easy hikes? Check out these 11 Northern California Hikes Under 2 Miles You’ll Absolutely Love.

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More to Explore

Best Hikes In Northern California

Marisa Roman | March 09, 2022

Which hikes in Northern California are short and sweet?

Searching hiking trails near me in Northern California that are short and sweet will yield some pretty great results. Nearly all hiking trails in NorCal offer up some sort of payoff, whether it’s a natural beauty, the sunshine, or the mountain fresh air. We have 8 short and easy hikes in Northern California that will showcase so many different aspects of the state. From the Flanagan and Chamise Peak Trail in Redding to the Lake Siskiyou Trail in Mount Shasta, you’ll be able to enjoy an array of Mother Nature that really makes this part of the country shine.

What are the most picturesque hiking trails in Northern California?

There are plenty of scenic hikes in California, but sometimes choosing where to start can be a frustrating process. However, fear not friends, we have 12 short and scenic hikes in NorCal that are perfect to add to your list. Whether you’re exploring Lake Tahoe, Pescadero County Park, or Auburn Regional Park, you can choose your hiking trail accordingly. Each of these trails differs in length, as well as natural attractions. For instance, Pfeiffer Falls Trail in Big Sur has a waterfall feature!

What is there for kids to do in summer in Northern California?

When summer rolls around, it becomes the perfect time to take kids out on the trails to get their hands dirty in nature. There are a ton of kid-friendly hikes around Northern California that make for the perfect outdoor adventure. Start by exploring Pleasants Ridge Trail in Winters, California for a quick 0.7-mile jaunt through the lush green hills of the Putah Creek Wildlife Area. You’ll find another 0.7-mile loop trail in the Lava Bends National Monument, known as Captain Jack’s Trail in Tulelake.

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