10 Picturesque Trails In Northern California That Are Perfect For Winter Hiking
By Jill S.|Updated on November 26, 2022(Originally published November 21, 2022)
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Jill S.
Author
Jill is a freelance writer from a small Northern California town and lives in the Sierra Nevada mountains. If you have an idea for an Only In Northern California story, email her at jsanford@onlyinyourstate.com.
Just because it’s gloomy out doesn’t mean you can’t still get your nature fix! There are so many places in Northern California where you can enjoy nature all year round. Here are a few of our favorite winter hikes in California – particularly, the northern part of the state. Which winter hiking trails in Northern California are your favorites? Let us know!
1. The Lost Coast Trail, Ferndale
The Lost Coast, Mattole Road, Ferndale, CA 95536, USA
This trail is almost 25 miles long, making it a favorite for longer trekkers who are camping out. It's a great place to just walk down to the ocean, however, and you can easily turn it into a day hike by shortening it down to just a few miles. This intensely beautiful scenic hike in Northern California is sure to entrance you.
This 4.1-mile lightly trafficked Northern California hiking trail is a stunning, easy loop that sees a variety of uses, including dogwalkers and casual nature observers. It's a slice of paradise all year long, and in the winter, it's even better.
This is an eight-mile trail that offers up some amazing views of the Feather River Watershed. The compelling canyon views will astound you. This astonishing waterfall hike in Northern California is a dream come true.
This 6.1-mile trail skirts the Mount Diablo State Park and on clear days you can see all the way to the Sierra, Mount Shasta, and Mount Lassen. Check it out in late winter and you might be rewarded with a few wildflowers. This is a challenging hike in Northern California suited for more experienced hikers.
5. Tall Trees Grove Trail, Orick
Tall Trees Grove Trailhead Parking, Tall Trees Access Rd, McKinleyville, CA 95519, USA
This is a 3.5-mile loop trail that takes you down into a spectacular grove of Redwoods. Be sure to save some energy for the trip back up! These trees are some of the most impressive natural wonders in Northern California.
This moderate, seven-mile, lightly trafficked out-and-back trail, located near Klamath, CA, features a great forest setting and ocean views. Lovers of the great outdoors in Northern California will fall in love with this enchanting adventure.
7. Ladybird Johnson Grove Trail, Orick
Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail, Bald Hills Rd, Orick, CA 95555, USA
Named after the first lady who dedicated the Redwood National Park in 1968, this short but sweet 1.3-mile loop is popular with visitors to the redwoods. This beautiful hiking trail in NorCal is a must-add for every bucket list.
8. Manzanita Lake Loop, Lassen Volcanic National Park
This is a popular beginning snowshoe trail at Lassen, which is known for its snow sports opportunities. It's a 1.6-mile loop and at the time this picture was taken it was still accessible without snowshoes. Contact the park to learn when guided snowshoe tours will be offered this winter. This stunning hiking trail in Northern California is for the adventurous!
This 3.6-mile trail offers amazing views of the American River and the surrounding foothills. Dogs must be kept on a leash. Winter hiking in Northern California has never been so delightful!
10. The South Fork American River Trail, Coloma
South Fork American River Trail, Pilot Hill, CA 95664, USA
This 25-mile trail is another that is actually great to shorten and turn into day hikes. We don't advise camping out on this one, that is frowned on in this area. The trail links several parks located along the river, including Cronan Ranch and the David Moore Nature Area. Come see one of the most incredible hiking trails in Northern California while covered in snow.
Even in the most temperate of climates, it’s important to use more caution in the winter than you would at other times of the year. Bring layers, extra water, and snacks, and be sure to check the weather forecast before you leave! Aren’t we lucky to live in such a beautiful place that offers so many opportunities for winter recreation? We think so!
2. Where should I go hiking in Northern California?
Hiking in Northern California is amazing and can certainly be a year-round affair! Some of the best trails for hiking in Northern California (no matter the season) are:
Winter in Northern California tends to be the rainy season, during which it’s a bit colder than average. On average, though, sunny days in Northern California tend to see temperatures in the 50s and 60s. It rarely snows, and there are plenty of fun things to do in winter in Northern California, such as:
