The Ultimate Guide to Kid-Friendly Outdoor Hikes in California this Summer
California is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the United States, making it the perfect destination for families looking to explore the great outdoors. From the redwood forests to the rugged coastlines, there's no shortage of stunning scenery to discover. Here's our ultimate guide to kid-friendly outdoor hikes in California this summer:
Muir Woods National Monument
Muir Woods National Monument is located just north of San Francisco and is home to some of the tallest trees in the world. The park has a variety of hiking trails, including the easy and flat Main Trail, which is perfect for families with young children. Kids will love exploring the towering redwoods and spotting the many different species of plants and animals that call this park home. No matter the weather it’s important to bring a jacket with you. Like our All-Weather Hoodies that are really a raincoat in disguise!
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is located on the coast of central California and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The reserve has a variety of hiking trails, including the easy Cypress Grove Trail, which winds through a forest of cypress trees and offers panoramic views of the ocean. Kids can explore tide pools and watch sea lions and otters playing in the water.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is one of the most iconic national parks in the United States, known for its breath-taking granite cliffs and stunning waterfalls. The park has a variety of hiking trails, including the easy and flat Lower Yosemite Falls Trail, which is perfect for families with young children. Kids can also explore the park's many meadows and watch for wildlife like deer and bears. Bring a 10K Packaway Rainshell Jacket with you for those unpredictable summer days to keep the little ones dry.
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is located in Southern California and is known for its unique desert landscape. The park has a variety of hiking trails, including the easy and flat Hidden Valley Trail, which winds through a boulder-strewn landscape and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Kids will love exploring the park's many rock formations and watching for wildlife like lizards and snakes.
Big Sur
Big Sur is a rugged stretch of coastline located in central California, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The area has a variety of hiking trails, including the easy and flat Partington Cove Trail, which offers views of a secluded cove and the surrounding mountains. Kids can also explore the area's many beaches and tide pools, or go whale watching to spot gray whales as they migrate along the coast.
California is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and with so many stunning landscapes to explore, there's no shortage of kid-friendly hikes to choose from. From the towering redwoods of Muir Woods to the rugged coastline of Big Sur, there's something for every family to enjoy. Whether you're looking for an easy and flat trail for young children or a more challenging hike for older kids, California has it all. So pack your hiking boots and hit the trails this summer for an unforgettable family adventure in the great outdoors. If you’re in doubt about what to pack, explore all that Therm has to offer.