Discover diverse landscapes with these top 3 hikes in California: Badwater Basin Salt Flats, Upper Yosemite Falls, and Rubicon Trail.
While California is most widely known for its sun-soaked beaches and glamorous cities, thanks to the incredibly diverse landscapes, the state is truly a hiker’s dream. For solo females exploring the area, there are plenty of stunning routes that make for a safe, enjoyable trek.
Top 3 hikes in California you shouldn’t miss
Of all the beautiful spots to explore, there are a few hiking trails you mustn’t miss. Coming up, we share three hikes in California you have to add to your travel bucket list.
Badwater Basin Salt Flats Trail
Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park is a geological marvel that was once an ancient body of water – it consists of a vast expanse of white salt pans encircled in rocky desert mountains. It sits at 282 ft below sea level, making it the lowest point in North America.
Badwater Basin is highly frequented, making it a safe spot for exploring solo. However, this barren landscape can be harsh – in summer, you’re advised not to hike between 10am and 4pm due to the extreme heat. No matter the time of year you choose to visit, be sure to bring plenty of sustenance and sunscreen, and wear appropriate clothing. If you can brave the conditions, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most spectacular views of the vast American wilderness.
Upper Yosemite Falls Trail
For a different type of hike, consider venturing out to Yosemite National Park. The Upper Yosemite Falls Trail is a historic route, having been built between 1873 and 1877. It’s a 7.6-mile round-trip that’ll bring you up to the very top of North America’s tallest waterfall, 2,425 ft above the valley floor. Here, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the entire park, including the Sierra Nevada mountain peaks and Half Dome summit. There’s plenty to see on your way up, too – stop off at Columbia Rock for a hard-earned break surrounded by breathtaking views across the valley.
This trail is incredibly strenuous, considering almost the entire route is an uphill climb. Because of this, it’s best to explore in the cooler months of spring or autumn to avoid the summer sun – and as with any hike, bring plenty of water. You should also make sure to stick to the signposted route, as you may encounter steep drops if you head off-trail.
Rubicon Trail
Rubicon Trail is one of the most popular hiking routes in Lake Tahoe – here, you can enjoy captivating views of the lake and its surrounding greenery. The entire trail is around 16.4 miles in length, so most adventurers choose to complete it over a couple of days. This offers a wonderful chance to set up camp by the shoreline overnight and get better acquainted with the sights and sounds of this stunning spot.
Rubicon Trail is partially uphill, but thanks to the dense surrounding woodland, it’s easy to find shade to stay cool. How you choose to traverse the trail is up to you – while some of the terrain is steep and rocky, there are flat routes for those new to hiking.
While this trail does get very busy, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings, particularly when traveling through remote sections of the woods. Similarly, if you’re planning on camping overnight, you’ll want to make sure you stick to designated campsites or bring a friend along for the journey.
A hiker’s paradise
No matter where you choose to hike in California, you’re guaranteed an exciting trip. Just be sure to pay attention to local safety advice and warnings to get the most out of your solo travel experience.