The state of California is packed with amazing attractions. It caters to a wide variety of tastes and abilities, with some of the best treks in the world being in California, from the state's breath-taking beaches and islands to its plethora of national parks.

Hiking opportunities can be found in every corner of California, leaving you with a difficult decision to choose.

Therefore, before you travel to California, it's a good idea to research the state's top hiking destinations. Here is a list of some of the best hikes on offer, so get your water bottle and walking shoes ready and enjoy!

1. The John Muir Trail

The John Muir Trail is not a trail for a casual day trip, spanning a whopping 211 miles (340 km).

Often described as a "once in a lifetime" trek. Most people don't walk the entire trail, so don't feel obligated to.

You'll get to experience all three of the national parks that make up the eastern end of the Pacific Crest Trail, beginning with Yosemite and concluding with Sequoia, while hiking the John Muir Trail (JMT) from Fresno.

One of the best walks in California, with breathtaking views along the way. Among California's national parks, this one has some of the most stunning views.

This is especially true because you will be surrounded by mountains that are over 14,000 feet (4260 meters) tall, countless mirror-like lakes, deep valleys, and sparkling granite cliffs.

The Painted Lady of Rae Lakes should also be on your itinerary. A beautiful location in King's Canyon National Park.

Also, before leaving Sequoia National Park, you can visit General Sherman (the tree).

A note: At 14,505 feet (4,421 meters), Mt. Whitney is the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States' lower 48 states, so be sure to keep an eye out for it while you trek

2. The Wallace Creek Trail - Along the San Andreas Fault

The San Andreas Fault Line Trail at Carrizo Plain National Monument is among the top hiking destinations in the state.

The best part is that this hike won't break the bank or your back and is doable by people of varying fitness levels and experience. The hike itself is roughly 3 kilometers long and should take you between 2 and 3 hours to finish.

Located close to Mc Kittrick, it's a great place to see the San Andreas Fault line. In addition, spring is a great time of year to go as you’ll get to see all the blooms

3. The Joshua Tree Canyon View Trail and the Short-Loop Trail

The Short Loop Trail is one of the top treks in California for getting to know the Joshua Tree National Park region, and it's only a little more difficult than other popular trails like Wallace Creek.

Across 10 kilometers the elevation gain is less than 300 meters, meaning there are not too many steep ascents along this trail.

But if you go in the winter, you should know that you might get caught in some snow flurries, so pack accordingly.

4. Pacific Crest Trail

Hikers all around the world know about the Pacific Crest Trail, a beautiful path that stretches for 4,265 kilometers (2,650 miles) from Mexico to Canada.

Although this is not something you can do in a day, you can hop on different parts of it (much as you would a motorway) to experience some of California's finest trails.

Most hikers opt for shorter, more manageable segments, but the entire trail is doable with enough time and stamina.

The trail begins near the Mexican border in Tijuana, climbs towards Los Angeles, turns East of Fresno and Sacramento, and continues north into Oregon.

Make sure to bring your camera because you'll be traveling through the Sequoia, Yosemite, and Klamath national parks — three of the most well-known in the United States.

5. Morro Bay's Black Hill Trail

This one-kilometer (km) stretch along the Pacific coast of northern California is a delight to follow for a leisurely stroll.

As of right now, the trail is rather level and surrounded by breathtaking scenery, particularly to the north-west over Morro Rock.

It's a lovely walk that's enjoyable for people of all ages on a warm summer day. Additionally, if you're up for a lengthier stroll, you can extend the hike to about 5 kilometers.

If you're looking for the trailhead, you can locate it near the end of Parkview Drive. If you're still having trouble, you may also view the route on Google Maps.

6. Eaton Canyon Trail

Just north of Pasadena, the Eaton Canyon Trail is a popular destination for hikers who prefer a more well-known and established trail. You'll find one of the finest hikes in California, and it's an easy one for seasoned trekkers. Also, at only 6 kilometers away, you're never too far from civilization.

The sunset views of Altadena below are particularly breathtaking.

Hike to Eaton Canyon Falls while you're there, too; it's stunning. However, you'll need to bring footwear suitable for getting wet because you'll need to wade through tiny streams and navigate around large boulders.

Parking may be problematic on the weekends due to the high volume of visitors. If you enjoy hiking but find crowds annoying, plan your hike during the week.

7. Black Star Canyon Trail

In Black Star Canyon, to the northwest of Silverado, you'll find a trail with fewer hikers and more peace and quiet.

Some people consider this 25-kilometer (about 16-mile) trek to be moderate, however it can be challenging for some due to its distance.

The key is to prepare for the hike ahead of time and to bring enough supplies to last the entire distance. The last thing you want to be is a reckless hiker.

The falls at Black Star Canyon should also be on your itinerary.

8. The California Coastal Trail

The magnificent California Coastal Trail is a must-hike for anybody visiting California. One of the best walks in California, especially for a group or as part of a challenge.

Environmental groups have been striving to build a route that stretches for 1,200 miles (1931 km) from North to South along the Pacific Coast in California in an effort to protect the state's coastlines and make them more accessible to the public.

If you enjoy being by the water, this is the perfect hike for you. Don't forget the swimsuit and the sunscreen!

9. Canyon Loop Around Hoegee's Campground (Sierra Madre)

The 50-foot (15-meter) tall Sturtevant Falls may be reached by hiking a loop trail that is 4.7 miles (7.5 km) long and is located just to the east of Pasadena, close to the Sierra Madre.

The trail begins at Hoegee's Campground and can be enjoyed by people, canine companions, and equine friends from January through September. A few of the stops you'll make en route include Mt. Wilson, Chantry Flat, and Mt. Zion Junction. It's a must-do if you're looking for a great hike in California.

Warning: you'll need an adventure pass to get on this somewhat difficult trek.

10. The Simpson-Reed Hiking Trail (Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park)

This 1.6-kilometer (1-mile) loop through Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park in Northern California is not just simple but also beautiful.

You'll take a stroll through a grove of ancient trees, including some of the world's oldest redwoods that are over a thousand years old. There isn't a better trek in California, yet it's also one of the most accessible.

An excellent way to locate this ostensibly "hidden" trailhead is to get off of US-199 at Walker Road and drive North for approximately a mile and a half before reaching the trailhead sign on the East (right) side of the road.

11. Mist Trail and Half Dome, (Yosemite National Park)

Yosemite National Park's Half Dome is a challenging climb up the Mist Trail that is not for the faint of heart.

 Half Dome is the most photographed landmark in the park, but only a select few are granted the opportunity to scale this challenging rock face each year.

The popularity of the trail has resulted in a quota system being put in place by the park; therefore, it is highly recommended that you purchase your climbing tickets in advance.

If you start your journey around Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls on the Mist Trail, you'll have a total of 22.9 kilometers (14.2 miles) to cover on your return trip. The trail then continues upward to Half Dome's peak, where wires have been placed due to the extreme steepness of the peak.

Anyone who is afraid of heights should not attempt this climb.

Expert advice: reserve your permit in advance to avoid disappointment. There is usually more demand than there is supply, and spaces fill up quickly.

12. Yosemite Falls Hiking Path (Yosemite National Park)

Yet another Yosemite route, but the park has some of the best California walks and are enjoyed by everyone.

Not to worry if you weren't able to make it to Half Dome for the climb. Although the Falls Trail is popular, there are many more trails to explore in Yosemite.

The highest waterfall in the continent can be reached at the end of this challenging 7.2-mile (11.5-kilometer) walk. The trail was constructed between 1873 and 1877, making it one of the oldest in Yosemite.

As a pro tip, if you want to see the waterfall in all its glory, you should go hiking in the spring or early summer.

13. Hollyridge (Los Angeles)

The Hollywood sign in Los Angeles, what else could be more recognizable?

Hiking up the Hollyridge Trail, not only do you get fantastic views of the sign, but also of the surrounding landscape. Now, the trailhead parking lot tends to fill up quickly, so the North Canyon Drive Parking area would be your best bet (but that does result in a longer hike).

This 1.23-kilometer (1.2-mile) trek is popular among sightseers who want to take a picture of the iconic sign. The trail is accessible from October through February and is suitable for horses and dogs.