8 Easy Spring Hikes in Northern California With Beautiful Views

If you're an outdoor lover, an increase in temperature usually awakens a burning desire to get out and explore Northern California's outdoors. With the amazing weather we've been experiencing lately, this desire should not be ignored! Get out and explore our natural areas by taking one of these simple spring hikes. These trails are rated easy, so hikers of all skill levels can experience the beauty they offer. How many of these best spring hikes in Northern California have you done before?

1. Bay View Marsh Trail

Located in Point Pinole Regional Park in San Pablo, this trail boasts stunning panoramic views of the bay along with breathtaking grasslands and even a eucalyptus forest. This section of the Point Pinole shoreline is a hidden gem with an overwhelmingly serene atmosphere. You'll definitely want to take your time traversing the 4-mile loop trail.

Visit AllTrails to see a trail map and learn more about one of the most scenic spring hikes in Northern California.

2. Seven Lakes Basin

For a trail with mesmerizing views you won't soon forget, try exploring Seven Lakes Basin in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest via the Pacific Crest Trail. This trail is long at 8.4 miles out and back. However, it's rated as easy and boasts some of the most spectacular scenery of Northern California's crown jewel—Mount Shasta.

To see a trail map and to learn more about one of the best hikes in Northern California, visit AllTrails.

3. Cosumnes River Walk

For a lovely hike featuring lots of shade and plenty of greenery, visit the river walk trail in the Consumnes River Preserve south of Sacramento. The 3-mile loop trail is incredibly relaxing, leading you around the preserve. You'll have awesome views of the river and plenty of forestry. The trail is well-marked and extremely flat with lots of boardwalks and bridges to traverse.

To see a trail map and to learn more about one of the most beautiful scenic hikes in Northern California, visit AllTrails.

4. Avery's Pond

Explore Avery's Pond in the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area via the Pioneer Express Trail. Spring is the perfect time to visit this lovely trail, as the area is home to plenty of wildflowers and shaded areas. Be aware that there is an entry fee for the park, but it gives you all-day access to the beautiful lake, which is stocked with rainbow trout.

Visit AllTrails to see a trail map and to learn more about Avery's Pond in Northern California.

5. Bumpass Hell Trail

This is one of those "must-do" hikes in Northern California, and spring is the perfect time to do it. The Bumpass Hell Trail in Lassen Volcanic National Park offers perfect views of the park's otherworldly landscape. Here you will come across boiling pools, mud pots, and sulfur vents galore. It's one of the most incredible easy hikes in Northern California.

6. Sacramento River Trail

The Sacramento River Trail in Caldwell Park is a notable family-friendly hike that offers a little bit of everything. Gorgeous views of the river, plenty of trees, and not one but two lovely bridges (including the epic modern marvel known as Sundial Bridge).

Read our previous coverage to learn more about one of the best hikes in Northern California.

7. UC Davis Arboretum Trail

The UC Davis Arboretum is roughly 100 acres of glorious natural beauty. Take the 3.6-mile loop trail through the arboretum, which leads you through several gardens as you walk along the side of Putah Creek. The garden is free to visit and open 24 hours a day. The UC Davis Arboretum Trail is also ideal if you're looking for kid-friendly hikes in Northern California.

To see a trail map and to learn more about one of the most scenic hikes in Northern California, visit AllTrails.

8. Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail

This easy stroll near Orick, California, lets you experience the glory of a beautiful redwood forest if you're short on time. The loop trail is just over one mile long and very flat. It's perfect for families or those who just want to take a nice, simple walk through a stunning forest. It's another wonderful trail that's one of the best kid-friendly hikes in Northern California.

To see a trail map and to learn more about one of the best spring hikes in Northern California, visit AllTrails.

What's your favorite spring hike in Northern California? Do you know of any additional best spring hikes in Northern California? And before you head out on the trails, make sure to download the handy AllTrails+ app. I happen to love this app with all of its features, especially the ability to download offline maps.

Want more exploration ideas? Check out these 11 Amazing Natural Wonders Hiding In Plain Sight In Northern California. For more Northern California adventures, visit Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.