7 Totally Kid-Friendly Hikes In Northern California That Are 1 Mile And Under
There’s no better time to get out and explore our beautiful state than when the weather warms up and the need to be outside hit full force. Just picture it: the weather is perfect, wildflowers are blooming, and the skies are clear. What more could you ask for? Luckily for us, our state is absolutely full of hiking trails that are just begging to be explored. Check out these seven kid-friendly hikes around Northern California that are perfect if you have little ones. They’re short and sweet, but they boast some seriously epic views that are sure to leave an impression. While some might consider these to be the best hikes in Northern California, see for yourself which ones you would consider adding to your bucket list.
This beautiful hike is only 0.7-miles long but it sure does pack a punch. You'll find the trailhead in the Putah Creek Wildlife Area off of Highway 128. The trail does have a mild elevation gain as it leads you up a hill, but it's definitely doable by all skill levels. The trail boasts incredible views of lush green hills covered in trees that look like a scene taken straight from a storybook.
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You'll find this magical trail hiding in the Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park. This 0.7-mile hiking trail is the perfect way to explore this incredible forest. No matter what your age is, you can't help but be in awe of the massive giants surrounding you. The quaint hike is perfect if you're short on time but still want to experience the epic beauty of a redwood forest.
Click here to find out more about this NorCal hike.
3. Captain Jack's Trail, Tulelake
Tule Lake National Monument, 800 Main St, Tulelake, CA 96134, USA
This is another 0.7-mile loop trail. The official name is "Captain Jack's Stronghold", and with a name like that how you could resist it? You'll find it located in Lava Beds National Monument. This is a quick and easy way to explore a section of the monument and immerse yourself in the region's unique history. The trail will take you past all kinds of neat rock formations with fantastic views of the surrounding desert landscape.
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This charming waterfall trail is sure to blow you away. Potem Falls is a vastly underrated sight that everybody should experience at some point this spring and summer. Located in the Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, the trail itself is only half of a mile long but the sight at the end is something you'll always remember. The gorgeous Potem Falls plunges for 70 feet off of a cliff into the crystal clear pool below.
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Located in Lassen National Forest, this 0.6-mile trail takes you to one of the coolest underground caves you've ever seen. Be sure to bring a flashlight because the cave is pitch black. The hike into Subway Cave is short, but it's definitely memorable. Sturdy concrete steps have been built at both ends of the cave, making this stunning cave easily accessible for many.
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Located in the American River Parkway, this one-mile loop trail should take less than an hour and provides enough interesting scenery to keep the kiddos entertained and happy. The terrain is very easy, making this an enjoyable walk through a truly stunning park. The trail even follows the South Fork American River for quite some time, along with cool rock formations and trees. Hint: Some people say there are little dinosaurs hiding in the cracks of the rock walls! You'll have to visit this trail to find out for sure.
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The Patrick's Point Trail is an easy 0.2-mile hike. This picturesque trail contains some of the most incredible coastline views. You can't help but be totally mesmerized by the views as you stroll along this leisurely trail. You definitely don't want to forget your camera for this. There is a small fee to enter Patrick's Point State Park.
Click here to find out more about this NorCal hike.
Do you think these are some of the best hikes in Northern California? What’s your favorite kid-friendly hike in NorCal? Make sure to share with us in the comments section!
Address: Tule Lake National Monument, 800 Main St, Tulelake, CA 96134, USA
Address: Potem Falls, California 96003, USA
Address: Old Station, CA 96071, USA
Address: Golden Chain Highway, CA-49, Lotus, CA 95651, USA
Address: Patricks Point, CA 95570, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Hikes In Northern California
March 08, 2022
Marisa Roman
What are the most popular hiking trails near me in Northern California?
For anyone searching for the best hiking trails near me in NorCal, the good news is you’ll likely have a ton of results. In fact, we have 13 short and scenic hiking trails all throughout Northern California that are certain to make your afternoon. Start by meandering through the Boy Scout Tree Trail in Jedediah Smith State Park and then wind up at the Bridge Trail in Pescadero County Park.
What is the best scenic hike in Northern California?
Scenic hikes in Northern California are aplenty, so you’ll be in luck If this is what you’re hoping to find. We’ve compiled a list of 15 of the most scenic hikes in Northern California that will take you through some of the most gorgeous parts of the country. We’ve already mentioned Stout Grove Trail and Lassen Park above, but we also have Hammond Trail, Eagle Lake, and Ediza Lake Trail, too!
What are the most unique hikes in Northern California?
Whether you’re looking for a few easy hikes in Northern California or some of the best NorCal hikes, we’ve got you covered. This list of the 5 best hikes includes short and sweet treks, some salty ocean air, deep woods, and of course, some of the best scenery that Northern California has to offer.
Address: Putah Creek, California 95461, USA
Address: Crescent City, CA, USA
Address: Tule Lake National Monument, 800 Main St, Tulelake, CA 96134, USA
Address: Potem Falls, California 96003, USA
Address: Old Station, CA 96071, USA
Address: Golden Chain Highway, CA-49, Lotus, CA 95651, USA
Address: Patricks Point, CA 95570, USA
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