Sometimes you’re in the mood for getting out and experiencing the great Northern California outdoors, but you’re short on time. Fortunately for us, our state is home to numerous short and easy hikes that are perfect for taking a quick adventure when the mood strikes. Not only that, but these trails boast some seriously epic views that you’ll never forget and are some of the best hikes in Northern California. How many of these beautiful trails have you accomplished?

1. Flanagan and Chamise Peak Trail (Redding)
Chamise Peak, Redding, CA 96003, USA
Maria Jansson/Alltrails
This 4.6 mile out and back trail is located near Redding and offers up some downright jaw-dropping views of "all things Shasta". Shasta Lake, Shasta Dam, Mt. Shasta, etc. You name it, and you'll probably spot it on this trail! The trail starts at the Flanagan Road parking lot.
2. Lake Siskiyou Trail (Mount Shasta)
Lake Siskiyou, California 96067, USA
John Thomson/Alltrails
This is another trail located near Mount Shasta, but this time you'll be treated to incredible views of the beautiful Lake Siskiyou. The six mile trail circles the lake, providing plenty of shade as you traverse this stunning area. The flat trail makes it feel more like a leisurely stroll, but it's sure to become one of your new favorite spots to explore.
3. Mendocino Headlands Trail (Mendocino)
Mendocino Headlands State Park, Mendocino, CA 95460, USA
James R Wilson/Alltrails
As far as coastal hiking trails go, Mendocino is the place to be. The Mendocino Headlands Trail is four miles long and leads you along the rugged coastline. The views are simply magical. You'll definitely want to bring your camera for this one. The sight of the ocean water hitting up against the rocky bluffs is not to be missed.
4. Cascade Falls Trail (Tahoma)
Cascade Falls Trailhead, Cascade Dr, Mill Valley, CA 94941, USA
Jim F/Alltrails
This short trail is merely 1.4 miles long, but you'll never forget the epic payoff that it leads you to. Located on the west shore of Lake Tahoe, the trail leads you to a picturesque waterfall within Emerald Bay State Park with plenty of overlooks that provide awe-inspiring views of Tahoe, Emerald Bay, and Cascade Lake.
5. Waters Gulch Loop (Lakehead)
Waters Gulch, California 96051, USA
Lydia Palavicini/Alltrails
Located within Shasta National Forest, this 3.3 mile trail follows the gulch down to the shore of the lake before taking you towards Packers Bay. The lake views are downright awesome, and this would be the perfect hike to take on a hot day when you can cool off in the lake!
6. Burney Falls Loop (Burney)
Burney Falls, California 96013, USA
Jeffery Kudsk/Alltrails
Burney Falls is by far one of the most beloved waterfalls in the state. It's an iconic sight in Northern California that must be witnessed. Fortunately, the hike to the falls is short and sweet. It spans merely one mile with a very small elevation gain. You'll find the trail within McArthur Burney Falls Memorial State Park. Although the waterfall is a popular tourist attraction all year long, spring is truly the best time to witness the falls.
7. Historic Donner Pass Trail (Donner)
Donner Pass, California 96161, USA
Barbara This/Alltrails
This is another iconic hike in Northern California that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. The 5.5 mile loop trail takes you through several segments of abandoned train tunnels, boasting breathtaking views of Donner Lake in the distance.
8. Gertrude Ord Trail (San Anselmo)
Phoenix Lake Trail, California 94904, USA
shasta valdez/Alltrails
Located in Marin County, the Gertrude Ord Trail is the perfect way to experience the gorgeous Phoenix Lake. This is a popular trail, and you'll often find it populated with other hikers, bikers, and trail runners. Parking is limited so be sure to get there early (early morning is best). The trail offers sublime peace and quiet in a beautiful setting.

What easy hikes would you add to this list? Check out our list of 11 Of The Best Northern California Hikes Under 2 Miles for more simple and fast hikes.

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Best Hikes In Northern California

Spencer Schneider | March 31, 2022

What are the best scenic hikes in Northern California?

California is known for its scenic beaches and deserts, and Northern California is no different. However, many of the most scenic views in Northern California are among the seaside cliffs overlooking the ocean and are unlike those in the rest of California. If you are looking for some of the best scenic hikes in Northern California, look no further.

Devil’s Slide Trail

If you are looking for a bit of an easier hike, Devil’s Slide Trail in Pacifica is the one for you. This hiking trail was actually created out of the old Highway 1 that traveled down the California coastline and brings you along the cliffs towering over the Pacific Ocean. This 1.3 mile trail has plenty of benches and even observation scopes so you can rest and get better views of the beautiful coastline below. This trail is also popular with bikers looking for wonderful views.

Rubicon Trail

The Rubicon Trail is a long 16.4 mile hike found in D. L. Bliss State Park near South Lake Tahoe. This long meandering hike will have you looking over the beautiful Lake Tahoe for the entire hike as you hike through forests, meadows, and around little coves that you can find around the edges of the lake. If the weather is right, these little coves are perfect for a quick mid-hike swim where you can take a break and cool off with views unlike any you’ve seen before.

Yosemite Falls Trail

You can’t make a list of the most scenic Northern California Hikes without mentioning Yosemite. The Yosemite Falls Trail in Yosemite National Park gives you incredible views of the waterfalls, El Capitan, and Half Dome, all in one 7 mile hike that you won’t want to miss. While it’s not an easy hike, the views will be well worth the effort.

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