Frequently Asked Questions
Yosemite's Mist Trail is the most iconic day hike — 5.4 miles round trip past Vernal and Nevada Falls. Half Dome (14 miles, permit required) is the ultimate bucket-list hike. In the redwoods, Fern Canyon is surreal and easy. Runyon Canyon in LA offers great city views. Big Sur's McWay Falls trail is short and stunning. Each region of California has a completely different hiking personality — granite domes, coastal bluffs, desert canyons, and old-growth forests.
Yes, with the right spot. Huntington Beach, San Onofre, and Linda Mar (Pacifica near SF) all have gentle, forgiving waves ideal for first-timers. Water temperature varies dramatically — Southern California ranges 58-72°F, while Northern California stays in the low 50s year-round (wetsuit mandatory). Take a lesson ($80-120) for your first session. Avoid heavy surf spots like Mavericks and the Wedge until you have serious experience.
Guides are recommended for Joshua Tree rock climbing (especially multi-pitch), Mount Shasta summit attempts, whitewater rafting, and La Jolla sea cave kayaking. Self-guided works well for Yosemite day hikes, Big Sur cycling, Runyon Canyon, redwood forest walks, and Golden Gate Bridge biking. National park ranger programs are free and excellent for first-time visitors to Yosemite and Sequoia.
California offers year-round outdoor activities, but timing matters. Summer (June-September) is best for Yosemite, Mammoth hiking, redwoods, and Northern California. Fall (September-November) brings the best surf and pleasant temperatures statewide. Winter (December-March) is ski season at Mammoth and perfect for Joshua Tree climbing. Spring (March-May) brings wildflower superbloom years and great rafting flows. Southern California beaches work year-round.
Layers are essential — California weather changes dramatically with elevation and latitude. Bring sunscreen (year-round), a wetsuit for surfing or swimming north of Santa Barbara, proper hiking boots for rocky terrain, and a lightweight rain jacket for Northern California. For Yosemite and the Sierra, carry bear canisters for overnight trips. Bring more water than you think — desert hikes at Joshua Tree are deceptively hot.
Many of California's best outdoor experiences are affordable. National park entry is $35/car (or $80 for an annual pass covering all parks). Surfboard rental is $15-25/day. Bike rental for the Golden Gate Bridge is $15-30. Guided activities range from $80 for a surf lesson to $300-500 for a Mount Shasta guided climb. Mammoth lift tickets run $150-200/day. A daily adventure budget of $30-60 per person covers entry fees and basic gear rental.