California's Hiking Wonderland: Deserts, Peaks, and Beyond

The Southern California to Central California hiking road trip spans from Palm Desert to Yosemite National Park.

Mt. Eisenhower offers breathtaking views on a 4.3-mile hike through Living Desert Zoo.

Murray Hill Loop suits beginners and intermediates; it is extendable to 7.1 miles and takes around 5 hours to complete.

Palm Canyon Trail, a shorter 2-mile hike, showcases canyon views and rock formations, featuring a small creek.

Mount Whitney, a challenging 20-mile hike, offers stunning High Sierra views with 6,000 feet of elevation gain.

Consider breaking up the Mt. Whitney hike or exploring nearby options like Red Mountain, Lone Pine Lake, or Cottonwood Lakes.

Yosemite National Park boasts various day hikes, accommodating different levels from easy 1-mile to strenuous 14-mile trails.

Half Dome hike, spanning 14-16 miles, presents iconic views for those seeking a challenge.

Beyond Yosemite, the Pacific Crest Trail in California offers customizable long-haul adventures, while Northern California holds more scenic hikes.