One of the more challenging and scenic routes to Mount Lee and the famous Hollywood sign. The Burbank Peak Trail and Aileen Getty Ridge Trail pass The Wisdom Tree and Cahuenga Peak.
A strenuous hike in the San Gabriel Mountains east of Los Angeles. It ascends up through Ice House Canyon to Ice House Saddle, then onto Telegraph Peak via the Three Ts Trail. The one-way hike finishes at Baldy Notch, with a scenic chairlift ride down to Manker Flat.
A strenuous but not overly challenging hike from the top of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the San Jacinto Peak. It offers spectacular views all the way from from the Wellman Divide up to the summit.
A fairly demanding Zion National Park hike, the East Rim Trail can be done in one long day or as an overnight walk. The trail crosses Echo Canyon before climbing up to the spectacular Observation Point lookout.
The Enepitsi Trail is an easy hike along the Santa Clara River, following an old pioneer road (with the option of exploring many ancient petroglyph sites).
Between the ocean and Mount Mars in the Silver Peak Wilderness is Thorndyke Top, which offers sweeping views of the ocean – on a clear day. Some off-track walking required.
The Bayshore Loop in the Everglades looks like an easy trail on the map – but be prepared for deep water, mud and relentless mosquitoes for most of the year.
An early morning start to tackle the steep hike up the Four Mile Trail to Glacier Point in Yosemite. A spectacular sunrise and views of Half Dome and the Yosemite Valley from the top.
A great walk to avoid the crowds of Yosemite Valley, the Chilnualna Falls Trail climbs steeply up past multiple cascades. Nice swimming holes and views at the top.
A short but steep climb to the top of Moro Rock in Sequoia National Park, a 6,725 feet (2,050m) granite dome. The summit offers spectacular, 360-degree views.