Traveling - it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller". - Ibn Battuta
Leaving California was one of the most challenging decisions I have made. As I pack up my belongings, I am flooded with bittersweet memories of the experiences I have had here and the friends I have made.
California is one of the most diverse and beautiful states in America, from hiking in the mountains to surfing in the ocean and enjoying the scenery all in one day.
As a resident of this beautiful state, I have had the opportunity to explore many of these fantastic destinations and experiences. I want to share some of my favorite California outdoor adventures with you in this blog post.
One of my favorite pastime hobbies/one of California’s most popular outdoor activities is hiking. The state is home to some of the country’s most beautiful and scenic hiking trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), which stretches over 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada. The trail passes through some of the most stunning landscapes, including the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe, and the Mojave Desert.
I enjoy a variety of trails, from a leisurely walk in the park to literally being lost in the mountains getting chased by Bighorn Sheep, an experience I will never forget! Some of my favorite trails, in no particular order, are The Bridge to Nowhere (moderate), Trial Canyon Falls (mild), Solstice Canyon Loop (moderate), Backbone Trail to Sandstone Peak (intermediate), Cooper Canyon Falls Trail (medium), and Ladder/Painted Canyon trail (mild).
Some of the peaks I have completed over the years are Mt. Baldy, Mt. Wilson, Mt. San Jacinto, Cucamonga Peak, Mt. Balden Powell, and many more.
These hikes pose a challenge of many miles of high incline elevation and fatigue. It is the best feeling of getting to the top, admiring how far one has come, and breathing in the fresh aroma of nature.
One of California’s most iconic outdoor adventures is hiking in Yosemite National Park (NP). Luckily I have caught a glimpse of the majestic environment. Yosemite is home to some of the world’s most beautiful and awe-inspiring landscapes, with massive granite cliffs, towering waterfalls, and ancient sequoia trees. The park offers over 800 miles of trails for hikers of all levels, from strolls to challenging multi-day treks. My favorite hikes in Yosemite include the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls, the Half Dome, and the Tuolumne meadows.
By far, my favorite memory in Yosemite was white water rafting the Merced River with a group of friends. It was a challenge navigating the extreme bone-chilling rapids and swift currents, but we were in great hands, thanks to the experienced instructor. With my GoPro, I had my first view of the river sitting in front of the raft. I highly recommend trying it if you ever get the chance!
Water activities:
California’s coastline offers some of the world’s best surfing and beach destinations. Places like Santa Cruz, Malibu, and Huntington Beach are popular destinations for surfers and beachgoers alike.
I had my first surf session in Ventura and nearly got swooped away by the ocean, but that story is for another time! As far as kayaking, there are so many gorgeous spots to kayak. My favorite spots are La Jolla Cove in San Diego, Laguna Beach in Orange County, and the Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard.
Each of these spots is unique, but what they have in common is that you can kayak next to sea lions—an unforgettable experience and a daily getaway during the Summer months to cool off and enjoy the ocean.
California is also known for its many sea caves along the coast. An adventure in itself any time I get to explore a new coastal town; it is one of the things I look for! My favorites are El Matador Sea Cave, Sunny Jim Cave in La Jolla, and the dangerous one near Thousand Steps Beach.
Camping/backpacking
California is known for camping. The state has diverse camping options, from rustic tent camping to luxurious RV parks. Some of the best camping destinations in California include Yosemite NP, Sequoia/Kings Canyon NP, Joshua Tree NP, Big Sur, and the Redwoods NP along the coast of northern California. Regarding backpacking, California is a goldmine with so many backpacking trails, from a weekend excursion to a month-long backpacking Catalina Island trip and so much more.
Outdoor rock climbing:
If you’re looking for a unique and thrilling outdoor adventure, rock climbing in California is a must and is known for its massive boulders and rock formations that attract climbers worldwide.
Rock climbing is a great full-body exercise that is challenging and rewarding. My favorite climbs were in my backyard at Vasquez Rocks State Park (SP). These rock formations were created over 100,000 years ago; it makes for some great bouldering and photography opportunities.
Another unique climbing experience was at Point Dume, these are breathtaking cliffs beside the ocean that you can either hike up or climb up with all of the correct gear. All of the scrapes and bruising that I received in climbing to the top were worth the view of the ocean and the mountains!
Museums/Theme Parks/Concerts and Festivals:
When I am not doing any outdoor activities, I attend one of the various museums in California, such as the Getty Museum and Getty Villa (the Getty Museum is in Los Angeles, and Getty Villa is in Malibu overlooking the ocean) to the Huntington Library and botanical gardens.
Each place is a phenomenal experience, from the beautiful paintings and art displays to the luscious and diverse plant life. I was blown away by the beauty and cultural aspects each museum offers.
I am a kid at heart, and theme parks are my jam. Six Flags Magic Mountain was 15 minutes from my house; it’s an easy choice to get my extreme thrill on. My favorite rides include Goliath, Twisted Colossus, and Superman!
However, my favorite moment was getting to attend the Harry Potter Hogwarts at Universal Studios. I could not contain my excitement of reliving my childhood; it was like ” being a kid in a candy store” with a massive smile on my face, and I enjoyed being present at the moment.
Lastly, the vast number of concerts and festivals in California is to take advantage of! My first concert in California was Shinedown at the Pantages Theater. They put on a phenomenal show! One of my favorite festivals was attending the Lucky Brews Lucky Grooves at the House of Blues in Anaheim, CA, on St. Paddy’s Day. Being there, I discovered Red Trolley Ale by Karl Strauss Brewing Company.
However, as much as I will miss California, I know it is time for me to move on. Life is full of new experiences and opportunities, and I am excited to see what the future holds.
Still, it’s hard to say goodbye to the memories and friends I have made here. Some of them have saved my life.
As I close the door on this chapter of my life, I am grateful for all the experiences, memories, and friendships California has given me. I will carry all the love, lessons, and laughter you have shared.
I’m grateful for the moments of joy we’ve experienced together and the challenges that have helped me grow and learn. I will always cherish the memories we spent creating. Though it’s difficult to leave, I am ready to embrace new adventures and create new memories in my next life phase.
As always, do what you love, and do it often! Till the next adventure…
About
Caleb Young graduated from California State University, Northridge, with a BA in Psychology, envisioning becoming a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) working with active duty military/families/veterans. Caleb has volunteered with various mental health nonprofits, including You Matter Not Alone, Working Dogs For Warriors, and Heroes Project. He enjoys reading/writing, Jiu-Jitsu, and exploring the great outdoors. Follow Caleb on Instagram and Facebook .