Search a hike or location

search
Best difficult hiking trails in San Mateo County
Share:

Best difficult hiking trails in San Mateo County

Got your game face on? These difficult trails are designed for hikers who are looking for a serious adventure...

Here are some great trails to explore in San Mateo County.

Most popular trails

1

Difficult

Montara Mountain Trail, Hazelnut Trail and Valley View Trail Loop

San Mateo County, California · star 4.0 (2) · 16.7 km · Est. 4 hrs 41 min

2

Difficult

Old San Pedro Mountain Road and North Peak Access Road

San Mateo County, California · star 5.0 (4) · 16.2 km · Est. 4 hrs 39 min

3

Difficult

Eaton Canyon Trail

San Mateo County, California · star 5.0 (3) · 6.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 48 min

4

Difficult

Skyline - Chinquapin - Dean - Crystal Springs Loop Trail

San Mateo County, California · star 4.0 (4) · 6.1 km · Est. 1 hrs 41 min

5

Difficult

Whittemore Gulch, Purisima Creek and Harkins Ridge Loop Trail

San Mateo County, California · star 5.0 (2) · 15.0 km · Est. 4 hrs 12 min

6

Difficult

Devil鈥檚 Slide Trail and Arroyo Trail Loop

San Mateo County, California · star 4.0 (3) · 5.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 35 min

7

Difficult

Chinquapin - Dean Loop Trail

San Mateo County, California · star 4.0 (8) · 8.5 km · Est. 2 hrs 26 min

8

Difficult

Madrone - Alambique Loop Trail

San Mateo County, California · star 4.0 (4) · 15.9 km · Est. 4 hrs 32 min

9

Difficult

Crystal Springs Trail and Richards Road Trail

San Mateo County, California · star 5.0 (1) · 4.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 39 min

10

Difficult

Gray Whale Cove Loop Trail

San Mateo County, California · star 4.0 (3) · 3.1 km · Est. 56 min

Show more hikes

Reviews for hiking trails in San Mateo County

Isidra Stiedemann avatar

Montara Mountain Trail, Hazelnut Trail and Valley View Trail Loop

CascadeForestrunner98 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Merrill Barton avatar

Old San Pedro Mountain Road and North Peak Access Road

AdventureSummiter27 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Miss Elane Heaney avatar

Eaton Canyon Trail

RidgeWoodsman33 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Fr. Garry Koelpin avatar

Skyline - Chinquapin - Dean - Crystal Springs Loop Trail

ForestTrailstar42 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Sherika Flatley avatar

Whittemore Gulch, Purisima Creek and Harkins Ridge Loop Trail

RavineLedgehopper56 路 reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions

What is the climate like for hiking in California?

California's vast geography results in diverse climates. Coastal regions, with their mild, Mediterranean climate, offer year-round hiking opportunities, though winter rains may muddy trails. In contrast, the inland valleys and desert regions are best hiked from October to April, as summer temperatures can be prohibitive.
The Sierra Nevada, famous for its mountains and forests, is popular in summer and fall. However, winter brings heavy snowfall, making trails inaccessible. Meanwhile, the pleasant climate of Southern California allows for hiking throughout the year, with cooler, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
To summarize, California's diverse climate offers year-round hiking opportunities, varying by region. Visit www.parks.ca.gov for more detailed information about specific trails and their recommended seasons.

Do I need a permit to hike in California?

Permits for hiking in California, particularly in wilderness areas or for overnight trips, are often required. Managed by the National Park Service, Forest Service, or Bureau of Land Management, permit processes vary. For more information, visit respective agency websites or www.recreation.gov for federal lands.

Is wild camping allowed in California?

Wild camping in California is generally permitted in national forests and Bureau of Land Management lands. However, restrictions apply, such as the requirement of a campfire permit. Always follow "Leave No Trace" principles. Detailed regulations can be found on agency websites like www.fs.usda.gov

Are there mountain rescue services in California?

In case of a hiking emergency in California, dial 911. Also, the California Office of Emergency Services coordinates search and rescue. The Mountain Rescue Association (MRA) has several units in California, with information available at www.mra.org. Always plan ahead and hike safely.

Are there dangerous plants in California?

California's flora varies widely, from coastal scrub and redwood forests to desert plants and alpine flora in the Sierra Nevada. This diversity can affect hiking experiences and trail conditions. For detailed information on California's flora, visit the California Native Plant Society website: www.cnps.org

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in California?

California's diverse habitats host a wide range of wildlife, from harmless squirrels to larger mammals like black bears. Ticks and mosquitoes may pose minor nuisances to hikers. Be aware of potential encounters, particularly with venomous snakes in desert areas. For more, visit https://wildlife.ca.gov/

More trails in San Mateo County

by difficulty

by type

by activity