Posted by My Store Admin
on October 03, 2025
Okay, hear me out!: hiking in California isn’t just about burning calories or posting that “summit selfie.” It’s about vibes. It’s about those little moments when the world feels way bigger than your to-do list the crunch of dirt under your sneakers, the salty air hitting your face, or that random butterfly that decides to vibe-check you mid-trail.
California trails hit different. They’re not just paths; they’re mini-therapy sessions. Some are chill strolls, some will absolutely wreck your quads, but every single one teaches you something. And yeah, we did the digging so you don’t have to. Here are 3 trails that will seriously level up your weekend.
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Lower Arroyo Seco Trail (Pasadena)
Think: hidden gem energy. This isn’t a “pack three protein bars and a hydration vest” kind of hike. It’s short, it’s sweet, and oh it has a labyrinth. Yes, a literal labyrinth carved into the dirt where you can walk in circles and drop your stress like yesterday’s bad vibes.
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Distance: 0.5 – 2.3 miles
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Vibe: Chill, meditative
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Dogs: Bring your pupper
Why go? Because sometimes you don’t need a mountain. You just need a moment.
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Ray Miller Backbone Trail (Malibu)
If you’re looking for “main character” energy, this is it. You’re walking up through wild coastal plants, the ocean starts peeking through the cliffs, and boom you’re suddenly in a movie trailer. By the time you hit the top, the Pacific is just flexing in front of you.
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Distance: 5.4 miles
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Vibe: Medium sweat, maximum payoff
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Dogs: Sorry, not here
Why go? Because nothing hits like catching that Malibu sunset after earning it with a climb.
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Vital Link Trail (Burbank, Verdugo Mountains)
This one? She’s a beast. Short on paper, but those switchbacks will humble you real quick. It’s steep, it’s sandy, there’s zero shade but if you push through, the views of L.A. are next-level. At the top, there’s even a random chair (yep, a literal chair) where you can sit and just exist.
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Distance: 3.8 miles
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Vibe: “Do I hate myself?” → “Wow, I did that.”
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Dogs: Yup, dogs allowed
Why go? Because nothing feels as good as proving to yourself you can do hard things.
California hikes is free therapy. Arroyo Seco for low-key mindfulness. Ray Miller for ocean drama. Vital Link for a sweaty self-discovery session.
So next time you’re scrolling TikTok wondering what to do this weekend lace up, grab your bottle (hi 👋 SIPLUSH), and let the trails remind you: the world’s too big to stay stuck inside.
