The 10 Best Easy Mountains to Climb in California

California is a beautiful state, with a wide variety of climates and landscapes. The geography of this area includes mountainous areas, as well as coastal regions. California is home to the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States the likes of, Mount Whitney also known as the highest point within the Great Basin. For mountain climbers, California State offers mountains of varying difficulty and accessibility. Let's have a look at the 10 Best Easy Mountains to Climb in California.

10. Mount Tamalpais State Park (Mill Valley CA)

This mountain stands at a height of 2572 feet. It is amenable to all kinds of outdoor activities like camping, fishing, and kayaking. You can also find many different trails that are perfect for hiking or mountain biking. Climbing this mountain is rated as easy or intermediate. That means that it's a great mountain for beginner and advanced climbers alike. You can find many different routes to the summit, so you can choose one that is the perfect level of difficulty for you. According to Trek Baron, the amenable weather and the forgiving terrain make this mountain a great choice for anyone looking for an easy climb. Since it is located in the area of semi-coastal Marin County, this mountain serves the community as an important watershed. The mountain is also home to many different kinds of plants and animals, so it's a great place to go for a nature hike. You might even see some rare and endangered species if you're lucky. The views from the top of Mount Tamalpais State Park are stunning. It provides amazing hiking opportunities and is an excellent place to take your family.

9. San Jacinto Peak (Banning City, CA)

The San Jacinto Peak measures over 10,000 feet and is one of the most popular mountains to climb in California. The mountain has a steeper elevation than others being given a "walk-up" rating. What this means is that you can comfortably walk from the bottom to the top of the peak without being compelled to use your hands. It is a hike that will be a perfect workout for your legs and will take you through some of the most beautiful views. You will notice that even though the San Jacinto Peak is a climb, it has an easy rating. Some trails fit every group, ranging from easy to moderate. You can also camp at or near the peak during the weekends.

8. Alabama Hills (Independence, CA)

Alabama Hills is located in the Owens Valley, east of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. According to Planet Ware, the area is known for its unique rock formations and natural arches. Several easy trails wind through the rocks and offer views of the Sierra Nevada. Standing at a height of 400 feet, Alabama Hills is one of the easiest mountains to climb in California. It is best suited for sports climbing and rated as intermediate difficult. You can enjoy a day of hiking and climbing in Alabama Hills since it has numerous easy trails. The area is also great for camping, so you can make a weekend trip out of it.

7. Mount Diller (Palo Cedro, CA)

Mount Diller stands at a height of 9087 feet and is located in the Lassen Volcanic National Park. Its difficulty level is rated as medium to low. Most hikers take around five to six hours to complete the journey. The elevation gain is not too steep. It's a great hike for the whole family. You can choose different routes and stay at campgrounds along the way. There is a lot to enjoy in the area. The views are spectacular and you'll be amazed at the natural arches and rock formations. You can also take a hike up to the summit of Lassen Peak if you're looking for an extreme climb or challenge.

6. The Santa Monica Mountains (Calabasas, CA)

The Santa Monica Mountains offer a variety of trails for different skill levels, making it a great place to start your mountain climbing journey. With over 500 miles of trails, you can take your pick of where to start. For an easy hike, try the Backbone Trail which winds through the mountains for 26 miles. Standing at 3,111 feet, this mountain offers great views of the surrounding area. Rated as intermediate in difficulty because of the warm weather in the area, be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection.

5. Eagle Peak: Mount Diablo (Walnut Creek, CA)

This mountain stands at 2369 feet and is located in Mount Diablo State Park. It is considered to be an easy mountain to climb and is a great place for beginners. There are a variety of activities you will enjoy while visiting this mountain such as hiking, camping, and picnicking. The trails are well-maintained and provide stunning views of the surrounding area. In addition to that, you can also find a natural arch and two rock formations that have been named after Wild West outlaws Jesse James and Butch Cassidy. This mountain is also famous for its spectacular vistas, so you're sure to get a good spot to take your photos.

4. Mount Whitney (Independence, CA)

Mount Whitney stands at 14505 feet tall and is part of California Sierra Nevada. Climbing this mountain is a popular bucket list item. The Mount Whitney trails are rated as difficult, with an elevation gain of over 6000 feet. According to The Planet, there are several campsites along the way to the summit, which makes it a great option for an overnight trip. There are also many trails to the summit, and you will find one that suits your level of experience. You enjoy vast views of the landscape from the top.

3. San Gorgonio (San Bernardino, CA)

The San Gorgonio Mountain is quite tall standing 11,500 feet above sea level and is the tallest peak in Southern California. It is also known as "Old Greyback”, and is one of the six "ultra-prominent" peaks in the contiguous United States. It is a popular site for trials, camping, and backpacking. The fish creek trail for example is a very popular trail that many people use to hike up the mountain. There is a lot to enjoy while climbing San Gorgonio.

2. White Mountain Peak (Independence, CA)

The White Mountain Peak stands at 14,246 feet and is one of the easiest mountains to climb in California. It is part of the larger Inyo-White Mountains. Several trails lead to the summit, the most popular being the South Face route. This trail is about seven miles round trip and takes you through some beautiful scenery. The difficulty rating for this mountain is intermediate.

1. Mount Baldy (San Bernardino, CA)

This mountain stands at 10,064 feet tall and is also known as Mount San Antonio. Several activities can be done here such as hiking and climbing. It is a snow-topped peak that is popular for winter sports. There are several routes to the top of the mountain all of which are considered moderate difficulty. You can hike this mountain all year round and the best time to the summit is during the summer.