12 Outlandish California Rock Formations Worth Every Mile Of Hikes & Rough Driving

California is renowned for its diverse and breathtaking rock formations, many of which are accessible through scenic hikes and drives. Here are 12 outlandish California rock formations worth exploring:

1. Red Cathedral, Death Valley National Park

• Location: Death Valley National Park
• Features: A stunning red rock formation at the end of Golden Canyon, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape.
• Hike: The Golden Canyon to Red Cathedral Trail is a 3-mile round-trip hike with moderate difficulty.

2. Bumpass Hell, Lassen Volcanic National Park

• Location: Lassen Volcanic National Park
• Features: A geothermal area featuring bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles.
• Hike: The Bumpass Hell Trail is a 3-mile round-trip hike with moderate difficulty.

3. Pinnacles, Pinnacles National Park

• Location: Pinnacles National Park
• Features: Unique rock formations created by volcanic activity.
• Hike: The High Peaks Loop is a challenging 6.7-mile loop offering panoramic views.

4. Turk’s Turban and Camel Rock, Red Rock Canyon State Park

• Location: Red Rock Canyon State Park
• Features: Distinctive red rock formations named by Rudolph Hagen.
• Hike: A two-mile flat hike through Hagen Canyon offers views of these formations.

5. Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Death Valley National Park

• Location: Death Valley National Park
• Features: Easily accessible sand dunes with stunning views of surrounding mountains.
• Hike: No designated trail, but exploring the dunes is a must-do experience.

6. Joshua Trees, Joshua Tree National Park

• Location: Joshua Tree National Park
• Features: Iconic Joshua trees amidst unique rock formations.
• Hike: The Lost Horse Mine Loop offers views of these trees and historic mining sites.

7. Mount Shasta’s Rock Formations

• Location: Mount Shasta
• Features: Towering volcanic peaks with scenic hiking trails.
• Hike: The Bunny Flat to Horse Camp trail offers stunning views of the mountain.

8. Lassen Peak, Lassen Volcanic National Park

• Location: Lassen Volcanic National Park
• Features: A prominent volcanic peak with challenging hiking trails.
• Hike: The Lassen Peak Trail is a strenuous 5-mile round-trip hike.

9. Jumbled Rocks, Joshua Tree National Park

• Location: Joshua Tree National Park
• Features: Unique rock formations resembling a jumbled puzzle.
• Hike: Part of the California Riding and Hiking Trail.

10. Ryan Mountain, Joshua Tree National Park

• Location: Joshua Tree National Park
• Features: The highest point in the park, offering panoramic views.
• Hike: A short, steep hike to the summit.

11. Quail Mountain, Joshua Tree National Park

• Location: Joshua Tree National Park
• Features: The second-highest point in the park with stunning views.
• Hike: Part of the California Riding and Hiking Trail.

12. Bristlecone Pines, White Mountains

• Location: White Mountains
• Features: Ancient bristlecone pine trees amidst unique rock formations.
• Hike: The Bristlecone Discovery Trail offers a glimpse into these ancient trees.

Each of these formations offers a unique blend of natural beauty and geological significance, making them well worth the journey. SOURCES

1. https://www.wokewaves.com/posts/california-top-20-hikes
2. https://www.backpacker.com/trips/trips-by-state/california-trails/hike-the-california-riding-and-hiking-trail/
3. https://californiathroughmylens.com/red-rock-canyon-state-park/
4. https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/best-hikes-california/