California is a paradise for active travelers, and the San Francisco Bay Area and Wine Country offer some of its most rewarding hiking. Our self-guided trips let you explore at your own pace. Trails wind through towering redwood forests, along sweeping ridgelines and around sparkling bay shorelines, and each night you stay in a charming boutique hotel.

Start in San Francisco, where the Barbary Coast Trail traces the city's Gold Rush history from Fisherman's Wharf and Ghirardelli Square. Walk across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito, then climb the famous staircases of the Dipsea Trail toward Mount Tamalpais. Stand among centuries-old redwoods more than 250 feet tall in Muir Woods National Monument. Continue through Mill Valley and follow the San Francisco Bay Trail to Tiburon, with views of Angel Island and Alcatraz along the way.

North of the city, Napa and Sonoma pair great hiking with world-class wine. Hike Sonoma's ridgelines for sweeping valley views, explore historic Sonoma Plaza and Mission San Francisco Solano, and follow trails through redwoods and vineyards. In Napa Valley, visit the Bale Grist Mill and hike the redwood forests of Bothe-Napa Valley State Park before relaxing in Calistoga. Toast each day with tastings, including California's oldest winery and a sparkling wine cave. Join us on a self-guided hiking trip in California.

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Why travel with us

Self Guided Active Travel Experts

As the pioneers of self guided active travel in California you can expect a seamless experience. Our quality tour notes and logistical expertise sets us apart and ensures a quality experience for you.

Exceptional value for money

Quality services at the best price make our active California hiking & cycling trips great value for money. Having essential items included like National Park fees, accommodations, most meals, bikes for cycling trips, maps and support for peace of mind. Our inclusions allow you to better budget for your active adventure.

Innovative itineraries

We look beyond the horizon to find new and exciting adventures. We’re passionate about shaping the next generation of outdoor travel in North America, and constantly seek different ways, routes and alternatives to exceed our clients’ dreams.

Bike information

Hybrid Bikes

We take great pride in providing high-quality bikes from preferred brands such as Specialized or Trek. Depending on your trip you will have the choice between a road bike (drop handles, thinner tires), hybrid bike (cross between a mountain bike and touring bike), or E-Bike with an alloy or carbon frame and top-quality components. All bike rentals come with a flat repair kit, water bottle cages, helmet, lock, and lights.

Electric Bikes

Worried about your fitness? An electric bike, or e-bike, provides a pedal boost to help make the hills or longer days a little easier. All bike rentals come with a flat repair kit, water bottle cages, helmet, lock, and lights.

Responsible travel

Great American Trails is committed to responsible travel and true sustainability. It was a commitment formed when our parent company, World Expeditions, was established in 1975, and today, in the face of a multitude of threats to global environments and cultures, our commitment is stronger than ever. Over several decades we have honed our responsible travel philosophy and are continually assessing and improving initiatives that are practiced in the field to ensure that we are mitigating our impact to the smallest possible footprint. By joining a hiking or cycling tour, you too are making a concerted effort to minimize your impact when you travel. Learn more about our Thoughtful Travel policies and practices.

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