California's State Parks: A Day Hiker's Guide Book

Some states may have high mountains, vast deserts, or scenic coastline, but few can boast all of these features. California's glorious natural wonders are preserved in its state and national parklands, and chronicled here in a guide by John McKinney, hiking columnist for the Los Angeles Times for 18 years.

McKinney, known to his readers as "The Trailmaster," has identified the finest hikes that each parkland has to offer. In California's State Parks, McKinney has selected 150 of the best hikes in state parks, preserves, beaches, wilderness areas and historic sites, from the well known Anza-Borrego Desert State Park to lesser-known gems such as Manchester State Beach. McKinney's rousing descriptions of each park will inspire both first-time California travelers to explore the state by foot, as well as California residents in search of new trails. Also included are maps of each park, fun facts and natural and human history, scenic and historic photos, and the distance and elevation gain of each hike.