California is the second best state for hiking in US, new study says. What was No. 1?

California is one of the best states for hiking in the nation, according to a new study ranking the top U.S. spots for exploring the great outdoors.

The research team at GB The Green Brand, a website designed by and for cannabis growers, evaluated states based on factors including scenic beauty, elevation gain and the number of hiking trails.

Colorado took first place as the best state for hiking, earning a score of 79.8 out of 100 from the research team.

The state boasts the highest number of trails at 5,000 and the second-longest total trail length at 11,516 miles, GB The Green Brand said.

Colorado is also known for its diverse landscapes and relatively low precipitation, according to the study.

“Colorado trails offer mountain lakes with crystal-clear water and stunning views,” GB The Green Brand said.

Here’s how California ranked:

How does California rank for hiking?

California ranked second on GB The Green Brand’s list of top states for hiking, beating out Wyoming.

The Golden State garnered a score of 76.9, earning high marks for the scenic beauty of its stunning coastlines, dense forests and mountain ranges.

California had the longest total trail length in the nation: 18,467 miles.

The state ranked fifth for elevation gain, with a 6,656-foot trail leading up to the peak of Mount Whitney.

“Whether exploring the Pacific Crest Trail or wandering through redwood forests, California offers a suitable trail for every hiker,” GB The Green Brand said.

What are the best states for hiking?

These are the 10 best states for hiking in the United States, according to GB The Green Brand:

1. Colorado
2. California
3. Wyoming
4. Washington
5. Utah
6. Oregon
7. Arizona
8. Alaska
9. Montana
10. Maine

How did study come up with rankings?

Researchers for GB The Green Brand ranked states based on the following factors:

• Scenic beauty
• Number of hiking trails
• Total trail length in miles
• States with the highest elevation gains (10% Weight)
• Precipitation

Sources included World Population Review, USA.com, Destination Hikers and Thrillist.

Information about elevation changes came from Yonderlust Ramblings.

Angela Rodriguez

The Modesto Bee

279-386-2738

Angela Rodriguez is a service journalism reporter for The Bee. She is a graduate of Sacramento State with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. During her time there, she worked on the State Hornet covering arts and entertainment.