Welcome to the Trail

Every trail tells a story—come walk with me

I’ve made a career out of telling people to take a hike.

Not in the way you’re thinking—though I’ve probably meant it that way once or twice—but as an invitation. An invitation to get outside, to walk a little farther, to see what’s just around the bend.

For years, I’ve told those stories in books, in newspapers, and on trails all across California. But the truth is, I’ve always felt that hiking is about more than where you go.

It’s about what you notice.
What you remember.
What stays with you long after the trail ends.

That’s why I’m starting this newsletter.

Each week, I’ll share a favorite California hike—not just where to go, but the story behind the place. The history, the characters, the small details that turn a walk into something more.

Think of it as part trail guide, part campfire story.

If you love California—the coast, the mountains, the deserts, the state parks and national parks—you’re in the right place.

I’ve spent a lifetime walking these trails.

Now I get to share them with you.

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Every Trail Tells a Story

This short video says it better than I ever could in print.

It’s the idea that’s guided every mile I’ve walked and every story I’ve told.

Hike on with The Trailmaster John McKinney:

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Walk with me each week. Subscribe to the Trailmaster Newsletter

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What You’ll Find Here

Each week, I’ll take you somewhere worth walking.

Not just directions—but stories.

• Trails across California—coast, mountains, deserts, and forests
• The people, history, and small details most hikers miss
• A weekly reason to step outside

Because a trail isn’t just a line on a map.

It’s an experience waiting to happen.

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California State Parks — 280 of ‘em.
Who knew?

I’ll admit it—I’m a bit obsessed with California State Parks.

Over the years, I’ve hiked and written about all 280 of them. And here’s something most people don’t realize: more than half are true “hiker parks,” with over 3,000 miles of trail threading through redwoods, deserts, coastlines, and mountain ranges.

A few are famous.

Many are not.

Those are the ones I especially love to share.

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California’s National Parks —
Icons and Beyond

California has more national parks than any state in the country—nine in all.

You’ll find the giants here: Yosemite, Sequoia, Joshua Tree.

But you’ll also find quieter corners—places like Point Reyes, Lava Beds, and Mojave—where the crowds thin out and the stories deepen.

I’ll take you to both.

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A Final Thought

If you stick with me, you won’t just find new places to hike.

You’ll see familiar places differently.

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California always has another trail waiting.

Hike On,
John McKinney
The Trailmaster

Every trail tells a story.

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If this speaks to you, please share with your fellow hikers.

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