Hiking and Cycling the California Missions Trail: From Sonoma to San Diego (Pilgrim Route)

Ready for a long‑distance adventure with a bit of history, sunshine and classic California scenery? This guidebook takes you along the full 802‑mile California Missions Trail — a pilgrimage‑style route running from Sonoma all the way down to San Diego, linking all 21 Spanish missions founded over two centuries ago.

You can walk it at your own pace (most people take 50–60 days) or ride it — around 95% of the trail works perfectly for road bikes, making it a brilliant cycling challenge too.

The route is broken into 20 clear stages, from short-ish days to big mileage options, plus alternative suggestions for cyclists. You’ll get everything you need to plan your trip properly:

• Downloadable GPX files
• 1:100,000 maps plus detailed town maps for key stops
• Handy stage summaries and listings for pilgrim‑friendly accommodation
• Info on food, water and facilities along the way
• Practical planning and prep advice
• A look at the history of the missions and the Native American communities who shaped the land long before them

Whether you’re chasing a spiritual journey, a slow‑travel adventure, or a unique long‑distance ride, this guide gives you the confidence to take on one of California’s most iconic routes.