Welcome to the ultimate list on the hiking trails where you need to look out for mountain lions.
Population Distribution and Numbers
The mountain lion population in the United States is estimated to be between 20,000 to 40,000 individuals.
They are most commonly found in the western states, such as California, Colorado, and Arizona, where large, undeveloped wilderness areas provide suitable habitats. Mountain lions have also been expanding their range eastward, with confirmed sightings in states like Missouri and even Connecticut.
Conservation Status
Mountain lions are classified as a species of “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), but their status varies significantly across different states.
In states like California, they are protected and cannot be hunted, while in other states, they are managed through regulated hunting to maintain a balance with human activities and livestock protection. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation and reducing human-wildlife conflicts to ensure sustainable populations.
Runyon Canyon, California
Located in Los Angeles, this popular hiking spot is known for mountain lion sightings. It’s a hotspot due to its proximity to the wildlands of the Santa Monica Mountains.
Mount San Antonio (Mount Baldy), California
A favorite among hikers in Southern California, this area is known for its rugged terrain and frequent mountain lion activity. The vast wilderness provides a natural habitat for these big cats.
Eldorado Canyon State Park, Colorado
Located near Boulder, this park is known for its scenic beauty and challenging trails. Mountain lion sightings are not uncommon due to the dense forests and rocky landscapes.
Saguaro National Park, Arizona
This park, split into two districts near Tucson, offers a variety of hiking trails. The rugged terrain and abundant wildlife make it a prime location for encountering mountain lions.
Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, California
Situated in San Diego County, this park features extensive hiking trails through mountainous and forested areas. Mountain lions are frequently spotted here due to the vast natural habitat.
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, California
Encompassing a large portion of the Santa Monica Mountains, this area is known for its beautiful hiking trails and regular mountain lion sightings. The expansive wilderness provides an ideal environment for these predators.
Big Bend National Park, Texas
This vast park along the Rio Grande is home to diverse wildlife, including mountain lions. The rugged landscape and remote trails make sightings more common.
Pinnacles National Park, California
Known for its unique rock formations and challenging hikes, this park in Central California is also a habitat for mountain lions. Hikers should stay alert, especially in the more isolated areas.
Los Padres National Forest, California
Spanning nearly two million acres, this forest offers numerous hiking trails where mountain lions are often seen. The dense forest and mountainous terrain provide an ideal habitat.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
While not as frequent as in the western states, mountain lion sightings do occur in this park. The vast, dense forests and remote trails make it possible to encounter these elusive animals.
When hiking in these areas, it’s crucial to stay vigilant, make noise to avoid surprising a mountain lion, and know how to react in the rare event of an encounter.
As a little kid, I fell in love with nature, wildlife, and animals. Living in the USA, South Africa, Italy, China and Germany gave me the opportunity to discover the world's Wildlife. My favorite animals are Mountain Gorillas, Siberian Tigers, and Great White Sharks.
I'm a certified PADI Open Water Diver, went to Everest Base Camp and Trekked Gorillas in Uganda. I hold a Master of Science in Economics and Finance.
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