Category: Distance

Posted on

Hiking the Arnold Rim Trail to the “Top of the World”

The Sierra Nevada Mountain Range can be seen from the "Top of the World" on the Arnold Rim trail with snow caps in the distance.
The Sierra Nevada Mountain Range can be seen from the “Top of the World” on the Arnold Rim trail with snow caps in the distance.

The Arnold Rim Trail is a hike through a part of the Stanislaus National Forest that leads to a fantastic point dubbed the “The Top of the World” where the view is incredible. From the Sierras, you can see over to the Coastal Range and Mount Diablo nearly 90 miles away on a clear day.

Continue reading “Hiking the Arnold Rim Trail to the “Top of the World””

Posted on

Hiking Upper Ritchey Canyon at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park

The forest at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park on the Upper Ritchey Canyon Trail are recovering from a fire that occurred in 2020.
The forest at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park on the Upper Ritchey Canyon Trail are recovering from a fire that occurred in 2020.

The hike to Upper Ritchey Canyon at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park is challenging, but along the way you can see a forest that is in recovery from a fire that burned through parts of it in 2020.

Continue reading “Hiking Upper Ritchey Canyon at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park”

Posted on

Hiking Dipsea Trail To Muir Woods National Monument

The Dipsea Trail at Mount Tamalpais State Park hikes you though the serenity of the tall trees.
The Dipsea Trail at Mount Tamalpais State Park hikes you though the serenity of the tall trees.

This hike takes you under lush canopy at Mount Tamalpais State Park, up steep stairs, gives you a fantastic view overlooking the Pacific Ocean, and then you hike among the Redwoods at Muir Woods National Monument. But it’s also difficult for me to get excited about this hike.

Continue reading “Hiking Dipsea Trail To Muir Woods National Monument”

Posted on

Hiking Old Man’s Beard and Sam the Eagle at Moore Creek Park

A trail is cut through an oak forest foothill during the springtime when the grasses are green and lush.
Old Man’s Beard at Moore Creek Park can be green and beautiful in the springtime.

Like the other hikes we’ve done at Lake Hennessey, Old Man’s Beard and Sam the Eagle trails at Moore Creek Park are pleasant when hiked in the springtime with green hills, wildflowers as the foliage is coming back to the trees.

Continue reading “Hiking Old Man’s Beard and Sam the Eagle at Moore Creek Park”

Posted on

Hiking Grand Canyon Of The Yellowstone To Ribbon Lake

Lower Yellowstone Falls from Artist Point.
The view from Artist Point at Yellowstone National Park of Lower Yellowstone Falls and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone can be spectacular.

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is an incredible sight to see and hike along in Yellowstone National Park. From different vantage points, you can marvel at Lower Yellowstone Falls. The forest along the hike was tranquil and mediative, and once we left the crowds, we probably saw a little more than a dozen people.

Continue reading “Hiking Grand Canyon Of The Yellowstone To Ribbon Lake”

Posted on

Hike to Darwin Falls at Death Valley National Park

Darwin Falls is a spring-fed waterfall at Death Valley National Park.
Darwin Falls is a spring-fed waterfall at Death Valley National Park.

A waterfall at Death Valley National Park? Yep, there certainly is, and the hike to Darwin Falls is pretty easy for the most part.

The hike starts off from the parking lot and follows a Darwin Wash back to the waterfall. We didn’t start to notice water until about .7 miles from the trailhead that flowed from the waterfall in a stream. As we ventured further back, we went from a dry desert wash to trees, cattails and other greenery, including ferns, fed by the water.

Continue reading “Hike to Darwin Falls at Death Valley National Park”

Posted on

Hiking the Maze at Joshua Tree National Park

The desert landscape on the Maze hike is full of desert vegetation, trees, and land formations.
The desert landscape on the Maze hike is full of desert vegetation, trees, and land formations.

I’ve heard for years about The Maze at Joshua Tree National Park, and I finally got the opportunity to hike it. Maybe it was because of the hype I heard that I was expecting more than what it offered, but even with that said, I was in no way disappointed.

Continue reading “Hiking the Maze at Joshua Tree National Park”

Posted on

Hiking Lost Palms Trail at Joshua Tree National Park

Hiking to the Lost Palms Oasis at Joshua Tree National Park is like hiking through a garden in the desert.
Hiking to the Lost Palms Oasis at Joshua Tree National Park is like hiking through a garden in the desert.

Hiking to Lost Palms at Joshua Tree National Park is like hiking through a desert garden. If you’re up for hiking through the desert, there really is a lot to see as far as plant life goes on this hike, along with great landscape vistas.

On this hike, you will more than likely come across cholla cacti, indigo bush, jojoba, California juniper, creosote bush, mistletoe, Mojave yucca, Mormon tea, barrel cacti, granite rock, palm trees, but no Joshua trees in this part of the park.

Continue reading “Hiking Lost Palms Trail at Joshua Tree National Park”

Posted on

Hiking Skull Rock Nature Trail and Split Rock Trail at Joshua Tree National Park

The desert landscape at Joshua Tree National Park is striking, but pictures do not do it justice. It needs to be experienced to be truly appreciated.
The desert landscape at Joshua Tree National Park is striking, but pictures do not do it justice. It needs to be experienced to be truly appreciated.

This is the hike that made Joshua Tree National Park my favorite park. The Skull Rock Nature Trail/Split Rock Trail for me were over the top with scenery and ease. The video below and pictures do not do it justice. This hike needs to be experienced.

Continue reading “Hiking Skull Rock Nature Trail and Split Rock Trail at Joshua Tree National Park”

Posted on

Mist Trail To Nevada Fall in Yosemite National Park

Nevada Fall in Yosemite National Park from a distance running down the granite rock with forest trees in the fore and background.
Nevada Fall in Yosemite National Park is a stunning waterfall.

The hike from Yosemite Valley up to Vernal Falls and then over to Nevada Falls is incredible, and one of many of many spectacular attractions of Yosemite National Park. But even hiking through the beauty of the forests, it does take work to make it to the top of either waterfall.

Continue reading “Mist Trail To Nevada Fall in Yosemite National Park”

Posted on

Backpacking to Rancheria Falls in Yosemite National Park

Rancheria Falls in Yosemite National Park.
Rancheria Falls in Yosemite National Park can be stunning to watch from a vantage point off the trail leading to the campground.

At the right time of the year, backpacking to Rancheria Falls in Yosemite National Park can be beautiful with wildflowers all around, Wapama Falls with its powerful gushing water, and almost the constant views of the blue waters of the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir.

Continue reading “Backpacking to Rancheria Falls in Yosemite National Park”

Posted on

Hiking Redbud Trail to Baton Flat

The Redbud Trail meanders through the oak laden hillsides of the Cache Creek Natural Area.
The Redbud Trail meanders through the oak laden hillsides of the Cache Creek Natural Area.

Originally posted June 8, 2018
Updated April 30, 2023

We hiked Redbud Trail in April 2023 after the California’s massive rainstorms earlier in the winter and spring.  What resulted were superblooms in locations. For as often as I have hiked the Redbud Trail, I have never seen the wildflowers on the trail I saw in late April. The wildflowers included Indian Paintbrush, Warrior Paintbrush, Common Fiddlestick, Western Wallflower, Diogene’s Lantern, and many other colorful wildflowers.

Hiking the Redbud Trail as it meanders along hillsides next to oak trees and descends down to Baton Flat and  Cache Creek is a pleasant hike through the foothills.

The trail starts off out of the parking lot on a service road and then to the right you’ll see a sign with Redbud Trail marked on it. Take the trail away from the road and hike along the edge of the foothills until you come to a creek bed that you have to cross. Continue reading “Hiking Redbud Trail to Baton Flat”

Posted on

Hiking Steep Ravine/Matt Davis Loop at Mount Tamalpais State Park

The Matt Davis Trail at Mount Tamalpais offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean.
The Matt Davis Trail at Mount Tamalpais offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean.

The Steep Ravine Trail at Mount Tamalpais State Park is a beautiful trail to hike, and I’ve written about it previously. I combined this trail with the Matt Davis Trail to make a loop on the west side of Mount Tamalpais.

Continue reading “Hiking Steep Ravine/Matt Davis Loop at Mount Tamalpais State Park”

Posted on

Hiking the Grand Loop at Mount Diablo State Park

The view from Mount Diablo can be stunning when the surrounding hills are green.
The view from Mount Diablo can be stunning when the surrounding hills are green.

The views from Grand Loop Hike at Mount Diablo  State Park are sweeping from all directions, and we wanted to see what we could see from the grand loop hike. While worth it, this is not an easy hike.

We hiked the trails that circled the top of Mount Diablo in February to see the hills when they were green and to avoid summer heat exhaustion and dehydration issues. The scenery was beautiful, and we could see into downtown San Francisco in the distance as we looked out from above the Juniper Campground on an offshoot trail.

Continue reading “Hiking the Grand Loop at Mount Diablo State Park”

Posted on

Hiking Mountain Trail to Sonoma Mountain Ridge Trail at Jack London State Historic Park

The view from the nearly the end of the Sonoma Mountain Ridge Trail looks into the distance to Mount Diablo.
The view from the nearly the end of the Sonoma Mountain Ridge Trail looks into the distance to Mount Diablo.

While the jewel hike at Jack London State Historic Park is the Mountain Trail to its highest point, another good hike is the Sonoma Mountain Ridge Hike.

The hike starts off on the Lake Trail to London Lake from the Upper Parking Lot. As you begin, you hike past a picnic area, winery ruins and the distillery and turn and hike past a vineyard. Follow Mountain Trail which is a service road next to the wooded area. We stayed on Mountain Road as we passed an intersection where another trail leads to the London Lake.

Continue reading “Hiking Mountain Trail to Sonoma Mountain Ridge Trail at Jack London State Historic Park”

Posted on

Hiking Trojan Point to McKennan Gulch Trail via the Coast Trail at Mount Tamalpais State Park

The view from the Coast Trail on Mount Tamalpais from the north the south can offer a stunning green and blue contrast.
The view from the Coast Trail on Mount Tamalpais from the north the south can offer a stunning green and blue contrast.

If the weather is right, the views from the Coast Trail on Mount Tamalpais of the Pacific Ocean can be striking. During the right time of the year, the hills are beautifully green with a beautiful blue ocean background to the west, or sweeping green hills as you look north and south.

Continue reading “Hiking Trojan Point to McKennan Gulch Trail via the Coast Trail at Mount Tamalpais State Park”

Posted on

Hiking Moses Spring Trail to Bear Gulch Reservoir at Pinnacles National Park

A hiker enters a cave on the Moses Springs Trail to Bear Gulch Reservoir at Pinnacles National Park.
A hiker enters a cave on the Moses Springs Trail to Bear Gulch Reservoir at Pinnacles National Park.

The hike to Bear Gulch Reservoir at Pinnacles National Park starts off on the High Peaks Trail as you hike under oak trees and ascend to the Moses Spring Trail junction.

As the trail ascends, you start to hike amongst rock formations that take you to the caves on the Moses Spring Trail. If you are not comfortable with caves, there is a bypass trail that will also take you to Bear Gulch Reservoir on up past the Moses Spring Trail junction that leads to the Rim Trail, but the caves are worth exploring. Continue reading “Hiking Moses Spring Trail to Bear Gulch Reservoir at Pinnacles National Park”

Posted on

Hiking Meadow Trail to Mt. Wittenberg Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore

While the grasses and some of the undergrowth along the trails in the Meadow Trail/Mt. Wittenberg Trail area at Point Reyes National Seashore are green, many of the trees are burned out from a 2020 fire that swept through the area.
While the grasses and some of the undergrowth along the trails in the Meadow Trail/Mt. Wittenberg Trail area at Point Reyes National Seashore are green, many of the trees are burned out from a 2020 fire that swept through the area.

Meadow Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore up to Sky Trail is a tough climb, but sometimes the rewards are great if you like wildlife. Both times I hiked the trail I was treated to seeing Black Tail Deer once in a meadow and once running in the forest.

Continue reading “Hiking Meadow Trail to Mt. Wittenberg Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore”

Posted on

Hiking Fern Canyon/James Irvine Trail in Northern California

The ancestry of the ferns in Fern Canyon at Prairie Redwoods State Park can be traced back 325 million years.
The ancestry of the ferns in Fern Canyon at Prairie Redwoods State Park can be traced back 325 million years.

Fern Canyon on the Northern California Coast is a very green must do hike. The 50-foot high walls are covered with ferns that include lady fern, wood fern, five-finger fern, deer fern, leather leaf fern, and sword fern, and their lineage can be traced back 325 million years. Fern Canyon is beautiful, and as well as the James Irvin Trail.

Continue reading “Hiking Fern Canyon/James Irvine Trail in Northern California”

Posted on

Hiking Crags Trail to Castle Dome at Castle Crags State Park

A pair of crags tower over the end of the Crags Trail at Castle Crags State Park.
A pair of crags tower over the end of the Crags Trail at Castle Crags State Park.

Iwon’t sugar coat this. The hike to Castle Dome at Castle Crags State Park is not easy… especially on a hot day.

The hike starts off easy enough on the wide Root Creek Trail under forested canopy, but then you come to a junction about .3 miles in where you make a left turn, and then the climbing begins. Roughly after 500 feet, you will intersect with and cross over the Pacific Crest Trail.

Continue reading “Hiking Crags Trail to Castle Dome at Castle Crags State Park”

Posted on

Hiking Creamery Meadow, Bluffs, Panorama and Ridge Trail at Andrew Molera State Park

The view from Panoramic Trail looking over the Pacific Ocean from above the marine layer.
The view from Panoramic Trail looking over the Pacific Ocean from above the marine layer.

Andrew Molera State Park at Big Sur offers beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and the nearby mountains. While the hike to see some of the views is challenging in places, it is worth it.

Continue reading “Hiking Creamery Meadow, Bluffs, Panorama and Ridge Trail at Andrew Molera State Park”

Posted on

Hiking Silver Lake to Spanish Peak in the Bucks Lake Wilderness

The view from the top of Spanish Peak is vast and sweeping with Mt. Lassen vaguely visible in the distance.
The view from the top of Spanish Peak is vast and sweeping with Mt. Lassen vaguely visible in the distance.

In 2021,  the Dixie Fire burned much of the area, so the landscape may be different now than when we were there about a month or so before the fire occurred.

Hiking to Spanish Peak from Silver Lake in the Plumas National Forest is not easy, but the views are a spectacular payoff. The terrain is diverse. You start off in the forested area at Silver Lake, then you hike exposed over granite as you climb, and then you hike through forested areas again.

Continue reading “Hiking Silver Lake to Spanish Peak in the Bucks Lake Wilderness”

Posted on

Hiking the Historic Orchard at Jack London State Historic Park

The Historic Orchard at Jack London State Historic Park once produced apples, apricots, pears, plums, and prunes.
The Historic Orchard at Jack London State Historic Park once produced apples, apricots, pears, plums, and prunes.

The hike to the Historic Orchard at Jack London State Historic Park is mild. The one-time 100 acre orchard once produced apples, apricots, pears, plums, and prunes. The orchard is a casual hike, but getting there is a hike up and down hills and through forests.

Continue reading “Hiking the Historic Orchard at Jack London State Historic Park”

Posted on

Hiking Sunset Trail, Mount Livermore and North Ridge Trail on Angel Island

The views from the top of Angel Island offer a 360 degree view of the San Francisco Bay.
The views from the top of Angel Island offer a 360 degree view of the San Francisco Bay.

The views from the top of Mount Livermore on Angel Island State Park of the San Francisco Bay are incredible on a clear day. You can see the San Francisco Skyline, the East Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge and the hills of Marin County and much more.

Continue reading “Hiking Sunset Trail, Mount Livermore and North Ridge Trail on Angel Island”

Posted on

Hiking Vasquez Rocks Natural Park Area

The iconic Vasquez Rocks, made famous by Star Trek and other films and television are a fantastic place to hike.
The iconic Vasquez Rocks, made famous by Star Trek and other films and television are a fantastic place to hike.

See and stand where Captains Kirk and Picard once stood. If you’re a Star Trek fan, you’ll recognize the Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park where several episodes and movies from the franchise have been filmed over the decades. But it’s also a really neat hiking place. Continue reading “Hiking Vasquez Rocks Natural Park Area”

Posted on

Hiking Cronan Ranch: River Trail to West Ridge Trail Loop

On a clear day, from Sky Ridge Trail at Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park, you see the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range as you look east.
On a clear day, from Sky Ridge Trail at Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park, you see the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range as you look east.

Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park is a playground of trails in the foothills. We hiked in the valleys and over high points that showed off the snowcapped Sierra Nevada Mountain range in the distance.

On this hike, we covered portions of several trails on our 11.5 mile hike. We hiked the River Trail to the Gerle Loop Trail; Down and Up Trail to the Cronan Ranch Road; South Fork American River Trail to the West Ridge Trail. We hiked back to the Cronan Ranch Road and the Down & Up Trail to Sky Ridge Trail. We reconnected with the Connector Trail and back to the Gerle Loop Trail. Wow, that’s a lot of trails!

Continue reading “Hiking Cronan Ranch: River Trail to West Ridge Trail Loop”

Posted on

Hiking the Burma Blast at Mount Diablo State Park

The views from Mount Diablo are far and sweeping.
The views from Mount Diablo are far and sweeping.

This hike up Burma Road, the Burma Blast, at Mount Diablo State Park is a son of a b*tch. So a friend really wanted to this hike because it was labeled the “the toughest hike in the Bay Area.” I don’t know if it’s the toughest, but it was a challenge. And the views over the Bay Area, to the north, east and south were worth it.

Continue reading “Hiking the Burma Blast at Mount Diablo State Park”

Posted on

Hiking Mountain Trail to Cowan Meadow Trail

The view from the high point on Mountain Trail at Jack London State Historic Park is spectacular.
The view from the high point on Mountain Trail at Jack London State Historic Park is spectacular.

Jack London State Historic Park is becoming one of my favorite places to hike. It has redwoods, oak forests, foothills, ridges and very scenic views. The hike up Mountain Trail to High Point is worth the effort and is spectacular.

The hike starts off on the Lake Trail to London Lake from the Upper Parking Lot. As you begin, you hike past a picnic area, winery ruins and the distillery and turn and hike past a vineyard. Follow Mountain Trail which is a service road next to the wooded area. We stayed on Mountain Road as we passed an intersection where another trail leads to London Lake.

Continue reading “Hiking Mountain Trail to Cowan Meadow Trail”

Posted on

Hiking Snow Mountain East Peak

The view from Snow Mountain East Peak into the Sacramento Valley.
The view from Snow Mountain East Peak into the Sacramento Valley.

As when I wrote about my hike to the West Peak of Snow Mountain, the same two words apply: “peaceful desolation,” but the scenery has drastically changed since 2018 when I was there last.

A little less than a month after I hiked to the West Peak, the Ranch Fire broke out, and the area was closed for nearly two years for restoration. Then it was opened it up, but then the August Fire broke out in 2020, and the forest closed back down for a few months.

Continue reading “Hiking Snow Mountain East Peak”

Posted on

Baton Flat to Wilson Valley (Redbud Trail)

The hike along Redbud Trail takes you through the scenic foothills of the Cache Creek Wilderness Area.
The hike along Redbud Trail takes you through the scenic foothills of the Cache Creek Wilderness Area.

This is a continuation of the Redbud Trail summary I wrote about in 2018. The total length of Redbud Trail (one way) is about 7.5 miles to Wilson Valley where it meets the Judge Davis Trail at Cache Creek. To read about the first 2.5 miles of the hike, see my Redbud Trail to Baton Flat summary. We pick up here at Baton Flat.

Continue reading “Baton Flat to Wilson Valley (Redbud Trail)”

Posted on

River Canyon Trail at Calaveras Big Trees State Park

"This

River Canyon Trail at Calaveras Big Trees State Park is the poorest maintained trail I’ve ever hiked. Parts of the trail should be closed as a safety hazard due to the poor upkeep of it. If the trail were maintained, this could be a really nice hike through the forest down to the North Fork of the Stanislaus River. Instead, I should have worn my heavier off-trail boots for parts of this trail.

I hate to start the hiking season off with a downer summary, but I want to get the word out before anybody might consider going to this state park.

Continue reading “River Canyon Trail at Calaveras Big Trees State Park”

Posted on

Hiking Sky Trail to Sculptured Beach at Point Reyes National Seashore

Sky Trail is a beautiful hike meanders along greenery and under pine trees.
Sky Trail is a beautiful hike meanders along greenery and under pine trees.

Sky Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore is an awesome hike, and at the right time of the year when the wildflowers are in bloom, it’s a feast for the eyes.  For the most part, the hike is not too difficult and is actually relaxing as you hike under the pine forests next to ferns and greenery.

Continue reading “Hiking Sky Trail to Sculptured Beach at Point Reyes National Seashore”

Posted on

Hiking Bald Mountain at Sugarloaf State Park

The view from Bald Mountain is sweeping. This panoramic photograph does not capture the curvature of the earth as you turn 360 degrees to look around you.
The view from Bald Mountain is sweeping. This panoramic photograph does not capture the curvature of the earth as you turn 360 degrees to look around you.

You have to work for it, but the view from the top of Bald Mountain is spectacular on a clear day. What makes it so spectacular is that as you take in a 360 degree view from the top, you can see the earth curve as you turn your head from landmark to landmark in all directions – something no picture can capture.

Continue reading “Hiking Bald Mountain at Sugarloaf State Park”

Posted on

Hiking Deafy Glade to Summit Springs

Once you climb high enough, you look out into the Sacramento Valley from the Deafy Glade Trail.
Once you climb high enough, you look out into the Sacramento Valley from the Deafy Glade Trail.

Deafy Glade Trail is a butt kicker. After about a mile in and a creek crossing, it’s 3.5 miles of climbing that pulls on your calves, hamstrings and other lower body muscles. If you want buns of steel, this trail can make it happen for you. The view from the top where the Deafy Glade Trail meets the Summit Springs Trail offers views down into the Sacramento Valley and even the Sutter Buttes on a clear day.

Continue reading “Hiking Deafy Glade to Summit Springs”

Posted on

Hiking Bear Valley to Kelham Beach at Point Reyes National Seashore

Sandy Kelham Beach at Point Reyes National Seashore is backed by a cliff wall along its expanse.
Sandy Kelham Beach at Point Reyes National Seashore is backed by a cliff wall along its expanse.

Bear Valley Trail is probably the most popular trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and I’ve hiked it countless times. This family-friendly trail is wide and follows the Bear Valley Creek under lush canopy almost all the way where it intersects with the Coast Trail.

Continue reading “Hiking Bear Valley to Kelham Beach at Point Reyes National Seashore”

Posted on

Hiking Smittle Creek Trail

Lake Berryessa
Lake Berryessa

The hike on the Smittle Creek Trail is an easy rolling hill hike along the shores of Lake Berryessa, but it really isn’t that impressive. I hiked it in the fall, but it may come alive in the spring when the hills are green and wildflowers are in bloom. I’m told this trail is popular with birdwatchers. I’m not knocking this trail… it has its place, and viewed in context, it makes for a pleasant Sunday stroll with a picnic by the lake. Continue reading “Hiking Smittle Creek Trail”

Posted on

Hiking to Lake Margaret

Lake Margaret is surrounded by granite on most of its shores.
Lake Margaret is surrounded by granite on most of its shores.

Lake Margaret is a beautiful back country lake in the Eldorado National Forest just 2.5 miles from the trailhead.

But don’t let that short mileage fool you. While the hike is pleasant and moves through forested areas, next to small bodies of water, and during the right time of year it is very flowery and green. There are, however, some challenges to overcome. Continue reading “Hiking to Lake Margaret”

Posted on

Hiking to Scott’s Lake is full of Fall Color

The fall color along the trail to Scott's Lake can be unbelievable.
The fall color along the trail to Scott’s Lake can be unbelievable.

If you hike the trail to Scott’s Lake in the fall when the aspens are turning color, it will knock your socks off.

The hike starts off at the trailhead parking lot just off Highway 89 on Luther Pass, which is part of the larger Tahoe Rim Trail. You hike a pleasant .1 a mile before you come upon Highway 89 and have to cross it. Listen for traffic, as you should be able to hear it before you can see it coming around the two corners. Continue reading “Hiking to Scott’s Lake is full of Fall Color”

Posted on

Hiking Lyons Creek Trailhead to Lake Sylvia

Lake Sylvia with its clear water sits up high at 8050 feet in Desolation Wilderness.
Lake Sylvia with its clear water sits up high at 8050 feet in Desolation Wilderness.

Lake Sylvia is a beautiful lake at 8050 feet in the Sierra Nevadas at the base of Pyramid Peak. The lake is small and beautiful, and the water is clear. It’s also idyllic and lined by pine trees on all but the northeast end, where you can look up at Pyramid Peak.

Continue reading “Hiking Lyons Creek Trailhead to Lake Sylvia”

Posted on

Hiking Fleming Trail Loop in Eldorado National Forest

Hiking among the trees on the Fleming Loop in the Eldorado National Forest is a place that offers peaceful contemplation.
Hiking among the trees on the Fleming Loop in the Eldorado National Forest is a place that offers peaceful contemplation.

If you’re in the frame of mind for this type of trail, the Fleming Meadow Loop rocks. There are no sweeping vistas, not an abundance of wildflowers or much running water – just a hike among the trees in some areas with very dense forest. My experience was awesome for contemplation and meditation.

The Fleming Meadow Loop in the Eldorado National Forest is one of the best marked and maintained trails I’ve come across in a national forest. When you hike Trail 8, you will come across many junctions with roads and other trails, but Trail 8 is marked so it is easy to follow. This trail is taken advantage of by hikers, mountain bikers, equestrian riders and the locals who know its secret. Continue reading “Hiking Fleming Trail Loop in Eldorado National Forest”

Posted on

Hiking to Feather Falls

Feather Falls in Butte County plummets more than 400 feet down into the Feather River.
Feather Falls in Butte County plummets more than 400 feet down into the Feather River.

How can you be a hiker in Northern California and not hike to Feather Falls? The falls are an awesome to sight to behold, and the hike isn’t so bad either – depending on when you go and the condition of the trail. At about .4 miles from the trailhead, you’ll have decision to make when you come to fork.

If you want to make a loop out of this hike, it might be best to go to the left, as the trail will head downhill. Coming back up this way could be strenuous. If you do decide to come back up this way, there are a series of benches along the trail for resting. This way is shorter taking about 3.3 miles to get to the overlook. Continue reading “Hiking to Feather Falls”

Posted on

Hiking Juniper Lake to Horseshoe Lake

Horseshoe Lake is peacefully serene in the morning. Stop and take it in.
Horseshoe Lake is peacefully serene in the morning. Stop and take it in.

Horseshoe Lake in Lassen Volcanic National Park offers an awesome view, and is what makes this hike worth it. I got to experience the lake early in the morning before I saw any other hikers. It was beautiful, and even though I consider the entire hike the destination, just looking at Horseshoe Lake is a destination. Continue reading “Hiking Juniper Lake to Horseshoe Lake”

Posted on

Hiking Prospect Peak in Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen through a smokey haze from Prospect Peak.
Mt. Lassen through a smokey haze from Prospect Peak.

What makes the hike up to Prospect Peak in Lassen Volcanic National Park worth the effort are the views from the 8340-foot summit. First, I have to admit, the views would have been spectacular when I was there, but there were several wildfires burning at the time. The Carr Fire near Redding and the Whaleback Fire near Susanville along with others in the state made for very hazy views when the wind blew in the smoke. Continue reading “Hiking Prospect Peak in Lassen Volcanic National Park”

Posted on

Hiking the Steep Ravine Trail – Dipsea Trail Loop

The Steep Ravine Trail on Mount Tamalpias follows Webb Creek through a lush Redwood forest.
The Steep Ravine Trail on Mount Tamalpias follows Webb Creek through a lush Redwood forest.

If you like hiking under Redwood trees next to running water and waterfalls, then the Steep Raving Trail is the hike for you if you do it at the right time of the year. By that, it’s good to go during or after a good rain when the waterfalls will be flowing.

The trail is called Steep Ravine for a reason. You will descend 1,084 feet on a 9 percent grade slightly over 2 miles. For the most part, it’s gentle, but the beginning is steep. If the water is running, it’s worth it. Continue reading “Hiking the Steep Ravine Trail – Dipsea Trail Loop”

Posted on

Hiking to Bassi Falls

Bassi Falls is at its fullest strength in May from the snowmelt runoff. 
Bassi Falls is at its fullest strength in May from the snowmelt runoff.

Updated May 23, 2021

Bassi Falls is a spectacular show of natural force as it tumbles and crashes 109 feet off granite rocks before the water hits the bottom and flows away. To see the falls at their most powerful, it’s best to go before the end of May while the snowmelt is still good. After May, the flow slows and eventually becomes a trickle. Continue reading “Hiking to Bassi Falls”

Posted on

Hiking Eagle Pass to Paul Thomas Trail

Black Butte Lake from Eagle Pass is a green and alive in the springtime.
Black Butte Lake from Eagle Pass is a green and alive in the springtime.

The hike from Eagle Pass to the Paul Thomas Trail can only be done in the springtime while the grasses are green before the summer sets in and the weather is still cool enough to be outside in the valley. The view from Eagle Pass you hike up to is incredible. It looks over to Black Butte, the lake itself to the west and the Coastal Mountain Range that spans the horizon running from the north the south that disappears to sight. Continue reading “Hiking Eagle Pass to Paul Thomas Trail”

Posted on

Hiking Snow Mountain West Peak

The Sutter Buttes, the Sacramento Valley and the Sierra Nevadas can be seen in the distance from Snow Mountain.
The Sutter Buttes, the Sacramento Valley and the Sierra Nevadas can be seen in the distance from Snow Mountain.

Note: This portion of the forest was severely burned in 2018 shortly after I hiked it, and most the trees are now burned out. See my Snow Mountain East Peak summary for an update.

Peaceful desolation. That’s what the hike up Snow Mountain in the Snow Mountain Wilderness is. The trails are defined, the wildflowers are in bloom in the summer and people are scarce. The trails in this Northern California area are a hidden gem, as they are under-hiked and seemingly unknown to most.

Though not recommended to hike in the summer as the heat can be brutal, I happened to catch the mountain on an unseasonably cool July day with overcast and a smattering of rain. The wildflowers were in bloom from red to purple, yellow, blue and orange. The hike starts out exposed and meanders for a little more than a mile before you start to get under the cover of the tall pine trees as you climb.

Continue reading “Hiking Snow Mountain West Peak”

Posted on

Hiking Polomarin Trailhead to Wildcat Camp (Coast Trail)

The Coast Trail offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean.
The Coast Trail offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean.

Hiking the Coast Trail from the Polomarin trailhead to Wildcamp Camp is like hiking Highway 1. It’s extraordinary with its views of the ocean on one side and forests on the other.

Most take this trail to hike to Alamere Falls, where the trail offshoot is at nearly four miles in. At the time I took this trail, the Alamere Falls cutoff was mostly overgrown and difficult to ascertain. It seemed like it wasn’t being well-maintained. Some say there is a sign there, but I did not see one when I hiked by, but someone made an arrow marker on the ground (not permanent) marking the intersection. Part of the overgrowth was poison oak, but nonetheless that doesn’t deter people from hiking to the falls. But if you go on, there’s more to see. Continue reading “Hiking Polomarin Trailhead to Wildcat Camp (Coast Trail)”

Posted on

Hiking Blue Ridge Trail to Fiske Peak

The view from the Blue Ridge Trail is sweeping as it looks into the Mendocino National Forest in the distance with Cache Creek in the foreground.
The view from the Blue Ridge Trail is sweeping as it looks into the Mendocino National Forest in the distance with Cache Creek in the foreground.

I love this hike! Hiking the Blue Ridge Trail to Fiske Peak in Northern California starts with a mild climb through an oak forest. It’s the only canopy you’ll be under during the hike. As the trail meanders up the open hillside, you’ll hike into a clear view of Glascock Mountain across the highway. Once you get to this point, the real ascension quickly begins. Continue reading “Hiking Blue Ridge Trail to Fiske Peak”

Posted on

Upper Bidwell Park: North Rim Trail to Middle Trail

The North Rim Trail in Upper Bidwell Park comes alive with color in the springtime.
The North Rim Trail in Upper Bidwell Park comes alive with color in the springtime.

It isn’t often that I hike a city park and let alone write about it, but Upper Bidwell Park in Chico is laden with hiking trails in the hills is an exception. Over the years I’ve heard so much about the hiking trails in Upper Bidwell Park, I finally decided to check it out in the spring. I hiked the North Rim Trail and Middle Trail Loop. Continue reading “Upper Bidwell Park: North Rim Trail to Middle Trail”

Posted on

Hiking Thunder Mountain

The views to the south of Thunder Mountain can be spectacular if the climatic conditions are right and there is at least some snow on the mountaintops in the distance.
The views to the south of Thunder Mountain can be spectacular if the climatic conditions are right and there is at least some snow on the mountaintops in the distance.

This sometimes heavy breather of a hike to Thunder Mountain has outstanding views of mountaintops and ranges and overlooks vast swaths of trees and granite, meadows and forested hiking. At slightly over three miles in, and after some of the heaviest climbing on the trail, you come to the vista that can make you stop hiking and just gaze at the landscape. As you look to the south, you can see mountain peaks in the distance – probably in the Stanislaus National Forest – some with snow on them. If there are clouds in the over them, it’s an even more powerful view. Continue reading “Hiking Thunder Mountain”

Posted on

Hiking High Bridge Trail

The views of the summer foothills from High Bridge Trail can be staggering at times.
The views of the summer foothills from High Bridge Trail can be staggering at times.

The High Bridge Trail hike starts off on a brief service road going down to Bear Creek. Follow the trail signs, and they will point you to where the crossing should be, and you can see where the trail picks up on the other side of the creek. However, depending on what the water level is like, you may not be able to safely cross, and you may have to improvise your own way. If the water is running, you will have to use your own best judgment as to if crossing is wise, or if you should try it at another time. Continue reading “Hiking High Bridge Trail”

Posted on

Billy’s Hill and Glascock Mountain

The north end of Capay Valley from Glascock Mountain where some of the farms can be seen.
The north end of Capay Valley from Glascock Mountain where some of the farms can be seen.

The hike up Billy’s Hill and then over to Glascock Mountain can be a butt kicker, but it is worth it. This land is overseen by the Bureau of Land Management, so you can hike on it. Once you climb over the green gate, you will see there is no trail up Billy’s Hill, so the best way, albeit steep, is to hike a game trail. You may have to stop and rest on the up, which took me a little more than an hour to climb the 19 percent one-mile grade. The 980 foot ascent takes you from a starting elevation of 798 feet to 1778 feet. Continue reading “Billy’s Hill and Glascock Mountain”

Proudly powered by WordPress