Hiking Smittle Creek Trail
Hiking Lake Hennessey in the Springtime is Beautiful
This is a really pleasant trail in the Napa Foothills along Lake Hennessey, especially in the springtime when the hills and trees are all green. During the right times of day, it can also be great if you’re a birder.
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Hiking to Lake Margaret
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”
Hiking Big Meadow to Dardanelles Lake
As I wrote in the Big Meadow to Round Lake summary, if you like hiking through meadows like I do, then this hike through Big Meadow is absolutely for you.
Hiking to Scott’s Lake is full of Fall Color
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”
Hiking Lyons Creek Trailhead to Lake Sylvia
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.
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Hiking Carson Pass to Elephants Back
The only words I spoke to myself on this solo hike as I looked south to the mountain tops from the edge of Elephants Back were, “F*cking spectacular.” The pictures in this trail summary don’t do the view justice – it has to be experienced. Continue reading “Hiking Carson Pass to Elephants Back”
Hiking Fleming Trail Loop in Eldorado National Forest
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”
Hiking to Feather Falls
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”
Hiking Juniper Lake to Horseshoe Lake
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”
Hiking Prospect Peak in Lassen Volcanic National Park
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”
Hiking the Steep Ravine Trail – Dipsea Trail Loop
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”
Hiking to Bassi Falls
Updated May 23, 2021