Hikes

Pyramid Creek Trail

Pyramid Creek Trail https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Glaciated-Granite-Horsetail-Falls-by-Steve-Evans-1-1024x683.jpg 1024 683 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Glaciated-Granite-Horsetail-Falls-by-Steve-Evans-1-1024x683.jpg May 27, 2020 May 27, 2020

May 27, 2020

Flowing out of the Desolation Wilderness in the western Sierra Nevada, Pyramid Creek tumbles over spectacular Horsetail Falls into a series of smaller but nearly as dramatic cataracts and cascades. The magnificent waterfall is viewable and accessible from State Highway 50, just a short 1.5 hour drive east from Sacramento. The first part of the…

Caliente Mountain Ridge Trail

Caliente Mountain Ridge Trail https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Carrizo-Plain-Plaque-1024x412.jpg 1024 412 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Carrizo-Plain-Plaque-1024x412.jpg April 30, 2020 April 30, 2020

April 30, 2020

If one wants to get a feel for what the pre-settled San Joaquin Valley might have looked like, venturing through the Carrizo Plain National Monument would paint a fairly close picture. To get a terrific vantage point of the spacious plain, jumping on the Caliente Mountain Ridge Trail offers a great point of view. Trailhead…

Cache Creek Ridge Trail Section 2

Cache Creek Ridge Trail Section 2 https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/P2286174-Along-trail-toward-Cache-Creek-Ridge-by-Jim-Rose-1024x768.jpg 1024 768 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/P2286174-Along-trail-toward-Cache-Creek-Ridge-by-Jim-Rose-1024x768.jpg March 24, 2020 March 30, 2020

March 24, 2020

The Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Ukiah Field Office oversees extensive areas of public land in the Coast Range where Colusa, Napa, Lake and Yolo counties come together around Cache Creek. Most of the public lands are part of the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument, but BLM holdings in Colusa County were unfortunately excluded from…

Chorro Grande Trail

Chorro Grande Trail https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/chorro-springs-trail-head-view-by-Dave-W.-Lockeretz.jpg 800 600 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/chorro-springs-trail-head-view-by-Dave-W.-Lockeretz.jpg February 28, 2020 February 28, 2020

February 28, 2020

The Chorro Grande Trail is for fairly hard-core peak baggers. It climbs the entire 5.1 miles along the south slope of Pine Mountain in the Los Padres National Forest. This hike entails a steep, 3,000-foot climb on a pine-dotted slope, unless you are able to arrange a shuttle to do it as a one-way descent…

South Fork Elk River Trail

South Fork Elk River Trail https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Headwaters-Forest-1024x818.jpg 1024 818 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Headwaters-Forest-1024x818.jpg January 30, 2020 January 30, 2020

January 30, 2020

The 7,472-acre Headwaters Forest Reserve (Reserve) was established in 1999 after a decade-long grassroots effort to protect the world’s last unprotected, intact, old-growth redwood forest ecosystem. Several threatened species call the Reserve home, including coho salmon, the northern spotted owl, and the marbled murrelet. The Reserve is the headwaters of the South Fork Elk River…

Coalinga Mineral Springs National Recreation Trail

Coalinga Mineral Springs National Recreation Trail https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Coalinga-Mineral-Springs-NRT-1024x768.jpg 1024 768 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Coalinga-Mineral-Springs-NRT-1024x768.jpg December 23, 2019 December 23, 2019

December 23, 2019

Hike the “earthquake capital of California” The Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Central Coast Field Office oversees the stewardship of scattered federal public lands between Monterey on the coast inland to the San Joaquin Desert in western Fresno County. Yes, we did say “desert,” and not “valley,” for the southern San Joaquin Valley is indeed…

Cooper Canyon/Pacific Crest Trail

Cooper Canyon/Pacific Crest Trail https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Cooper-Canyon-2-1024x768.jpg 1024 768 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Cooper-Canyon-2-1024x768.jpg November 26, 2019 November 30, 2019

November 26, 2019

If you would like to do a short section hike on the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail (PCT) in the Angeles National Forest, this hike is for you. The best way to do this hike is by using a car shuttle. Leave one car at or outside of the Eagles Roost Picnic Area (mile 61.6…

Willow Creek Petroglyphs Hike

Willow Creek Petroglyphs Hike https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Willow-Creek-Canyon-1024x683.jpg 1024 683 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Willow-Creek-Canyon-1024x683.jpg October 27, 2019 October 30, 2019

October 27, 2019

In the high desert of northeast California, Willow Creek has carved a scenic canyon through lava rimrock. From its source near Eagle Lake, Willow Creek flows southeast past the community of Susanville to the Susan River, which ultimately feeds into the closed basin of Honey Lake. Along the way, the creek flows through the southern…

Heart Lake National Recreation Trail

Heart Lake National Recreation Trail https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Heart-USFS.jpg 800 600 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Heart-USFS.jpg September 24, 2019 September 27, 2019

September 24, 2019

The Heart Lake Proposed Wilderness is part of the Lassen National Forest in Lassen and Tehama counties. The 12,000-acre proposed wilderness is on the western boundary of Lassen Volcanic National Park. This volcano and glacier-carved wild land is covered with impressive old-growth forests of pine and fir, as well as meadows, aspen groves, lakes and…

Kearsarge Pass Trail

Kearsarge Pass Trail https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/DSCN8133-1024x768.jpg 1024 768 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/DSCN8133-1024x768.jpg August 28, 2019 August 30, 2019

August 28, 2019

Features: The Kearsarge Pass trailhead begins at Onion Valley (9,200 feet) and travels to Kearsarge Pass (11,800 feet). Kearsarge Pass is a popular destination for day hikers. Beyond Kearsarge Pass, the trail enters Kings Canyon National Park, where it joins the John Muir and Pacific Crest Trail. Along the trail, you will be treated to…

Baker Point Trail

Baker Point Trail https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Baker-Pt-Lookout-1024x683.jpg 1024 683 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Baker-Pt-Lookout-1024x683.jpg July 25, 2019 July 25, 2019

July 25, 2019

Features: This short but scenic trail takes you to an old Forest Service fire lookout on Baker Point, overlooking the spectacular canyon of the North Fork Kern Wild & Scenic River and the town of Kernville, more than 5,000 feet below. Baker Point dominates the Stormy Canyon roadless area, which encompasses the entire western slope of…

Tenaja Trail to Fisherman’s Camp

Tenaja Trail to Fisherman’s Camp https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/DSCN7870-1024x768.jpg 1024 768 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/DSCN7870-1024x768.jpg May 22, 2019 May 28, 2019

May 22, 2019

Features: There are several hike options located within the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness in southwest Riverside County, the most well-known of which is the Tenaja Falls trail (also featured on our website). However, there are other hikes in the area that warrant exploration. One such hike is on the Tenaja Trail. The Tenaja Trail stretches 8.5…

Elder Creek and the Angelo Coast Range Reserve

Elder Creek and the Angelo Coast Range Reserve https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Elder-Ck-Sign-1024x683.jpg 1024 683 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Elder-Ck-Sign-1024x683.jpg April 26, 2019 April 26, 2019

April 26, 2019

Features: A tributary of the South Fork Eel Wild & Scenic River, Elder Creek can only be described with superlatives.This nearly pristine stream is a National Natural Landmark, Hydrologic Benchmark, and a United Nations recognized Biosphere Reserve. The creek is an important contributor to the South Fork’s anadromous fishery. Federal officials recently identified the creek as…

Milpitas Wash Wilderness

Milpitas Wash Wilderness https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Milpitas-Wash.JD_-1024x208.jpg 1024 208 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Milpitas-Wash.JD_-1024x208.jpg March 25, 2019 March 27, 2019

March 25, 2019

Features: S. 47, the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act, protected over 375,000 acres of new wilderness areas in the California desert in March 2019. One of those places is the Milpitas Wash Wilderness in eastern Imperial County just west of the Colorado River. Milpitas Wash is a very large seasonal desert stream…

North Algodones Dunes

North Algodones Dunes https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/AlgodonesDunes_ISS-Crew-CC-011-E-11543-1024x679.jpg 1024 679 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/AlgodonesDunes_ISS-Crew-CC-011-E-11543-1024x679.jpg January 18, 2019 January 18, 2019

January 18, 2019

Courtesy of the Outdoor Project. Features: The Imperial Sand Dunes, otherwise known as the Glamis sand dunes, are the largest mass of sand dunes in California and have been used as the setting of many films such as “Star Wars” and “Lawrence of Arabia.” Usually this area is known for the OHV scene where in the winter…

North Fork San Jacinto and Fuller Mill Creek Wild & Scenic Rivers

North Fork San Jacinto and Fuller Mill Creek Wild & Scenic Rivers https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/NFSJ3_Falls-669x1024.jpg 669 1024 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/NFSJ3_Falls-669x1024.jpg December 23, 2018 August 8, 2019

December 23, 2018

Info courtesy of San Bernadino National Forest. Features: This 3.5 mile wild and scenic river system finds its source on the heights of San Jacinto Peak in the Mount San Jacinto State Game Preserve and Wilderness Area. The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail crosses its upper reaches. Above the confluence of Fuller Mill Creek and the…

West Walker Wild & Scenic Rivers

West Walker Wild & Scenic Rivers https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/West-Walker-River2-1024x683.jpg 1024 683 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/West-Walker-River2-1024x683.jpg November 30, 2018 February 3, 2019

November 30, 2018

Features: The West Walker River, from its source in the Hoover Wilderness to where it flows into the Antelope Valley upstream of the town of Walker, was protected as a state wild and scenic river by the California Legislature in 1989. Prior to its designation, the California Natural Resources Agency studied the river and found the…

Cache Creek Ridge Trail

Cache Creek Ridge Trail https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Cache2-680x1024.jpg 680 1024 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Cache2-680x1024.jpg October 23, 2018 October 23, 2018

October 23, 2018

[content courtesy of the Tuleyome] Features: A moderate, easy-to-access hike that exemplifies the grasslands, chaparral, and oak woodlands of the Cache Creek area, which is protected as federal wilderness as part of the Berryessa-Snow Mountain National Monument, and as a state Wild and Scenic River. Driving Directions: For a 10mi one-way trip, take 2 cars. From…

Siretta Trail-Domeland Add photo by Steve Evans

Domeland Wilderness

Domeland Wilderness https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Siretta-Trail-Domeland-Add-S-Evans-768x1024.jpg 768 1024 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Siretta-Trail-Domeland-Add-S-Evans-768x1024.jpg September 20, 2018 September 20, 2018

September 20, 2018

[content courtesy of the Outdoor Project] Features: South along the Pacific Coast Trail from Kennedy Meadows lies the Domeland Wilderness, a vast area of over 130,000 acres traversed by the South Fork of the Kern River. Most of the wilderness is sparse chaparrel; the western side has more trees and meadows that extend into the higher elevations. In the…

Klamath River Overlook via Coastal Trail

Klamath River Overlook via Coastal Trail https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/0373975C-155D-4519-3E2330AD1C39F53AOriginal-1024x768.jpg 1024 768 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/0373975C-155D-4519-3E2330AD1C39F53AOriginal-1024x768.jpg July 16, 2018 July 16, 2018

July 16, 2018

[courtesy of U.S. National Park Service] Distance: This hike is an out and back, totaling roughly 8 miles. It is one section of the longer Coastal Trail, which is around 70 miles along the Northern Coast of California. Time: 3-5 hours, depending on speed and if you explore the spur trails to the tide pools. Elevation Gain/Loss: The…

Sisqouc River Trail

Sisqouc River Trail https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Sisquoc-WSR-LR-1024x768.jpg 1024 768 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Sisquoc-WSR-LR-1024x768.jpg May 21, 2018 May 21, 2018

May 21, 2018

(Paraphrased from “Day Hikes Around Santa Barbara” by Robert Stone, Day Hike Books Inc, 2010) Distance: 11.1mi to Sisquoc River Trail intersection (from there out and back to your desired length of the Sisquoc River Trail—if you follow recommendations below, length to Mormon Camp and back is approximately 16 miles). Time: 8-16 hours (or best…

Underwood Proposed Wilderness Hike

Underwood Proposed Wilderness Hike https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Underwood-2-Steve-Evans-1024x683.jpg 1024 683 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Underwood-2-Steve-Evans-1024x683.jpg April 10, 2018 April 10, 2018

April 10, 2018

Distance (one way): Approximately 3 miles to the South Fork Trinity River, and 7 miles to the end of the trail at Mule Bridge. Features: The Underwood Proposed Wilderness is located along the boundary of Humboldt and Trinity counties in the Six Rivers National Forest 4 miles east of the town of Willow Creek. The South…

Merced River Hike

Merced River Hike https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Merced-River-hike-S-Evans-1024x693.jpg 1024 693 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Merced-River-hike-S-Evans-1024x693.jpg March 19, 2018 March 19, 2018

March 19, 2018

Features: The Merced River Canyon downstream of Briceburg on Highway 140 is a great destination for spring camping and hiking. The Merced River Wild and Scenic River leaves Highway 140 and flows west through the Bureau of Land Management’s Merced River Recreation Area. The BLM manages three small but cozy campgrounds along this stretch of the…

Amargosa River Hike

Amargosa River Hike https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Amrgosa_Hikers2-779x1024.jpg 779 1024 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Amrgosa_Hikers2-779x1024.jpg February 21, 2018 February 21, 2018

February 21, 2018

Features: Due to its low elevation and desert environment, fall, winter, and spring are excellent times to visit the Amargosa River. Hiking opportunities along the Amargosa abound near the small towns of Tecopa and Shoshone, south of Death Valley National Park. The Amargosa in this area is a rare watered oasis in an otherwise dry desert.…

EVENT: Sacramento River Bend Area hike, March 10th

EVENT: Sacramento River Bend Area hike, March 10th https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Sacramento-River-2_Steve-Evans-1024x749.jpg 1024 749 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Sacramento-River-2_Steve-Evans-1024x749.jpg February 20, 2018 February 20, 2018

February 20, 2018

Cottonwood Springs

Cottonwood Springs https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Ctnwd-Springs-dsc_5541-Outdoor-Project-Contributor-Tyson-Gillard-1024x684.jpg 1024 684 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Ctnwd-Springs-dsc_5541-Outdoor-Project-Contributor-Tyson-Gillard-1024x684.jpg January 30, 2018 January 30, 2018

January 30, 2018

[content courtesy of the Outdoor Project] Features: The climate here doesn’t support Joshua trees, which deters a number of people from making the trek. Consequently, this relatively lesser-trodden hike is perfect for those with limited time or for travelers staying in or passing through the Coachella Valley. The beginning of this loop is nestled into the…

Owl Canyon

Owl Canyon https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Owl-Canyon-Rainbow-Basin-byJess-Beauchemin-2-1024x683.jpg 1024 683 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Owl-Canyon-Rainbow-Basin-byJess-Beauchemin-2-1024x683.jpg December 19, 2017 December 19, 2017

December 19, 2017

[content courtesy of the Outdoor Project] Features: Located in the Rainbow Basin Natural Area (and recently designated as a California Desert National Conservation Land), Owl Canyon is a big bang-for-your-buck hike. In only 2 miles you’ll discover a myriad of geological formations, scramble through a little slot canyon, enjoy seasonal wildflowers and end up at an expansive…

whitewaterxing by raisethestakeseditions.com

Canyon View Loop

Canyon View Loop https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/whitewaterxing-by-raisethestakeseditions-1024x512.jpg 1024 512 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/whitewaterxing-by-raisethestakeseditions-1024x512.jpg November 15, 2017 November 15, 2017

November 15, 2017

[content courtesy of the Outdoor Project] Features: The Canyon View Loop begins and ends at the ranger station in the Whitewater Preserve, and it crosses one of the few year-round rivers in the Mojave Desert at multiple points. The trial traces the wash before it joins a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail for a climb up…

Granite and Hidden Lakes

Granite and Hidden Lakes https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Granite-Lake-person-e1508530507570.jpg 683 1024 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Granite-Lake-person-e1508530507570.jpg October 20, 2017 October 20, 2017

October 20, 2017

Features: Granite and Hidden Lakes are scenic gems nestled in a broad rocky and forested slope stretching from Silver Lake on Highway 88 up to a ridge the forms the northern boundary of the Mokelumne Wilderness. Granite Lake is an easy day hike destination for people who want to stretch their legs for 1.5 miles and…

Gaviota Peak

Gaviota Peak https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/2015.04.28-Ojai-8-of-10-1024x683.jpg 1024 683 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/2015.04.28-Ojai-8-of-10-1024x683.jpg September 21, 2017 September 21, 2017

September 21, 2017

Features: (from Hikespeak.com) Gaviota Peak sits at the lofty west end of the Santa Ynez Mountains behind Santa Barbara. The 2,458-foot peak is just two miles from the Pacific Ocean, putting it in prime position to offer eye-popping views. There are two routes to the summit from the trailhead in Gaviota State Park. The traditional Gaviota Peak…

Pacific Valley

Pacific Valley https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Leopard-Lily-Pacific-Valley-1024x682.jpg 1024 682 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Leopard-Lily-Pacific-Valley-1024x682.jpg August 21, 2017 September 11, 2017

August 21, 2017

Features: Anyone exploring the beautiful Pacific Valley must wonder why this 10,500 acre roadless area contiguous to the upper portion of Highway 4 in Alpine County was inexplicably excluded from the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness when the wilderness was established by Congress in 1984. The 160,000-acre Carson-Iceberg Wilderness protects a big chunk of the Sierra Nevada crest…

Caples Creek

Caples Creek https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Silver-Fork-AR-693x1024.jpg 693 1024 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Silver-Fork-AR-693x1024.jpg July 19, 2017 July 19, 2017

July 19, 2017

Cascading waterfalls, cool swimming holes, lush meadows, old growth forests, and dramatic rock formations – the Caples Creek roadless area on the Eldorado National Forest has it all. Features: Located north of Highway 88 and south of Highway 50, the Caples Creek area is a short 90- minute drive east of Sacramento. The area consists of…

North Yolla-Bolly

North Yolla-Bolly https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/North-Yolla-Bolly-Jason-Mandly-Outdoor-Project-1024x768.jpg 1024 768 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/North-Yolla-Bolly-Jason-Mandly-Outdoor-Project-1024x768.jpg June 23, 2017 June 23, 2017

June 23, 2017

[content courtesy of the Outdoor Project] The Yolla-Bolly Middle Eel Wilderness anchors the southern extent of the Klamath Mountains and covers over 151,000 acres of land that is rather hard to access. The remoteness of the wilderness combined with the fact that the showier wildernesses to the north tend to attract more people grants a…

Methuselah Trail

Methuselah Trail https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/DSCN2989-768x1024.jpg 768 1024 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/DSCN2989-768x1024.jpg May 22, 2017 May 22, 2017

May 22, 2017

The Methuselah Trail is located in the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest in the White Mountains in the Inyo National Forest, northeast of Bishop. From the trail you will see the oldest Great Basin Bristlecone pine – Methuselah. Features: Methuselah is more than 4,840 years old. Compare that to the oldest known giant sequoia, which is only…

Cozy Dell Trail (Sheldon Canyon/Cozy Dell Canyon)

Cozy Dell Trail (Sheldon Canyon/Cozy Dell Canyon) https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/DSC_7835-1024x456.jpg 1024 456 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/DSC_7835-1024x456.jpg April 21, 2017 April 21, 2017

April 21, 2017

Here’s a great sunset or half day hike for you Central Coast fans with great views of the Ojai Valley. The moderate hike will lead you through oak groves that provide you with plentiful shade along the way. It’s approximately a 2 hour hike with 700 feet of elevation gain. Hiking directions: From the parking…

Hite Cove Trail – Proposed Devil Gulch-Ferguson Ridge Wilderness

Hite Cove Trail – Proposed Devil Gulch-Ferguson Ridge Wilderness https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Mariposa-Lily-by-S-Evans-1024x689.jpg 1024 689 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Mariposa-Lily-by-S-Evans-1024x689.jpg March 21, 2017 March 21, 2017

March 21, 2017

Features: There’s no better place in the central Sierra Nevada foothills to view a spectacular wildflower display than a hike along the scenic Hite Cove Trail on the Sierra National Forest. A spring hike along this scenic trail is also a great introduction to the proposed Devil Gulch-Ferguson Ridge Wilderness and a great outing to enjoy…

New River and Virgin Creek

New River and Virgin Creek https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/NewRiver3-Jeff-Morris.jpg 885 499 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/NewRiver3-Jeff-Morris.jpg February 20, 2017 February 20, 2017

February 20, 2017

Features: Are you interested in putting your feet on-trail in some of the most rugged and remote country in California? A day hike (or an overnighter) to the New River and Virgin Creek in the Trinity Alps Wilderness could be a great fit for you and your hiking compadres. Located off of Highway 299 in Northwest…

Trona Pinnacles

Trona Pinnacles https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Trona-Pinnacles1-Bob-Wick-1024x611.jpg 1024 611 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Trona-Pinnacles1-Bob-Wick-1024x611.jpg January 24, 2017 January 24, 2017

January 24, 2017

Features: More than two million people visit Joshua Tree National Park and Death Valley National Park each year. While there are many beautiful and interesting places to visit in each of those parks, there are many desert treasures that can be found outside of those national parks. One of those treasures, Trona Pinnacles, is located about…

San Mateo Canyon Wilderness: Tenaja Falls Trail

San Mateo Canyon Wilderness: Tenaja Falls Trail https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Tenaja_Falls-768x1024.jpg 768 1024 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Tenaja_Falls-768x1024.jpg December 20, 2016 December 20, 2016

December 20, 2016

Features: A rare chunk of wilderness surrounded by the southern California mega-cities of Los Angeles, San Diego, and the “Inland Empire” of Riverside County, the more than 37,000-acre San Mateo Canyon Wilderness is located in the Santa Ana Mountains and Cleveland National Forest. Its primary feature is the rugged canyon of San Mateo Creek, which flows…

Ishi Wilderness: Deer Creek Trail

Ishi Wilderness: Deer Creek Trail https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Ishi-Wilderness-Steve-Evans-1024x683.jpg 1024 683 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Ishi-Wilderness-Steve-Evans-1024x683.jpg November 23, 2016 November 23, 2016

November 23, 2016

Features: This unique 41,000-acre area in the Mount Lassen foothills on the Lassen National Forest is named after Ishi. His tribe, the Yahi Indians, formerly lived in the area before being decimated by cattle ranchers in the late 1800s. The Ishi Wilderness is cut by the rugged lava rimrock canyons of Deer and Mill Creeks. These…

California Wilderness Act Anniversary Hikes

California Wilderness Act Anniversary Hikes https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Asa-Lake-1024x683.jpg 1024 683 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Asa-Lake-1024x683.jpg November 14, 2016 November 29, 2016

November 14, 2016

September 28, 2016 marked the 32nd anniversary of the California Wilderness Act, which was approved by Congress and signed by President Ronald Reagan in 1984. This landmark legislation protected more than three million acres of wilderness on federally managed public lands throughout the state and represents one of CalWild’s first major legislative achievements. It was…

Asa Lake

Asa Lake https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Asa-Lake-S-Evans-1024x683.jpg 1024 683 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Asa-Lake-S-Evans-1024x683.jpg October 19, 2016 October 19, 2016

October 19, 2016

Elevation gain: Almost none Features: Before 1984, a big chunk of the Sierra Nevada between Ebbetts and Sonora Passes north of Yosemite Park was unprotected and open to development. The California Wilderness Act filled in this threatened link with the establishment of the more than 158,000-acre Carson-Iceberg Wilderness on the Stanislaus and Toiyabe National Forests. Encompassing…

West Fork National Scenic Bikeway – San Gabriel Mountains National Monument

West Fork National Scenic Bikeway – San Gabriel Mountains National Monument https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/W-Fork-San-Gabriel-Nat-Scenic-Bikeway-1024x696.jpg 1024 696 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/W-Fork-San-Gabriel-Nat-Scenic-Bikeway-1024x696.jpg September 22, 2016 September 22, 2016

September 22, 2016

Features: The West Fork National Scenic Bikeway offers a unique bicycling and walking experience in the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument in southern California. It follows a paved utility access road from the trailhead on Highway 39 to a point downstream of Cogswell Dam. The entire trail parallels more than eight miles of the lower West…

Potrero John Trail

Potrero John Trail https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Potrero-John-photo-2-by-Jim-Balsitis-683x1024.jpg 683 1024 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Potrero-John-photo-2-by-Jim-Balsitis-683x1024.jpg August 17, 2016 September 6, 2016

August 17, 2016

(Taken from “Day Hikes around Santa Barbara” by Robert Stone 2010) Hiking Time: 2 hours Elevation gain: 600ft Features: Potrero John Canyon is tucked into the southern face of Pine Mountain in the Sespe Wilderness. The trail is lightly used and directly located off Hwy. 33 and starts at an elevation of 3,655 feet at the…

South Fork Trinity River National Recreation Trail

South Fork Trinity River National Recreation Trail https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/UpperSFTrinity-450x600-REDUCED.jpg 450 600 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/UpperSFTrinity-450x600-REDUCED.jpg July 22, 2016 July 25, 2016

July 22, 2016

Features: Looking for a new hiking experience? One of California’s most beautiful stretches of river, the Upper South Fork Trinity, could be a great fit for you and your hiking compadres. Located just off of Highway 36 in Northwest California the South Fork National Recreation Trail parallels the South Fork Trinity River, whose headwaters flow…

Gene Marshall/Piedra Blanca National Recreation Trail

Gene Marshall/Piedra Blanca National Recreation Trail https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Condor-Ridge-3-1024x416.jpg 1024 416 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Condor-Ridge-3-1024x416.jpg June 9, 2016 June 9, 2016

June 9, 2016

(Paraphrased from “Day Hikes Around Santa Barbara” by Robert Stone 2010 Day Hike Books Inc) Distance: 6.4 Miles round trip Time: 3.5 Hours Elevation Gain: 600 ft. Best Map to Use: USGS and USFS Map: Sespe Wilderness Hiking Directions: From the signed path past the Kiosk and restrooms, walk toward the river gorge. Descend the…

Whitney Portal National Recreation Trail

Whitney Portal National Recreation Trail https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Lone-Pine-Peak-Steve-Evans-683x1024.jpg 683 1024 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Lone-Pine-Peak-Steve-Evans-683x1024.jpg June 3, 2016 June 3, 2016

June 3, 2016

Outstanding views of Mount Whitney (the highest peak in the continental United States) and the eastern Sierra escarpment, Lone Pine Creek, the Alabama Hills, and the White and Inyo Mountains are the key features of the Whitney Portal National Recreation Trail. The trail begins in the Lone Pine Campground at 5,900 feet elevation in the…

Lower Manzana Creek

Lower Manzana Creek https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Manzana-2-Cheryl-Frei-permission-1024x741.jpg 1024 741 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Manzana-2-Cheryl-Frei-permission-1024x741.jpg May 13, 2016 May 13, 2016

May 13, 2016

Distance: 5.6 Miles (3 hours) Elevation Gain/Loss: 250 ft Best Map to Use: USGS and USFS Map: San Rafael Wilderness Features: (Paraphrased from “Day Hikes Around Santa Barbara” by Robert Stone 2010 Day Hike Books Inc) Manzana Creek is a proposed Wild & Scenic River addition in Central Coast Heritage Protection Act (HR 1865 and S. 1423)…

Kings River Trail

Kings River Trail https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Kings-River-2-691x1024.jpg 691 1024 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Kings-River-2-691x1024.jpg March 31, 2016 June 27, 2018

March 31, 2016

Spring is the perfect time to hike the Kings River National Recreation Trail. The trail follows six miles of the magnificent Kings River, through one of the deepest canyons in North America. Below 2,800 feet in elevation, the National Recreation Trail is best hiked in the spring, when the foothills are green and spangled with…

Whitewater River

Whitewater River https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Whitewater_River_Forest_LR-683x1024.jpg 683 1024 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Whitewater_River_Forest_LR-683x1024.jpg March 25, 2016 April 18, 2016

March 25, 2016

Features: The Whitewater River flows freely from the 11,499 foot- high summit of Mount San Gorgonio in the San Bernardino Mountains for more than 30 miles to the Coachella Valley. An area of high ecological significance, the Whitewater River is one of the most pristine and remote watersheds in southern California. A critical biological link…

South Fork Trinity Trail in Underwood

South Fork Trinity Trail in Underwood https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Underwood-South-Fork-Trail-1024x710.jpg 1024 710 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Underwood-South-Fork-Trail-1024x710.jpg March 25, 2016 November 7, 2016

March 25, 2016

Features: This 8-mile round trip hike provides access to the proposed Underwood Wilderness, which straddles a segment of the South Fork Trinity Wild & Scenic River between Hyampom to the north and the Trinity River confluence to the south. With relatively easy access from Highway 299, this trail is popular with hikers and hunters. Because…

Surprise Canyon

Surprise Canyon https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Surprise_Canyon_hiker-685x1024.jpg 685 1024 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Surprise_Canyon_hiker-685x1024.jpg March 25, 2016 December 20, 2016

March 25, 2016

Features: Surprise Canyon is a rare perennial desert stream flowing through the spectacular Panamint Mountains. The narrow slot canyon’s year-round stream flow, spring seeps, waterfalls, and riparian vegetation offer outstanding scenery and primitive recreational opportunities. The long day hike or overnight backpack up Surprise Canyon to the abandoned gold mining town of Panamint City in…

South Fork Trinity River

South Fork Trinity River https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/South-Fork-RA2-662x1024.jpg 662 1024 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/South-Fork-RA2-662x1024.jpg March 25, 2016 November 7, 2016

March 25, 2016

Features: This trail provides access to the proposed South Fork Trinity Wilderness, which straddles a segment of the South Fork Trinity Wild & Scenic River between Forest Glen and Highway 36 in the north and the town of Hyampom to the south. Recently rebuilt by the Watershed Center in Hayfork, the trail offers a great…

Sespe

Sespe https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Sespe1-1024x683.jpg 1024 683 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Sespe1-1024x683.jpg March 25, 2016 May 16, 2016

March 25, 2016

Features: Sespe Creek flows from the wild Topa Topa Mountains in northern Ventura County. Because most rivers and streams in southern California have been dammed, diverted, and channelized, the free flowing Sespe is a significant low-elevation stream with a relatively high potential for maintaining its ecological integrity, primarily because it flows through public lands (Los…

San Antonio Creek Falls

San Antonio Creek Falls https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/San_Antonio_Creek_Falls1_Reduced-669x1024.jpg 669 1024 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/San_Antonio_Creek_Falls1_Reduced-669x1024.jpg March 25, 2016 May 16, 2016

March 25, 2016

Features: San Antonio Creek rises from the sub-alpine heights of the scenic Baldy Bowl and drains the south face of 10,064-foot high Mt. San Antonio (a.k.a. Mt. Baldy). The Forest Service identified a four-mile segment of San Antonio Creek from its source to Mt. Baldy Village to be eligible for National Wild & Scenic River…

Middle Fork Lytle Creek

Middle Fork Lytle Creek https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Middle_Fork_Lytle_Creek_2_Reduced-669x1024.jpg 669 1024 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Middle_Fork_Lytle_Creek_2_Reduced-669x1024.jpg March 25, 2016 May 16, 2016

March 25, 2016

Features: Hike through the Cucamonga Potential Wilderness Area and the Middle Fork Lytle Creek Potential Wild & Scenic River. Flowing from the sub-alpine heights of the Cucamonga Wilderness, the Middle Fork Lytle Creek supports a naturally reproducing rainbow trout population prized by anglers and its canyon is home to regionally significant populations of Nelson’s bighorn…

East Fork San Gabriel

East Fork San Gabriel https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/EFSGR_Hikers.jpg 551 759 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/EFSGR_Hikers.jpg March 25, 2016 May 16, 2016

March 25, 2016

Features: The East Fork San Gabriel River is formed at the confluence of Vincent Gulch and the Prairie Fork. From there, this major fork of the San Gabriel River flows south through the rugged Sheep Mountain Wilderness and potential Wilderness Addition. At Heaton Flat, the East Fork parallels a road all the way to the…

Deep Creek

Deep Creek https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Deep_Creek_person_on_rock_LR-682x1024.jpg 682 1024 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Deep_Creek_person_on_rock_LR-682x1024.jpg March 25, 2016 March 29, 2016

March 25, 2016

Features: Deep Creek flows from the mixed conifer forests of the San Bernardino Mountains through unique, diverse, and spectacular scenery to the the Mojave Desert. Along the way, the creek carves a rugged canyon, tumbling over granite cliffs and around house-sized boulders, and forming limpid pools lined with willow, alder, and cottonwood. The creek supports…

Trail Canyon Hike – Condor Peak

Trail Canyon Hike – Condor Peak https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Trail-Canyon-Creek-683x1024.jpg 683 1024 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Trail-Canyon-Creek-683x1024.jpg March 25, 2016 March 29, 2016

March 25, 2016

Features: The proposed 17,084-acre Condor Peak Wilderness is located on the Angeles National Forest in the San Gabriel Mountains, just minutes away from the LosAngeles metropolitan area. The proposed Wilderness encompasses several canyons and creeks flowing into Big Tujunga Canyon from the north. Elevations range from 2,000 feet in Big Tujunga Canyon to about 6,000…

South Fork Trinity- Chinquapin Proposed Wilderness

South Fork Trinity- Chinquapin Proposed Wilderness https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/SF-Trinity-NRT-Chinquapin-Hikers-684x1024.jpg 684 1024 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/SF-Trinity-NRT-Chinquapin-Hikers-684x1024.jpg March 25, 2016 April 18, 2017

March 25, 2016

Features: This 15-mile trail provides access to the proposed Chinquapin Wilderness, which straddles a segment of the South Fork Trinity River between Forest Road 30 (a.k.a., the Wild-Mad Road) to the north and Highway 36 to the south. Because of its length, the trail offers an ideal backpacking adventure, as well as shorter day hikes,…

Borrego Palm

Borrego Palm https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Borrego_Palm_Canyon.jpg 600 800 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Borrego_Palm_Canyon.jpg March 25, 2016 March 29, 2016

March 25, 2016

Features: Borrego Palm Canyon is a stunning oasis tucked into a rocky gorge. Once the site of over one thousand palms, a flash flood in 2004 wiped out 70 percent of the palm population. You will notice toppled palms along the hike. There are still numerous palms left, and a seasonal waterfall to boot. Early…

Blue Creek

Blue Creek https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Blue_Creek_Hike-683x1024.jpg 683 1024 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Blue_Creek_Hike-683x1024.jpg March 13, 2016 March 29, 2016

March 13, 2016

Features: The immense diversity of plants and animals in this region sets it apart from most other California wild areas. Unusual soils, great rises and drops in elevation, and plenty of water all combine to offer a refuge for literally thousands of life-forms, many of which are found nowhere else on earth. A few years…

Castaic Potential Wilderness (Fish Trail)

Castaic Potential Wilderness (Fish Trail) https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Fish_Canyon_Castaic_Hikers.jpg 428 648 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Fish_Canyon_Castaic_Hikers.jpg March 13, 2016 March 29, 2016

March 13, 2016

Features: Fish Canyon is part of the nearly 70,000 acre potential Castaic Wilderness, which stretches down from Liebre and Sawmill Mountains to the rugged canyons of Castaic Creek and Fish Canyon in northern Los Angeles County. The forested upper ridges support rare California spotted owl and one of the most diverse oak forests in southern…

Bug Creek Trail

Bug Creek Trail https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Mad_River_Buttes.jpg 800 600 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Mad_River_Buttes.jpg March 13, 2016 March 29, 2016

March 13, 2016

Features: Ample ancient forest, outstanding wildflower displays, and great views from atop Board Camp Mountain greet visitors. You are also almost guaranteed solitude. Directions: From Highway 101 in Arcata, drive east on Highway 299 for 28 miles to Titlow Hill Road. Turn right (south) on Titlow Hill Road (Forest Highway 1) and drive 19.7 miles…

Amboy Crater

Amboy Crater https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Crater_Lake-1024x768.jpg 1024 768 California Wilderness Coalition California Wilderness Coalition https://www.calwild.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Crater_Lake-1024x768.jpg March 13, 2016 March 29, 2016

March 13, 2016

Features: This is a short but scenic hike in the newly designated Mojave Trails National Monument. Amboy Crater was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1973, due to is visual and geological significance. Although Amboy Crater is not unique, it is an excellent example of a very symmetrical volcanic cinder cone. Due to the often…