Trailspotting

Northern California Trails Map

2011-07-20T19:52:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Trailspotting, where we review the best hiking, snowshoeing and skiing trails around Northern California and beyond. Our in-depth trail reviews, route maps and free GPS downloads should be enough to tempt you away from the computer and into the great outdoors!

Here are a few of our favourite trails to whet your appetite ..

Half Dome, Yosemite It's difficult to approach Yosemite's Half Dome without a sense of trepidation. Perhaps it's the scale of the seventeen mile hike and 4,800ft elevation gain. Perhaps it's a fear of heights and worry over the final ascent of the cables, almost a mile above the valley floor. Alternatively, maybe it's just the dread of the Yosemite crowds compounded by the added attraction of Half Dome itself.

Donner Lake Snowshoeing, Lake Tahoe It's easy to relate to frustrated motorists returning from a weekend skiing in Tahoe, stuck in heavy interstate 80 traffic with aching legs and a long journey ahead. But spare a thought for those whose journey to the west coast was a little more arduous, and a little less certain that they'd actually make it there in one piece.

Ski Tahoe with Trailspotting We've mapped all twelve of the major Lake Tahoe ski and snowboard resorts and they're available for free download at Trailspotting. Explore the maps on Google Maps and Google Earth to get to know them better, then download them to your GPS device and hit the slopes!

Pipiwai Bamboo Trail, Maui (Hawaii) This is our favorite hike on Maui, yet for some people Hana Highway drive to the trailhead alone is excitement enough. Beginning at the rugged and remote eastern Maui coastline follow the Pipiwai stream inland and you'll soon be surrounded by dense jungle, heading towards a series of waterfalls each increasingly more impressive than the last.

iPhone and Android downloads with :
- Trailspotting Guides: Mt. Tamalpais Bundle

- Trailspotting Guides: Lake Tahoe Best Hikes Bundle

- Trailspotting Guides: Lake Tahoe Peak Baggers Bundle

- Trailspotting Guides: Lake Tahoe Family Friendly Bundle

- Trailspotting Guides: Lassen Volcanic National Park Bundle

Angel Island State Park, Perimeter Rd

2011-06-07T11:52:00.000-07:00

Rating:
Area: San Francisco Peninsula
Distance: 5 miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 800ft (from 0 to 320ft)

Whether you're in search of tranquility, great views or a little history lesson - Angel Island is the perfect choice.

Situated in the middle of the San Francisco Bay and surrounded by water on all sides, the short ferry journey to the island transports you away from, the hustle of the city and into a different world.

This five mile walking tour around the island's circumference takes in most of the major sights and curiosities, including military batteries and barracks, the immigration station known as the Ellis Island of the west" and picture perfect views all around the bay.

The island is accessible from Pier 39/41 at the heart of Fisherman's Wharf, or from a separate ferry service operating from Tiburon. Be sure to plan ahead as services to the island are limited and you'll want to make sure you'll have enough time to experience the best of the island before jumping on the last ferry home.

Be sure to explore our map for more information on this trail including photos and descriptions of the points of interest along the way.

Ferry Services:
- From San Francisco: Blue & Gold Ferries at Pier 39/41
- From Tiburon: Angel Island Ferry Company

Tangents:
- Trailspotting Images: Angel Island Perimeter Road on Flickr
- Official Website: Angel Island State Park

Camelback Mountain, Phoenix AZ

2011-06-01T20:42:00.000-07:00

Rating:
Area: Arizona
Distance: 2 miles
Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty: Medium
Elevation gain: 1,300ft (from 1,450 - 2,680ft)

Out of Bounds: Occasionally we venture beyond NorCal and we usually take our hiking boots with us. Normal service will resume very soon!

Distinctive and dominant on the Phoenix landscape, Camelback Mountain is just begging to be conquered. The two different routes to the 2,680ft summit offer different challenges, and both are featured in this guide.

Echo Canyon is the popular route, which ascends 1,400 foot up the western side of the mountain in just over a mile. The journey quickly becomes a real leg-burner but delivers some good hiking experiences and a varied terrain.

The Cholla trail heads up a well maintained trail on Camelback's east flank, but becomes a challenging and technical ascent upon reaching the ridgeline. This fun 1.3 mile route becomes increasingly rocky and precipitous, and though the conditions here are not extreme, we'd certainly urge caution and wouldn't recommend this route for young children or folk with a strong aversion to heights.

iPhone and Android downloads with :
- Trailspotting Guides: Camelback Mountain, Phoenix AZ

Tangents:
- Trailspotting Images: Camelback Mountain, Phoenix AZ on Flickr
- Official Site: Camelback Mountain, Phoenix AZ

Piestewa Peak, Phoenix AZ

2011-06-01T20:13:00.000-07:00

Rating:
Area: Arizona
Distance: 2 miles
Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty: Medium
Elevation gain: 1,100ft (from 1,550 - 2,608ft)

Out of Bounds: Occasionally we venture beyond NorCal and we usually take our hiking boots with us. Normal service will resume very soon!

Many hikers head for the hills in search of solitude, but if you're planning to hike to the summit of Piestewa Peak you'd do better to bring with you your community spirit - rarely have we seen such a busy trail.

Hikers, walkers, sightseers and runners alike flock to this prominent peak like moths to a flame, drawn here in part because of it proximity to the city of Phoenix. Despite the crowds this mountain can still be a lot of fun, offering as it does a short but taxing 1,100 ft climb and many great views along the 1 mile route.

If you feel the need to escape from the throngs, you can always extend your return journey along the much less travelled Circumference Trail which traces a flanking route around the mountain. The trip around the mountain measures around 3.1 miles from the peak trail and back to the trailhead.

Parking is a challenge, as is understanding the parking restrictions that prevail. Parking lots close at 7pm, which isn't helpful for folk who want to watch enjoy a good sunset from the summit - but there may be ways to park much later, which we explain in more detail later in the guide.

iPhone and Android downloads with :
- Trailspotting Guides: Piestewa Peak, Phoenix AZ

Tangents:
- Trailspotting Images: Piestewa Peak, Phoenix AZ on Flickr
- Official Site: Piestewa Peak, Phoenix AZ

West Fork Oak Creek, Sedona AZ

2011-05-08T15:04:00.000-07:00

Rating:
Area: Arizona
Distance: 7 miles
Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty: Medium
Elevation gain: 400ft (from 5,320 to 5,660ft)

Out of Bounds: Occasionally we venture beyond NorCal and we usually take our hiking boots with us. Normal service will resume very soon!

Trekking up Oak Creek’s west fork offers one of the best hiking experiences in Sedona, an area already known as a hiker’s paradise. The steep canyon walls and the shade of trees make this a perfect trail if you’re looking to avoid the heat of the Arizona sun.

Trace the creek upstream along pleasant sandy trails and thirteen separate river crossings and enjoy the imposing views of the canyon walls towering above you. Unless the waters are high, the crossings are relatively easy, and the elevation gain on this trail is slight.

The trail ends where the canyon walls close in on you and there’s nowhere else to go without getting your feet wet. Enjoy the great views, make the most of the photo opportunities and marvel at how the water has etched away at the rock over the millennia.

If you’re suitably equipped, you can continue to wade upstream for another quarter of a mile or so. The pebbly creek bed can be a little hard on bare feet, but it might be tolerable to you - also be careful of the smoother rock surfaces underfoot which are particularly slippery.

Eleven miles north of Sedona, the trailhead at the Call of the Canyon day use area has limited parking availability, which may be an inconvenience to some, but early arrivals will enjoy a relatively uncrowded trail.

If you’re following our GPS route, be aware that coverage in high-sided canyons can be spotty and sometimes misleading due to signals echoing off walls. However, the route up the canyon is simple to follow and it’s even harder to get lost.

iPhone and Android downloads with :
- Trailspotting Guides: Sedona's Oak Creek - West Fork

Tangents:
- Trailspotting Images: Sedona's Oak Creek West Fork on Flickr
- Official Site: Coconino National Forest

Hidden Valley, Joshua Tree National Park

2011-03-07T01:00:00.000-08:00

Rating:
Area: Southern California
Distance: 1 mile
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 140ft (from 4,180 to 4,270ft)

Sample the best of Joshua Tree National Park on this short 1 mile nature trail loop in the heart of the park. If time or the fierce sun means you only have the chance for one short hike at Joshua Tree National Park, then Hidden Valley is a great choice.

Encircled on all sides by the familiar golden rock outcroppings of the Joshua Tree park, Hidden Valley certainly lives up to is name. In addition to being a great sheltered location, this place is also rumored to have been well known to 19th century cattle rustlers who would hide their bovine hoards in here.

The nature trail takes you on a circuitous route around some of the most prominent features of the park, including interpretive guides to the area’s diversity, plantlife and geology.

Begin the hike at the Hidden Valley trailhead located just south of the main park road, near Intersection rock, where you’ll commonly find rock climbers doing what comes naturally to them. This short guide begins at the parking lot, marked out by a roped entrance. Follow the trail into the valley with a brief gentle climb up across rocks and down onto the level valley floor.

Though the signs don’t recommend a direction at this point, everybody we observed on this popular trail took a clockwise route, and we’re happy to believe in the wisdom of crowds. The majority of this hike is along the sandy valley floor, making for an easy and comfortable experience.

iPhone and Android downloads with :
- Trailspotting Guides: Hidden Valley, Joshua Tree National Park

Tangents:
- Trailspotting Images: Joshua Tree on Flickr
- Official Site: Joshua Tree National Park

McArthur Burney Falls State Park Loop

2011-03-02T08:56:00.000-08:00

Rating:
Area: Lassen
Distance: 1 miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 250ft (from 2,750 to 2,900ft)

Without question Burney Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the state. The 129ft waterfall thrills visitors to McArthur Burney Falls Memorial State Park all year round, even when the California summer has dried up every other waterfall around.

Located in the Cascade mountains, forty miles north of Lassen Volcanic National Park the falls are given their longevity by the release of melt-water from porous volcanic rock from the surrounding mountains.

Two large streams cascade from the top of the falls and are accompanied by curtains of water fed from underground streams, creating a unique and grand appearance to the waterfall.

Our one mile journey loops around the falls in a clockwise direction, beginning with an overlook from above the waterfall and descending into the valley towards the foot of the attraction. With the falls hidden from view for much of the trail, we can focus on the interpretive signs on the nature trail and enjoy the shade that the park's greenery provides.

The crescendo of the trail reaches its peak at the bottom of Burney Falls where you can experience the force nature from up close. The return journey is along a short set of switchbacks which afford even more views of the falls.

iPhone and Android downloads with :
- Trailspotting Guides: Burney Falls Loop
- Trailspotting Guides: Lassen Volcanic National Park Bundle

Tangents:
- Trailspotting Images: Burney Falls Loop on Flickr

- Trailspotting TV: Burney Falls on You Tube
- CA State Parks: McArthur Burney Falls Memorial SP
- Wikipedia: Burney Falls State Park

Manzanita Lake, Lassen Volcanic NP

2010-09-26T15:21:00.001-07:00

Rating:
Area: Lassen
Distance: 2 miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 300ft (from 5,800 to 6,000ft)

On a clear day the short and easy 2 mile loop hike around sparkling Manzanita Lake is the perfect introduction to Lassen Volcanic National Park, showcasing as it does some the best features of the park - including the glacier strewn Lassen Peak and the young Chaos Crags massif. In fact it was an enormous rockfall collapse of Chaos Crags which cut off a local creek and created this lake - be sure to check out our Chaos Crags article for a tour of the rockfall known as Chaos Jumbles.

This spot is favored not only by hikers and photographers but also fishing enthusiasts in search of rainbow, brown and brook trout. Thankfully the lake is limited to non-motorized boats, keeping the lakeside relatively quiet. Kayaks can be rented near the boat launch area - check the nearby campground store for details.

Situated by the northern entrance of the park, the lake is conveniently located by the historic visitor center and the large Manzanita Creek campground. Noise from the park road does infiltrate the peace of the lake somewhat, but its a price you pay for the convenience. If you prefer a quieter lake experience, check out our Cluster Lakes article.

Snow covers the Lassen landscape for much of the year and some roads and trails may not be open - even in summer. Check the links in our tangents section to find updated information on road closures, trail closures and campground status.

iPhone and Android downloads with :
- Trailspotting Guides: Lassen Manzanita Lake
- Trailspotting Guides: Lassen Volcanic National Park Bundle

Tangents:
- Trailspotting Images: Manzanita Lake on Flickr
- EveryTrail: Hiking in Lassen Park

- NPS website: Lassen Volcanic National Park
- NPS website: Hiking Trail Conditions
- NPS website: Highway, Weather & Campground Conditions

Subway Caves, Lassen National Forest

2010-09-18T09:55:00.000-07:00

Rating:
Area: Lassen
Distance: 0-1 mile
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 50ft (at 4,300ft)

Twenty thousand years ago and just 15 miles north of Lassen Volcanic National Park, the ground broke apart and huge volumes of volcanic rock poured forth to create the enormous expanse that is the Hat Creek Lava Flow. Exposed to the air, the top of the lava flow began to cool and solidify, while molten rock below continued to flow - insulated by the now solid roof and creating lava tubes which carried the red-hot rock miles from its source.

Subway Cave is a section of lava tube less than a third of a mile long, located between two areas of ceiling cave-ins. Substantial concrete steps have been constructed at both ends of the cave, providing easy access for all would-be spelunkers.

Flashlights are a necessity in the cave, but forgetful folk may be able to rent them from the information center at Old Station just south of the Subway Cave park. Jackets are recommended too since the cave has a cool atmosphere despite outside temperatures.

Subway Cave is open between May and October only as winter weather conditions restrict access during other times of the year.

iPhone and Android downloads with :
- Trailspotting Guides: Lassen Subway Cave
- Trailspotting Guides: Lassen Volcanic National Park Bundle

Tangents:

- Trailspotting Images: Subway Cave on Flickr

- Wikipedia: Lava Tubes
- The Virtual Lava Tube

Mount Tallac, Lake Tahoe

2010-08-15T17:46:00.000-07:00

Rating:
Area: Tahoe
Distance: 9½ miles
Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation gain: 3,500ft (from 6,400 - 9,735ft)

The jewel in the crown of mountains which ring Lake Tahoe, Mt. Tallac promises unparalleled views from its summit 9,735ft above sea level.

Our trail map takes you to the top via the most direct summer route; through lush forest, along scenic ridgelines, past small alpine lakes and across blazingly colorful wildflower strewn high-altitude meadows. Sure the 3,500ft elevation gain is greater than you might experience on most day hikes, but both the journey and the destination are worth every single thigh-burning step.

June to October is the best time to hike Tallac and although some snow may prevail at higher elevations until late July, it's unlikely to cause problems for hikers. Summer thunderstorms are common from mid afternoon, so we recommend an early start to avoid being exposed at high elevations at these times.

Remember to register for your Desolation Wilderness permit at the Mount Tallac trailhead, which is thankfully free to day hikers. Backpackers are required to arrange their paid permit in advance.

iPhone and Android downloads with :
- Trailspotting Guides: Mount Tallac
- Trailspotting Guides: Lake Tahoe Peak Baggers Bundle
- Trailspotting Guides: Lake Tahoe Family Friendly Bundle
- Trailspotting Guides: Lake Tahoe Best Hikes Bundle

Tangents:
- Trailspotting Images: Mt. Tallac on Flickr

- Wikipedia: Mount Tallac

Muir Woods and Tourist Club Loop

2010-06-27T13:28:00.000-07:00

Rating:
Area: Marin County/Mt Tam
Distance: 4½ miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Medium
Elevation gain: 1,200ft (from 140 - 1,000ft)

The ancient California redwood trees of Muir Woods National Monument are one of several remaining groves up and down the coast that escaped the lumberjacks thanks to forward thinking preservationists.

Located just North of San Francisco this is the ideal place for visitors from around the world to come and marvel at the giant redwoods (which in this park grow up to 250ft tall and 14 feet wide) but it also means the area frequently attracts large crowds, bus tours and overflowing parking lots.

Our hillside loop trail offers a great way to visit Muir Woods National Monument and avoid many of the crowds, before returning along a scenic route over Mt. Tamalpais State Park that most visitors don't get to see.

One additional benefit along this trail is the chance to spend a little time at the Tourist Club. Enjoy your favorite tipple on the balcony overlooking the forest before continuing along the Redwood Trail back to the trailhead. You don't have to be a member of the Tourist Club to enjoy the facilities, but you do have negotiate around a minefield of members-only event days which are listed on their website (link provided below).

This route doesn't enter Muir Woods by the main entrance, so if you plan to enjoy the full Muir Woods experience - such as the 2 mile Redwood Creek loop - then please remember to pay the fee as you exit the park.

Route Summary:
Panoramic Trail > Ocean View Trail > Muir Woods National Monument > Dipsea Trail > Sun Trail > Redwood Trail > Panoramic Trail.

iPhone and Android downloads with :
- Trailspotting Guides: Muir Woods and Tourist Club Loop
- Trailspotting Guides: Mt. Tamalpais Bundle

Tangents:
- Trailspotting Images: Muir Woods on Flickr
- Official site: Muir Woods National Monument

- Tourist Club SF

Mt Tamalpais East Peak

2010-06-27T11:05:00.001-07:00

Rating:
Area: Marin County/Mt Tam
Distance: ½ mile
Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 230ft (from 2,340 - 2,572ft)

Hikes don't get much shorter or much better than this half-mile round trip trail to top of Mt. Tamalpais, just North of San Francisco. Known to locals simply as Mt Tam, Mt. Tamalpais State Park is the perfect day-trip and once you're here it's hard to believe you're just a stone's throw away from the second biggest city on the West Coast.

The trail to the peak begins on an easy boardwalk and continues up timber steps before leading to a more rugged and rocky path towards the summit. We've labeled this as an easy hike, though there are some occasional isolated steep steps and scrambles which may challenge the less mobile.

The views are what make this such a highly rated hike in our opinion, which stretch out across the entire northern part of the San Francisco Bay area in good weather.

Be sure to leave enough time for the free Gravity Railroad Museum which memorializes the historic scenic mountain railway and the free-wheeling return journey back to Mill Valley.

iPhone and Android downloads with :
- Trailspotting Guides: Mt Tamalpais East Peak
- Trailspotting Guides: Mt Tamalpais Bundle

Tangents:
- Trailspotting Images: Mt Tamalpais East Peak on Flickr
- Official site: Mt. Tamalpais State Park

- You Tube: Mt. Tamalpais Gravity Railroad

Lower Yosemite Falls

2010-04-07T17:43:00.000-07:00

Rating:
Area: Yosemite
Distance: 1 mile
Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 50ft (from 4,000 - 4,050ft)

Getting up close and personal with one of the Western United States' most magnificent waterfalls without the need for a long arduous trek is part of what makes Yosemite National Park so popular.

Hiking to Lower Yosemite Falls on a one mile loop trail takes you on a very pleasant and winding journey through forest, spotting the occasional deer, before opening up to reveal the 320ft wall of cascading water crashing onto the rocks. The route is very easy, with virtually no inclined sections.

The bridge over the creek provides great vantage points and photo opportunities, and those with more energy to burn might choose to skip off the trail and scramble over the many boulders towards the very bottom of the falls.

Tangents:
- Trailspotting TV: Lower Yosemite Falls on YouTube
- Trailspotting Images: Lower Yosemite Falls on Flickr
- Wikipedia: Yosemite Falls
- Official Site: Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Inspiration Point

2009-12-22T13:56:00.000-08:00

Rating:
Area: Yosemite
Distance: 2½ miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: 1,000ft (from 4,400 - 5,400ft)

If the Tunnel View crowds are getting between you and one of Yosemite's most famous viewpoints, consider the short hike up to Inspiration Point where you can admire this signature Yosemite Valley scene on your lonesome.

Before the 1930s construction of the Wawona Tunnel and the adjacent parking area, the road from Wawona snaked precariously up and down the hillside. Now overgrown with manzanita and new pines, Inspiration Point is the former parking spot located on the old road.

This short narrow trail begins in the satellite parking lot and heads directly up to Inspiration Point, intersecting with the old road on the way. You’ll know you’re at your destination when you reach a large flat expanse. Head to the right and you’ll find splendid unobstructed views of the valley and Bridalveil Falls without a tour bus in sight (or ear-shot).

The shortest route back is the way you hiked up, though alternatively you can follow our route to the West, which returns along the grade of the old road and returns to the intersection with the hiking trail.

iPhone and Android downloads with :
- Trailspotting Guides: Yosemite Inspiration Point

Tangents:
- Trailspotting Images: Inspiration Point on Flickr
- Official Site: Yosemite National Park
- Wikipedia: History of the Yosemite Area

Upper Yosemite Falls

2009-12-21T11:58:00.000-08:00

Rating:
Area: Yosemite
Distance: 7 miles
Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty: Medium
Elevation gain: 2,700ft (from 4,000 - 6,700ft)

Conquer one of the largest waterfalls in the world on a steady and well maintained hiking trail through and experience some of the best Yosemite Valley views on the way.

At last count Yosemite Falls was considered the seventh largest waterfall in the world, and since it's tiered, only the lowest 320 feet of falls can be viewed at close quarters without hitting the hiking trails. This trail takes you from the Lower Falls viewpoint to the top of the Upper Falls in 3½ miles and 2,700 feet of elevation gain.

You'll have plenty of excuses to stop for breaks on the climb, since photo opportunities are many. Sweeping panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and Half Dome become increasingly impressive as the elevation increases, and eventually you'll turn a corner and the towering Upper Yosemite Falls will be revealed.

Water crashes down 1400ft of sheer vertical granite face into the pool below, before gushing off into the smaller mid-falls area. From here the trail does not approach the rushing water, but instead veers and switchbacks upwards towards the top of the falls where a viewing are provides limited views over the top of the falls.

If you have a little more energy left over, cross the Yosemite Bridge creek and head up another 300ft and ¾mile to Yosemite Point for an even higher vantage point over the valley.

Tangents:
- Trailspotting TV: Upper Yosemite Falls on YouTube
- Trailspotting Images: Upper Yosemite Falls on Flickr
- Official Site: Yosemite National Park
- Wikipedia: Yosemite Falls

Las Trampas Rocky Ridge Loop

2009-10-18T17:55:00.000-07:00

Rating:
Area: East Bay
Distance: 4½ miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy (some elevation gain)
Elevation gain: 1,100ft (from 1,050 - 1,950ft)

Wildflower lovers will love the springtime scenery of Las Trampas Regional Wilderness, but when the blooms have faded this East Bay park still has plenty to marvel at. Eagle-eyed hikers in autumn and winter will spot birds of prey amongst the gliding turkey vultures, and there's also the chance of a golden eagle sighting.

You'll be immediately aware that there's some elevation gain to this trail, and in fact this clockwise route up the westerly slope gets all of the hill climbing out of the way in one go. When you arrive at the Upper San Leandro watershed gate, hang a left and take the single track trail to the ridgeline. The watershed is off-limits without a hiking permit.

From the top of Rocky Ridge it's easy to forget that you're barely a stone's throw from the towns of Danville and San Ramon, and you can delight in the rolling scenery of the park below and distant views of the San Francisco Bay.

Follow the ridgeline south while admiring the scenery, but watch out for white patches of rock exposed in the trail. It's not rock, but actually clumps of shell fossils, which illustrate that everything around you was once below sea level. Return to the trailhead and complete this loop by returning along the gently descending and partially shaded Elderberry Trail.

Note - The heat of the summer months in East Bay parks is not kind on hikers and Las Trampas is no exception since most of the trails are exposed and offer little shade.

iPhone and Android downloads with :
- Trailspotting Guides: Las Trampas Rocky Ridge

Tangents:
- Trailspotting Images: Rocky Ridge Loop on Flickr
- Official Site: East Bay Parks (inc trail map)
- Yelp: Las Trampas Regional Wilderness

Mt. Tamalpais West Point Inn

2009-08-28T13:58:00.000-07:00

Rating:
Area: Marin County/Mt Tam
Distance: 9 miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Medium
Elevation gain: 1,800ft (from 1,400 - 2,572ft)

There's a way up Mt. Tamalpais for everyone whether you're a biker, hiker, driver or equestrian. Opt for the easy drive-up option and you'll be taking the third of a mile plank-walk to the rocky summit and some of the best views in the bay area, but you'd be missing out on the opportunity to experience some really great Marin hiking trails.

Our nine mile tour around the south slope of Mount Tam begins at the Pan Toll ranger station, where you can ditch the car, grab a map and head for the Old Mine Trail which begins slightly east of the road junction. Immediately you'll be heading along a narrow trail through oak woodland and intermittent fields of rolling hillside grasses. Head for the Mountain Theater, a four thousand seat amphitheater that's been a venue for the spring Mountain Plays since 1913, then pick up the Rock Spring Trail which will take you to the West Point Inn.

The West Point Inn is a remnant of a bygone era, in a time when steam power was a favorite way to travel up the mountain thanks to the long-gone Mt. Tamalpais Scenic Railway. Here you can top up your water supplies, or take a picnic and toss a few horseshoes before resuming the hike. If you're really lucky you might also find yourself at the Inn on one of their special Pancake Breakfast days.

The trail continues up the west side of the inn, up Old Railroad Grade. After a while we duck off this wide dusty railroad route in search of a little shade and some more greenery, and find relief in the Tavern Pump and Fern Creek trails which transport us towards the summit.

Just before the summit is the East Peak parking area, where you'll meet up with the car-bound masses in search of Mount Tamalpais' summit. Here you'll also find the opportunity to browse the small gravity railroad museum and satisfy your sweet tooth at the snack shop. Mmm, if only there was an ice-cream stall on every summit ..

The return journey is very much a downhill affair involving different trails and different scenery, including some new-growth redwoods and a very pleasant section of the Matt Davis Trail.

Route Summary:
Old Mine > Rock Spring > Old RR Grade > Tavern Pump > Fern Creek > Verna Dunshee > Fern Creek > Old RR Grade > Nora > Matt Davis

iPhone and Android downloads with :
- Trailspotting Guides: Mt. Tamalpais West Point Inn
- Trailspotting Guides: Mt Tamalpais Bundle

Tangents:
- Trailspotting Images: Mt. Tam East Peak on Flickr
- Mt. Tamalpais Gravity Railroad on YouTube
- California State Parks: Mt. Tamalpais
- California State Parks: Park Map (page 6)
- West Point Inn

Special Feature: Lassen Volcano Country

2009-08-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

Four hours north east of San Francisco and an hour from the nearest interstate highway, the phrase "off the beaten track" could've been coined for Lassen Volcanic National Park. Overlooked by locals and visitors alike the place is something of a treasured secret to those in the know, and should you choose to visit you’ll find tranquil surroundings even on the busiest holiday weekends.

The tranquility of the park belies its true violent nature, however. Situated at the southern-most point on the Cascade Range evidence of volcanic activity is everywhere in this park, including examples of all four types of volcano (plug dome, shield, cinder cone and stratovolcano).

The most prominent landmark in the park at 10,457 feet above sea level is Lassen Peak, also recently the most explosive landmark, when in 1915 witnesses observed explosive eruptions from the summit which cast volcanic ash up to 200 miles away.

Hikers are spoiled for choice in Lassen Volcanic National Park, with 150 miles of great trails throughout the region. Trailspotting's growing selection of hiking trails cover a wide variety of different experiences, from climbing a cinder cone and scaling Lassen Peak to pleasant lake walks, and descents into pitch-black lava tubes.

The fee to enter Lassen Volcanic National Park is valid for several days, and many uncrowded campgrounds are situated throughout the park. If you prefer a solid roof over your head, then you may like to check out Brokeoff Cabins near the north entrance or the Mineral Lodge close to the south entrance.

Snow covers the Lassen landscape for much of the year and some roads and trails may not be open - even in summer. Check the links in our tangents section to find updated information on road closures, trail closures and campground status.

iPhone and Android downloads with :
- Trailspotting Guides: Lassen Volcanic National Park Bundle

Tangents:
- Trailspotting Images: Lassen Volcanic National Park on Flickr

- EveryTrail: Hiking in Lassen Park

- NPS website: Lassen Volcanic National Park
- NPS website: Hiking Trail Conditions

- NPS website: Highway, Weather & Campground Conditions

Brokeoff Mountain, Lassen Volcanic NP

2009-08-07T13:00:00.000-07:00

Rating:
Area: Lassen
Distance: 7 miles
Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty: Medium
Elevation gain: 2,600ft (from 6,600 - 9,235ft)

Heading up to Lassen Volcanic National Park with a mind to hiking a mountain, most people would choose Lassen Peak, and for good reason. Not only do you get the bragging rights of climbing the highest and most visible mountain in the park, but you also get bonus points for hiking to the top of an active volcano. It's just that we think that Brokeoff Mountain is an even better hike.

At 9,235ft Brokeoff Mountain is the largest remnant of Mt. Tehama, an older and larger volcano which has eroded away over the past half-million years by ice ages and volcanic forces. Climbing to the summit takes you to the second highest point in the park and provides great views over many other summits, including Lassen Peak itself.

About half of the trail's 3½ mile journey to the summit takes a gently inclining route along the side of a mountain creek surrounded by lush vegetation and pine trees, which can also offer plenty of welcome shade from summer sunshine. At about the half-way mark the trail picks up more elevation and heads up to a saddle before switchbacking up the South face of the mountain to the summit.

iPhone and Android downloads with :
- Trailspotting Guides: Brokeoff Mountain
- Trailspotting Guides: Lassen Volcanic National Park Bundle

Tangents:
- Trailspotting TV: Brokeoff Mountain on You Tube
- Trailspotting Images: Brokeoff Mountain photoset on Flickr
- EveryTrail: Hiking in Lassen Park

- NPS website: Hiking Brokeoff Mountain
- NPS website: Hiking Trail Conditions

- NPS website: Highway, Weather & Campground Conditions

Cluster Lakes, Lassen Volcanic NP

2009-07-08T12:19:00.000-07:00

Rating:
Area: Lassen
Distance: 11 miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Medium
Elevation gain: 1,100ft (from 6,600 - 7,200ft)

Whether you measure by quality or quantity, this hike's a winner either way. Explore at least a dozen pristine lakes and pools on this loop trail in the heart of Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Begin the hike at the north side of Summit Lake where you'll find kids from the nearby campground frolicking in the cool waters. Head for more serene waters by following the trail up 400ft of elevation, revealing the eastern flanks of Lassen Peak behind you, before descending into a valley created by lava beds once spewed from the caldera of nearby Hat Mountain.

The pine-shaded route around the loop trail traces the flanks of the lakes. Both the Upper and Lower Twin Lakes and Silver Lake are particularly inviting and a great place to take a cooling dip before rejoining the trail, heading uphill and closing off the loop. (Note that Google Maps have mislabeled some of the lakes, so we've called out the correct names).

With so much water around these parts, you'll be thankful that you remembered the bug spray - without it you'll be mosquito bait. Also, if you prefer a shorter hike we recommend a 7-8 mile, 800ft gain out-and-back route to the twin Lakes.

iPhone and Android downloads with :
- Trailspotting Guides: Cluster Lakes
- Trailspotting Guides: Lassen Volcanic National Park Bundle

Tangents:
- Trailspotting TV: Cluster lake on You Tube
- Trailspotting Images: Cluster Lakes on Flickr

- EveryTrail: Hiking in Lassen Park

- NPS website: Lassen Volcanic National Park
- NPS website: Hiking Trail Conditions
- NPS website: Highway, Weather & Campground Conditions

Mt. Eddy & Dead Fall Lakes

2009-07-06T18:49:00.000-07:00

Rating:
Area: Shasta/Trinity
Distance: 10½ miles
Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty: Medium/Hard
Elevation gain: 2,225ft (from 6,800 - 9,025ft)

Mount Eddy might be the highest peak in the Klamath Mountains but barely anyone notices it, since it's overshadowed by Mount Shasta, a staggering five thousand feet taller. Overshadowed though it may be, the scenery, solitude and variety of the wilderness around Mount Eddy should not be overlooked.

The Dead Fall Lakes lie in a bowl almost entirely ringed by mountain peaks, which is where the first half of this hike takes us. The lakes are reason enough to put on your hiking boots even if you don't plan on a Mount Eddy summit, and are often a destination for backpacking campers.

Begin at the trailhead on the single-track route which initially runs parallel to the road, labelled with a Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) sign (ignore the wider faint fire road at the trailhead). There's only 400ft elevation gain to the Dead Fall lakes, meaning you can put more effort into admiring the wide landscape vistas over the nearby terrain and the more distant Trinity Alps to the South West.

Three miles into the hike you'll reach the lakes and the point where you'll decide whether to tackle the extra two-and-a-half miles and 1800ft elevation gain to the top of Mount Eddy. The summit trail is a relatively pleasant uphill walk, rarely rocky, and with switchbacks making the final part of the climb as straightforward as the rest. Views from the top are superb, including first and only views of Mt. Shasta from the trail.

We hiked this route at the end of May. Snow on Parks Creek Rd usually makes the trailhead inaccessible before this time, and driving on the snow is highly inadvisable due to chances of getting stranded in such a remote location. We recommend that you use either your GPS or your vehicle's trip counter to judge your location on the road, so if snow blocks your path you'll know whether its feasible to park up and hike the rest of the way to the trailhead.

iPhone and Android downloads with :
- Trailspotting Guides: Mt. Eddy & Dead Fall Lakes

Tangents:
- Trailspotting Images: Mt Eddy on Flickr
- Shasta-Trinity National Forest Website
- SummitPost: Mount Eddy
- The Quantum Pontiff: September Mt. Eddy Hike

Horsetail Falls & Pyramid Creek

2009-06-05T12:55:00.000-07:00

Rating: (or out of season)
Area: Tahoe
Distance: 3 miles
Type: Part-loop
Difficulty: Medium
Elevation gain: 600ft (from 6,100 - 6,700ft)

Late spring and early summer may be the best times to experience Horsetail Falls, but a hike up the Pyramid Creek trail to the falls is still a worthwhile experience at any time of the year. If you can find a parking spot at the busy US50 trailhead that is.

The great views begin almost immediately as you happen across the first of a series of small waterfalls and cascades on your way to the 500 foot gem of a waterfall which is this hike's ultimate goal. Also take time to look behind you and marvel towards Lovers Leap and the glaciated valley bowl below, which reminded us of Yosemite Valley.

Trail-finding can be difficult during the middle part of the hike as it traverses over bald expanses of granite. Our recommended outbound route roughly follows alongside the creek for much of the initial loop before meeting up with the out-and-back section of the trail which also follows the creek. Stick by Pyramid Creek and you won't be taking any unwanted detours.

Although the trail is relatively short you'll want to allow some time to both admire the views and tackle the terrain. The trail is relatively rough, so you'll be negotiating around and over rocky ground for over half the journey.

A fee is payable for the use of the trailhead parking lot. Self-registration into the Desolation Wilderness section of the hike is mandatory but free - permits and pencils are available at the boundary where a posted sign details rules about the protected wilderness area.

iPhone and Android downloads with :
- Trailspotting Guides: Horsetail Falls
- Trailspotting Guides: Lake Tahoe Family Friendly Bundle
- Trailspotting Guides: Lake Tahoe Best Hikes Bundle

Tangents:
- Trailspotting TV: Horsetail Falls on You Tube
- Trailspotting Images: Horsetail Falls on Flickr

- Waterfalls West: Horsetail Falls
- Wikipedia: Desolation Wilderness

Whiskeytown Falls

2009-05-27T13:20:00.000-07:00

Rating:
Area: Shasta/Trinity
Distance: 3 miles
Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty: Easy/Medium
Elevation gain: 700ft (from 2,200 - 2,900ft)

For several decades Whiskeytown Falls was a closely guarded secret - possibly so secret that reports suggest that at one time the National Park Service might have actually misplaced its location. Today it's hard to miss the signs for the falls however, which lie just a few miles west of the boats and wave-riders which frolic upon the expanses of Whiskeytown Lake.

The recently opened James K. Carr Trail to Whiskeytown Falls begins at the side of Crystal Creek Road. Starting out on level ground the trail soon crosses the creek before climbing gently but steadily uphill. The winding trail passes through a mixture of oak and pine trees which become increasingly dense until you happen upon the torrent of water which is the waterfall.

Whiskeytown Falls cascades down a series of steps, with a total height around 220ft. Though it's impossible to capture the whole of the falls within the lens of a camera, there are still many photo opportunities to be had and the trail also climbs part-way up the falls for some even better views.

Spring and early summer may be the best times to experience these falls, and although the hike might be uncomfortable for some on the hottest days, the heat is somewhat mitigated by the shade of trees for most of the journey.

iPhone and Android downloads with :
- Trailspotting Guides: Whiskeytown Falls

Tangents:
- Trailspotting Images: Whiskeytown Falls on Flickr
- NPS: Whiskeytown National Recreational Area
- Waterfalls West: Whiskeytown Falls

Sign Hill, South San Francisco

2009-05-27T12:30:00.000-07:00

Rating:
Area: San Francisco Peninsula
Distance: 1 mile
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Medium
Elevation gain: 400ft (from 200 - 600ft)

Almost everybody flying through San Francisco International Airport will recognize the landmark that is Sign Hill, a century old testament to South San Francisco's past. Though the hill no longer overlooks the steel mills which defined the city, they've now been replaced with the more modern industry of biotechnology.

Short yet memorable in its own way, a counter-clockwise loop of the Letters Trail and the Iris Hill Trail first provides great exposed views of the urban environment below and then returns down a pleasant set of woodland steps.

Tangents:
- Trailspotting Images: Sign Hill on Flickr
- Yelp Reviews: Sign Hill
- Wikipedia: South San Francisco & Sign Hill

Point Reyes, Bear Valley Loop

2009-05-18T13:11:00.000-07:00

(Image by Brian Rueb)

Rating:
Area: Marin County
Distance: 13 miles
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Medium
Elevation gain: 1,700ft (from 50 - 1,300ft)

Can't decide whether to hit the hills or the beach this weekend? This route into the Point Reyes National Seashore might be the perfect solution for you.

The wide Bear Valley Trail leading toward the Pacific coastline and away from the visitors center might be one of the busiest trails in the park, but just a mile and a half later you'll leaving the crowds and heading up the Old Pine Trail and into the forested hills. The two mile grade of Old Pine Trail always maintains a respectably gentle hill climb, before switching onto the Woodward Valley Trail and an equally pleasant two mile descent heading towards sweeping ocean views.

The first leg of the return journey follows the Coastal Trail southward, with side-trips to the beaches below, before returning along Bear Valley trail which traces the route of Coast Creek back into the hills.

If you have the time, consider checking out the Earthquake Trail, a short interpretive route which explores the geology of the San Andreas Fault Zone on which the Bear Valley visitor center rests.

Route Summary:
Bear Valley > Old Pine > Woodward Way > Coast > Bear Valley

Tangents:
- Flickr Images: Bear Valley Loop on Flickr
- National Park Service: Point Reyes National Seashore
- NorCal Explorer: Woodward Valley & Sculptured Beach