Trailspotting

Mt Olga Fire Tower, Marlboro VT

2026-08-12T12:50:45.450-04:00

• 4-star hikes
• 1 to 2 mile options
• Moderate | Gain 280 to 530 feet
• Marlboro, VT | Southern Region
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Hanging out atop the Mount Olga Fire Tower.

The summit of Mount Olga is capped by a fire lookout tower with an open cabin for hikers year-round, offering expansive views of Mount Snow, the Deerfield Valley, and the Green Mountains on clear days. It's a short hike for a big reward, and we describe three different routes to reach it.

The Molly Stark State Park Loop is the classic approach and starts at a trailhead with bathrooms and picnic tables, though a state park fee applies. From the Hogback and Mt Olga Trailhead Parking on Molly Stark Trail Road, parking is free but there are no facilities on site. The presence of the Hogback Mountain Country Store and Vermont Distillers sitting just across the road might compensate however. Both Tower Trail routes begin here.

Trail Options Expand KMZ · Google Earth ·

⬤ 4★ Molly Stark State Park Route 1.8 mi loop, moderate, gain 520 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions* GPX?

⬤ 4★ Tower Trail Out and Back 1.4 mi out & back, moderate, gain 280 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions**

⬤ 4★ Tower Trail Loop 2.1 mi loop, moderate, gain 530 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions**

$ *State Park fee P **Free parking

⬤ Molly Stark State Park Route
Beginning across from the park office, this route crosses a trail bridge over a small brook and climbs gradually through forest on a series of switchbacks. The woods shift to spruce and fir near the top. A short spur off the main loop leads to the summit and fire lookout tower before the trail continues back down to the park.

⬤ Tower Trail Out and Back
The shortest route to the summit, climbing steadily from the Hogback trailhead through mixed forest. Watch for old ski lift equipment still standing in the woods, left over from a ski area that operated on the mountain until 1987.

Beginning the loop out of Molly Stark State Park.

⬤ Tower Trail Loop
Follows the same Tower Trail up from the Hogback trailhead, then completes a loop back down by a different route. Slightly longer and with a bit more elevation gain than the out-and-back, it passes the same ski lift ruins along the way.

Whichever trailhead you use, the routes converge at the base of the fire lookout tower. This is a steel structure originally built at Townshend State Forest and moved to the Mount Olga summit in 1955. An open-grille decked series of steps to the top aren't the best choice for anyone uneasy with heights, but the payoff at the top is likely worth the effort for all.

Looking up at the summit's lookout tower.

Open grille decking on the stairs to the cabin.

The cabin provides excellent Southern Vermont views.

Old ski lift structures on the Tower Trail.

External links:
Molly Stark State Park website

Trailspotting nearby:
4★ Lye Brook Falls (4 mi)
4★ Madame Sherri Forest (3-9 mi)
4★ Shelburne Fire Tower (3 mi)
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Vermont Fire Towers
Discover our map of fire towers and the trails to find them.

New England Summits
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New England Waterfalls
Trails to spectacular waterfalls around the region.

Island Line Trail, Burlington VT

2026-08-08T15:00:44.930-04:00

• 5-star trails
• 6 to 27 mile options
• Easy | Minimal gradient
• Burlington, VT | Northwest Region
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Cycling the causeway north of the city of Burlington.

The Rutland Railroad engineers who drove a line straight into Lake Champlain in 1899 were solving a freight problem, not planning a recreational trail. Built to shorten the route toward Canadian markets and bypass a competing line, the corridor never turned a reliable profit. Following a strike in 1953, passenger service was discontinued and the line was abandoned altogether in 1963. After sitting unused for decades, local advocates converted the historic right-of-way into the Island Line Rail Trail, linking downtown Burlington to the Champlain Islands.

While the full trail spans over 13 miles from Oakledge Park south of downtown Burlington to South Hero Island, this review focuses on its most remarkable stretch - the 3.2-mile northern section running from the free parking near Airport Park to the south dock of the seasonal bike ferry.

⬤ Asphalt ⬤ Hardpack ⬤ Road

Trail Options Expand KMZ · Google Earth ·

⏹ 5★ Island Line Causeway 3.2 mi each way, easy, minimal gradient
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

⬤⬤⬤ Island Line Rail Trail 13.4 mi each way, easy, minimal gradient
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

P Expand map for more parking

On clear days, the causeway provides open, uninterrupted views in all directions. Looking east, Vermont's Green Mountains rise up, with Mount Mansfield — the state's highest peak — prominently visible on the horizon. To the west across Lake Champlain, the Adirondack skyline traces the New York shoreline. Because there is virtually no tree cover along this stretch, both mountain ranges remain visible for nearly the entire crossing.

The hardpack, crushed-stone surface is firm and manageable on most breeds of bicycle, though loose stone can gather in patches, particularly after severe storms. Minimal elevation gain makes for an easy ride, but once on the causeway proper, the trail is completely exposed, offering open water views and providing no shade for the remainder of the route.

The Causeway section begins in the shade.

Near South Hero Island, a 200-foot cut breaks the causeway to allow boat traffic to pass through Lake Champlain. During peak season, cyclists and pedestrians can ride the donation-funded bike ferry across the gap to complete the full route. The ferry crossing takes only a few minutes, operating daily through the summer and on weekends and holidays in the spring and fall. Even when the ferry is not running, the causeway is well worth the trip, as reaching South Hero Island beyond the gap is not necessary to experience the best section of the trail.

Three free parking areas sit close to the causeway, and the primary highlighted route begins at the closest lot. If that lot is full, head for Airport Park (directions), which offers a large parking lot, public restrooms, a playground, and picnic areas. Open our expanded map to see all free and paid parking options along the entire trail - complete with driving direction links - so you can choose the ideal starting point for your trip.

⚠ Trail Conditions: Hardpack surface from Airport Park and along the causeway. Minimal elevation gain.

Woodland recedes and lake and mountain views take over.

Looking east towards Mount Mansfield.

A remnant of the reason this trail exists.

Span this gap in the trail with the seasonal bike ferry.

Donation based ferry for pedestrians and cyclists.

External links:
Island Line Bike Ferry at LocalMotion.com
Island Line Rail Trail at TrailLink
Island Line Rail Trail at Wikipedia

Trailspotting nearby:
5★ Mount Mansfield (5-8 mi)
5★ Stowe Pinnacle (3 mi)
Show Area Map

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The first and only complete rail trail map. Photos, reviews and downloads.

New England Fire Towers
Discover our map of fire towers and the trails to find them.

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Stowe Pinnacle, Stowe VT

2026-08-04T10:10:54.747-04:00

• 5-star hike
• 3 mile options
• Moderate | Gain 1,060 to 1,560 feet
• Stowe, VT | Northwest Region
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Stunning views from the summit of Stowe Pinnacle.

Stowe Pinnacle tops out on open granite caps, with peaks and valleys of northwestern Vermont visible in nearly every direction. Mount Mansfield's ridgeline runs along one stretch of the horizon, and Camel's Hump rises above the Worcester Range along another. Below, the Lamoille Valley spreads out in a patchwork of farm fields and forest, with the town of Stowe at its center.

Stowe Pinnacle can be reached by either of two trails of similar length, starting from different trailheads. We're fans of the Pinnacle Meadow Trail for its variety of terrain and views: it opens into a meadow early on before returning to the woods, giving hikers a break from the tree cover part way up. The route known as the Pinnacle Trail, by contrast, remains under forest canopy throughout and has an additional 500 feet of elevation gain to reach the same summit.

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⬤ 5★ Stowe Pinnacle Meadow Trail 3.4 mi out & back, moderate, gain 1060 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

⬤ Stowe Pinnacle Trail [Y] 3.3 mi out & back, gain 1560 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

P Free parking Y Yet to review

Both trails merge about a mile below the summit, and from that point the remaining climb is the same regardless of which trailhead you started from. This stretch includes a couple of short, steep, rocky sections where hikers work over and around boulders. Footwear with good traction is an advantage here, and it's worth taking even greater care when conditions are anything other than dry, since the rock can be slick even with a light rain or morning dew.

Near the top, a sign points toward a side path marked as a vista point. We found it to be mostly overgrown, with the view largely blocked by vegetation, so it's not much of a loss to skip it and continue straight to the spectacular summit instead.

The easier Meadow route offers more trail variety.

Short, steeper rocky sections on both routes.

Steps near the summit. | Resting dragonfly.

Trailspotting nearby:
5★ Mount Mansfield (5-8 mi)
5★ Island Line Trail (5-8 mi)

New England Summits
Explore mountain-top hikes around New England with Trailspotting.

New England Waterfalls
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New England Fire Towers
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Mount Mansfield, Stowe VT

2026-07-29T15:19:22.060-04:00

• 5-star hikes
• 5 to 8 mile options
• Moderate & Hard | Gain 2,550 to 2,930 feet
• Stowe & Underhill, VT | Northwest Region
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South view from Mount Mansfield's ridgeline

Not to be outdone by New Hampshire, which lost theirs in a rockfall in 2003, imaginative Vermonters claim to have their own ‘Man In The Mountain’ in Mount Mansfield near Stowe, which is also the highest point in the entire state. When viewed from the east, Mount Mansfield’s summit ridgeline is said to form the outline of a reclining human face. Its named high points run north to south: the Forehead, Nose, Upper and Lower Lip, Chin, and Adam's Apple. The Chin, at 4,393 feet, is Mount Mansfield’s highest point.

Mansfield’s peaks stretch beyond the treeline, revealing granite ledges and alpine tundra that offer superb panoramas across Northwestern Vermont, and across Lake Champlain to the jagged, distant skyline of the Adirondack mountains.

Trail Options Expand KMZ · Google Earth ·

⬤ 5★ Maple & Sunset Loop 7.6 mi loop, hard, gain 2880 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions* GPX?

⬤ 5★ Sunset Ridge Out & Back 5.4 mi out & back, moderate, gain 2550 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions*

⬤ 5★ Ridgeline Route 2.5 mi out & back, moderate, gain 740 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions**

⬤ Long Trail (East) Out & Back [Y] 5.3 mi out & back, gain 2840 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions***

⬤ Long Trail (East) & Haselton Loop [Y] 6.1 mi loop, gain 2930 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions***

$ *State Park fee $ **Toll road P ***Free parking Y Yet to review

Mount Mansfield can be approached either from the east, near the town and ski resort of Stowe, or from the west, beginning at Underhill State Park, which is the most popular option.

Beginning at Underhill State Park on the western flanks of Mount Mansfield, hikers are split on the route they choose to reach the summit. Though a direct out-and-back route on the Sunset Ridge Trail is very popular, the more adventurous hiker might want to try a counterclockwise route that includes an ascent on Maple Ridge.

Approaching the top of the exhilarating Maple Ridge Trail.

⬤ 5★ Maple & Sunset Loop
Most picturesque. Two hard moments.
We think the Maple Ridge route is the most varied and picturesque of the two routes up the western flanks, but apprehensive hikers may be concerned about two areas on the trail that make us categorize the route as 'hard'. The first is a 15-foot granite wall that takes a little effort to climb, but a slope to the wall and a well-positioned crack make it only mildly technical. Young children and people with mobility problems will definitely want to avoid this section, however.

The second hurdle on Maple Ridge is less of a problem – a four-foot gap between rocks that hikers need to jump across. There's no precipitous drop here, just a six-foot-deep pit between the rocks. We reckon this feature is no harder than many stream crossings that hikers frequently have to overcome.

The loop trail also provides a complete ridgeline walk of Mount Mansfield – from the Forehead to the Chin. Unfortunately, the Nose is adorned with communications masts and is off-limits to the public, but there are plenty of other great vantage points along the ridgeline.

Continue to the summit, the Chin, which marks the mountain’s highest point, before returning to the junction with Sunset Ridge Trail and heading back to the trailhead across more granite ledges and rocky terrain. Expect shade for the first two miles and the last mile-and-a-half of the route.

The Chin (4,393 ft) is the tallest Mt Mansfield peak.

⬤ 5★ Sunset Ridge Out & Back
Shortest route but still plenty to see.
Many hikers opt for this shorter out-and-back route from Underhill State Park to Mansfield’s summit, and they are well rewarded for it.

The trail remains rocky throughout, though after 1.3 miles of hiking the forest recedes and loose rock gives way to large granite slabs. Some slabs are slick with traffic and pitched at angles, so it's important to choose good footwear for this hike, preferably at a time that hasn't seen wet weather in a few days.

A brief spur trail to Cantilever Rock is worth a visit, to marvel at the granite shard that seems to hang precipitously off a cliff edge, ready to drop at any moment, but has likely been there for thousands of years.

Two hikers carefully descending Sunset Ridge Trail.

⬤ 5★ Ridgeline Route
Hike the summit from the toll road.
It’s gratifying to know that less vigorous hikers can also enjoy the heady heights of Vermont’s tallest peak, either by simply admiring the views at the end of the auto toll road or by tackling this out-and-back hike to the highest of Mount Mansfield’s features. The hike to the Chin is no cakewalk – expect plenty of rocks, uneven ground, and uphill sections as you work your way to the summit.

The auto toll road is accessible from the east side of the mountain, closest to the town of Stowe. For information about toll road fees, see the link at the foot of this article.

Short spur to Cantilever Rock on Sunset Ridge Trail.

Face in profile. Forehead to the left, Chin to the right.

External Links:
Underhill State Park website (West trails)
Stowe Resort Auto Toll Road
Sunset & Long Trail Loop (6.1 mi 2670 ft) at AllTrails

Trailspotting nearby:
5★ Stowe Pinnacle (3 mi)
5★ Island Line Trail (5-8 mi)

New England Summits
Explore mountain-top hikes around New England with Trailspotting.

New England Fire Towers
Discover our map of fire towers and the trails to find them.

New England Waterfalls
Trails to spectacular waterfalls around the region.

Trail of Ten Falls, Silver Falls OR

2026-07-21T22:45:14.734-04:00

• 5-star hikes
• 1 to 8 mile options
• Moderate | Gain 200 to 1,260 feet
• Silverton, OR | Oregon
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View from the trail behind the South Falls.

As Oregon’s largest state park, Silver Falls State Park is located about 25 miles east of Salem. At the heart of the park is Silver Creek Canyon, famous for its waterfalls and well-maintained trail system.

The canyon's basalt cliffs were shaped millions of years ago by massive lava flows that originated in eastern Oregon and swept all the way to the Pacific Coast. Looking closely at the rock faces reveals distinct layers of lava from separate volcanic events. Over millennia, softer sedimentary rock sandwiched between these hard basalt layers eroded away, creating deep overhangs. The park's trails take advantage of these natural alcoves, allowing hikers to pass directly behind several cascading waterfalls.

Trail Options Expand KMZ · Google Earth ·

⬤ 5★ Trail of Ten Falls 7.7 mi loop, moderate, gain 1260 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

⬤ 5★ Trail of Ten Falls Short Loop 4.9 mi loop, moderate, gain 840 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

⬤ 5★ South Falls & Maple Ridge 2.6 mi loop, moderate, gain 400 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

⬤ 5★ South Falls Loop 1.0 mi loop, moderate, gain 200 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

$ State Park fee

Routes into the canyon begin with a gentle descent through a dense canopy of Douglas firs into a lush understory of ferns and moss. As the trail switchbacks lower, it offers continuous views of South Falls before leading hikers behind the water itself. Paths are mostly natural dirt with occasional rocky patches, and sections near the spray can be slick year-round.

All four routes described in our article begin at the South Falls day-use area. While it features a very large parking lot, it still fills to capacity on most weekends. The well-appointed trailhead area includes restrooms, drinking water, EV charging stations, and a playground, along with a gift shop and a small cafe.

Hike behind South Falls, one of the parks' most impressive cascades.

⬤ Trail of Ten Falls
Full loop with all ten falls.
This complete Canyon Trail and Rim Trail loop passes all ten named waterfalls in clockwise order from South Falls: South Falls, Lower South Falls, Lower North Falls, Double Falls, Drake Falls, Middle North Falls, Twin Falls, North Falls, Upper North Falls, and Winter Falls. At 177 feet, South Falls is the tallest in the park, and the trail passes directly behind it just minutes from the trailhead. Lower South Falls, Middle North Falls, and North Falls, which plunges into a broad grotto, also feature walk-behind sections.

Between waterfalls, the trail undulates along the canyon floor and climbs toward the rim in several places, accounting for the cumulative elevation gain despite the lack of any single steep climb. Short spur trails add optional out-and-back trips to Upper North Falls (about 0.5 miles round trip) and a viewpoint above Winter Falls.

⬤ Trail of Ten Falls Short Loop
Eight falls, skips the two spurs.
This route follows the same Canyon Trail and Rim Trail corridor but omits the spur trail to Upper North Falls and the extended leg to Winter Falls. This cuts roughly 2.8 miles and 420 feet of elevation gain from the full loop while still taking in eight waterfalls, including all four walk-behind cascades. It rejoins the main route along the Rim Trail for the return leg.

Expect moderate trails with rocky, sometimes wet sections.

⬤ South Falls & Maple Ridge
Two of the best falls, quiet return leg.
Starting from the South Falls trailhead, this loop descends the Canyon Trail past South Falls and continues to Lower South Falls, which is the route's second walk-behind waterfall at 93 feet. Rather than heading deeper into the canyon, the trail turns back at Lower South Falls and returns via the Maple Ridge Trail, a quieter path through second-growth forest along the south side of South Fork Silver Creek that avoids retracing the canyon floor.

⬤ South Falls Loop
Hike behind the impressive South Falls.
The shortest option on the map, this loop descends from the South Falls Lodge parking area to the base of South Falls, passes behind the cascade, crosses the footbridge below, and climbs back to the trailhead on the opposite bank. Covering the single most-visited stretch of the park, it can be completed in well under an hour—making it an ideal choice for visitors on a tight schedule or hiking with young children.

Second cascade is the picturesque Lower South Falls.

Waterlogged path behind Lower South Falls.

Longer routes reward with even more views and waterfalls.

External Links:
Silver Falls State Park website

California Waterfalls
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McCall Point, The Dalles OR

2026-07-16T09:20:48.500-04:00

• 5-star hike
• 4 mile out-and-back
• Moderate | Gain 1,010 feet
• The Dalles, OR | Oregon
.

Views beside the trail near Rowena Crest Overlook.

The Columbia River Gorge cuts through the volcanic Cascade Range, exposing layers of basalt laid down by massive lava flows from Eastern Oregon millions of years ago. Following a geologic fault line, the Gorge features a stark asymmetry. The Oregon side to the south boasts near-vertical basalt walls, while the Washington side to the north presents a more sloping, stepped profile. This distinct geological character is on full display from the McCall Point Trail.

The hike to the summit begins adjacent to the Rowena Crest Overlook. Reached by a short paved road, this viewpoint provides sweeping eastward views over the Gorge before you even take a single step on the trail. Roadside parking at the overlook is free.

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⬤ 5★ McCall Point Trail 3.6 mi out & back, moderate, gain 1,010 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

P Free parking

From here, the route climbs into the Nature Conservancy’s Tom McCall Preserve along an otherwise easy trail made moderate only by its 1,000 feet of elevation gain. Well-graded switchbacks ensure the incline remains modest throughout the climb.

Ascending through open grassland, most of the route is exposed to the sun and elements, offering only occasional pockets of shade under scattered oak and pine trees. However, this open landscape rewards hikers with near-constant views. Stepped basalt cliffs, rolling grassy slopes and the river below appear early on and remain in sight for most of the journey. In the spring, the lower meadows erupt with a vibrant blanket of balsamroot and lupine.

Setting out for McCall Point.

The surrounding volcanoes provide a spectacular backdrop to the climb. Looking north, the snow-capped peak of Mount Adams is barely visible from the trailhead but reveals itself fully as you ascend the trail. As you approach the summit, Mount Hood comes into view to the southwest, and on a clear day, your gaze can even stretch northwest to the distinct, truncated silhouette of Mount St. Helens.

This stretch of the Gorge is famous for strong, sustained winds, and you will often see kiteboarders and windsurfers carving through the river far below. We hiked on a notably blustery day and expected the wind to be a challenge the entire time. Surprisingly, the heavy gusts were concentrated at the trailhead and overlook; once we got moving on the trail itself, the wind eased significantly and presented no real difficulty for the rest of the hike.

Annually, 10 million tons of cargo float the Columbia River.

Mount Adams rises above the landscape as you ascend the trail.

Looking eastward into the Gorge from upon high.

Tangents:
• Official: The Nature Conservancy

Best Trails of California
See our favorite hiking trails for each region of California.

Trailspotting the Southwest
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Siltcoos Lake Trail, Dunes City OR

2026-07-10T21:56:17.725-04:00

• 3-star hike
• 4 mile part-loop
• Easy | Gain 630 feet
• Dunes City, OR | Oregon
.

The coastal fog adds atmosphere to the Siltcoos Lake Trail.

The title of this trail is something of a misnomer since the route will lead you only to partial views from the edge of Siltcoos Lake. However, there's still plenty to enjoy if you like a verdant forest hike, and even more on days when coastal fog drifts in to provide a dramatic, atmospheric mood.

Located on hills between US-101 and Siltcoos Lake, this journey begins on an old logging road before narrowing into singletrack. Watch out for notches cut into the sides of large stumps, especially along the north side of the loop, which are signs of century-old logging activity. Loggers once wedged boards into these notches to create platforms from which to saw down the trees, with the added height letting them cut above the trees' wider, harder base. The stumps are large enough that the notches are easy to spot once you know to look for them.

Trail Options Expand KMZ · Google Earth ·

⬤ 3★ Siltcoos Lake Trail 3.8 mi part-loop, easy, gain 630 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

$ National Forest paid parking

Trail conditions are mostly easy with only modest elevation gain. The surface underfoot is a mix of packed dirt and roots, with some uneven sections. Occasional boardwalks have been constructed to cross potential marshland. There's a side trail branching off the south side of the loop, unlikely to appear on your map, that leads to a single lakeside campsite.

Five small primitive campsites and an outhouse can be found where Siltcoos Lake Trail meets the water's edge. You may like to investigate more than one, to find the better views of Siltcoos Lake. These campsites can be reached on the trail by foot or bicycle, or by paddling in from the water. The Forest Service website lists these campsites, but mentions no reservation system, suggesting access is first-come, first-served.

Parking at this National Forest site requires a day-use permit that should be purchased in advance using the Recreation.gov app or website (link below). Accepted annual passes include the Northwest Forest Pass, the Oregon Pacific Coast Passport, and the National Interagency Annual Pass (also known as the America the Beautiful Pass).

Hiking the moderately easy forest trail.

Eerie, translucent Ghost Pipes emerge from a mossy forest floor.

A view across Siltcoos Lake from one of the campgrounds.

Hard to believe this was clear-cut 100 years ago.

Tangents:
• Official: US Forest Service
• Recreation.gov: Advance Day Pass
• AllTrails Public: Siltcoos Lake Trail

Trailspotting Nearby:
• 4★ Tahkenitch Dunes (7 mi)
• 4★ Heceta Head & Hobbit Beach (1-4 mi)
• Show Area Map

Tahkenitch Dunes, Reedsport OR

2026-07-10T14:14:00.000-04:00

• 4-star hike
• 7 mile loop
• Moderate | Gain 560 feet
• Reedsport, OR | Oregon
.

Don't miss the short spur to the Three Mile Lake overlook.

This seven-mile hike in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is a showcase for the wild shoreline landscapes of the central Oregon coast. Set out on a counter-clockwise route along the Tahkenitch Dunes Trail through dense, shady woodland, and you will soon find yourself among moderate dunes that lead toward an expansive sandy beach.

To protect the nesting areas of the diminutive snowy plover, dry sand beach areas are off-limits to recreation during spring and summer. However, there is still plenty of room for hikers along the firm, wetter sand closer to the ocean's edge. An alternative inland route that shortcuts the beach excursion is also available.

Trail Options Expand KMZ · Google Earth ·

⬤ 4★ Tahkenitch Dunes Trail 6.9 mi loop, moderate, gain 560 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

$ National Forest parking fee

Pick up the Three Mile Lake North Trail for the second half of the hike. An initial climb up some soft sand dunes leads onto firmer terrain, back into the shade of increasingly dense vegetation, and eventually, tall evergreen trees. We recommend a brief side trip early on this trail to the scenic overlook that looks down the length of Three Mile Lake, which, curiously, we measured at less than two miles in length. Apparently, the lake's name is something of a historical relic — it originally referred to its distance from the mouth of the Umpqua River, which has since shifted, leaving the lake with a name that is three miles in length only.

Half of the loop is under cover of vegetation.

This loop of the Tahkenitch Dunes is mostly along firm ground, with only a couple of moderately brief sections of soft sand, plus an oceanside walk along wet sand. Around half of the trail is shaded.

The start of the hike is located at the Tahkenitch Campground and Day Use trailhead. Parking at this National Forest site requires a day-use permit that should be purchased in advance using the Recreation.gov app or website (link below). Accepted annual passes include the Northwest Forest Pass, the Oregon Pacific Coast Passport, and the National Interagency Annual Pass (also known as the America the Beautiful Pass).

Hiking across one of two soft sand sections.

A mile long beach section along the ocean's edge.

Beach driftwood within the protected snowy plover habitat.

External Links:
• US Forestry Service
• Advance Day Pass from Recreation.gov

Trailspotting Nearby:
3★ Siltcoos Lake Trail (4 mi)
4★ Heceta Head & Hobbit Beach (1-4 mi)
Show Area Map

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Trailspotting the Southwest
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Drift Creek Falls, Lincoln City OR

2026-07-07T14:21:29.727-04:00

• 5-star hike
• 3 mile out-and-back
• Easy | Gain 420 to 490 feet
• Lincoln City, OR | Oregon
.

A suspension bridge provides an awesome vantage point.

Tucked into the Siuslaw National Forest east of Lincoln City, this out-and-back route along the Drift Creek Falls Trail leads hikers across a steel rope bridge that spans a 100-foot-deep gorge to reveal spectacular views of the nearby Drift Creek Falls.

The trail heads downhill from the trailhead through shaded second-growth forest, switchbacking its way to the bridge. The grade is consistent rather than steep, so the return ascent is manageable, though noticeably more strenuous than the easy walk down.

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⬤ 5★ Drift Creek Falls Trail 2.7 to 3.0 mi out & back, easy, gain 420 to 490 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

$ National Forest parking fee

The steel suspension bridge remains reassuringly sturdy underfoot, even though it sways slightly from the footfalls of other hikers crossing the span. Looking back offers the first views of the impressive 66-foot waterfall that spills over columnar basalt to the creek below. While Drift Creek Falls is most impressive during mid to high-water flows, visitors should keep in mind that the falls can be less dramatic during the low-flow periods of summer.

Beyond the bridge are additional waterfall vantage points, and continuing to the bottom of the trail reveals further creekside views of both the falls and the suspension bridge. This extra section adds 0.3 miles and 70ft elevation gain to your journey.

Hike through dense forest to reach the falls.

The trailhead can be reached by vehicle either from US-101 to the west or OR-18 to the north. Expect miles of paved, winding road that is partly single-track, with plenty of passing places. Approaching from OR-18 includes a brief unpaved section, but pavement resumes shortly after.

Parking at this National Forest site requires a day-use permit that should be purchased in advance using the Recreation.gov app or website (link below). Accepted annual passes include the Northwest Forest Pass, the Oregon Pacific Coast Passport, and the National Interagency Annual Pass (also known as the America the Beautiful Pass).

100 feet above Drift Creek.

Two views of the sturdy, 240 foot long suspension bridge.

Creekside view at the end of the trail.

External Links:
• US Forestry Service Page, Brochure
• Advance Day Pass from Recreation.gov

Trailspotting Nearby:
4★ The Thumb (3-5 mi)
Show Area Map

Mt Burdell Preserve, Marin CA

2026-01-24T13:28:00.001-05:00

• 4-star hikes
• 3 to 5 mile options
• Easy & Moderate | Gain 620 to 1,260 feet
• Novato, CA | San Francisco Region
.

A mix of grass and woodland in this Open Space Preserve.

The 1,627-acre Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve in northern Marin County offers rolling hills blanketed in grassland and punctuated by oak woodlands. Set among expansive views that cross the North Bay hills, the preserve's highest terrain also rewards hikers with sweeping vistas that stretch out into San Pablo Bay.

On our springtime visit, we were rewarded with lush green meadows awash with wildflowers and even spotted a coyote moving through the fields, seemingly unfazed by our presence. We also spoke to several birdwatching enthusiasts who consider the park's varied habitats ideal for identifying feathered creatures of all sizes.

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⬤ 4★ Eagle Rim Loop 5.0 mi loop, moderate, gain 1,260 ft
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⬤ 4★ Middle Burdell Loop 3.4 mi loop, easy, gain 620 ft
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P Free parking

We recommend two looping routes that showcase the preserve's character. The first is an easy three and a half mile loop that sticks to wide, easy trails and utilizes the Middle Burdell Fire Road to cut across the park. Expect open meadows and a forested section that passes Hidden Lake.

Our favorite route, however, is a 5-mile clockwise loop that reaches close to the crest of Mount Burdell's ridgeline on the Eagle Rim Trail and descends into a dramatic steep-sided gully on the Old Quarry Trail. Expect a couple of moderately steep sections with loose material, heading down this trail.

Plenty of free roadside parking is available along San Andreas Drive, close to the trailhead marked on our map. Please be mindful of posted signs and respect the privacy of nearby residential neighborhoods.

Descending the slopes of Old Quarry Trail.

Springtime wildflowers, particularly on higher trails.

A coyote moves through the grassy meadow.

More grassy hillside meadows to hike through.

External Links:
Marin County Parks

Trailspotting Nearby:
4★ Mount Barnabe (5 mi)
4★ EastPeak Mt Tamalpais (1 mi)
4★ Muir Woods Tourist Club Loop (5 mi)
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Corteva Wetlands Preserve, Antioch CA

2026-01-24T13:20:00.003-05:00

• 3-star hikes
• 1 to 3 mile options
• Easy | Gain 20 to 40 feet
• Antioch, CA | San Francisco Region
.

A relocated movie prop, now pumping water.

Situated on the southern banks of the delta where the Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers meet and flow into the San Francisco Bay, Dow Chemical Company established this wetlands area in 1989, apparently to prevent competitive development near their chemical facility. Today the area is known as the Corteva Wetlands Preserve, though many locals still call it the Dow Wetlands.
ibr> The preserve is home to both freshwater ponds and brackish tidal marshes, home to beavers and otters, and visited many bird species and along this stretch of the Pacific Flyway migration route.

The trails are relatively flat dirt paths suitable for walking and easy cycling, but there's only one single point of access by the Antioch City fishing pier at the preserve's eastern extremes, and there's no established loop trails to explore either the beaver pond to the south, or the delta views to the north.

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⬤ 3★ Antioch Wetlands Preserve 1.1 mi part-loop, easy, gain 20 ft
⬤ 3★ Inland Spur + 1.1 mi out & back, easy, gain 20 ft
⬤ 2★ Delta Spur + 0.7 mi out & back, easy, gain 0 ft
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P Free parking

We've identified the two spur trails off the main trail backbone. The inland spur leading over the busy railroad tracks to a freshwater beaver pond provides additional pleasant scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities. This spur is well defined, but note that apparent trails leading beyond the route we've plotted do not loop back to the main trail and are cut off by the railroad tracks. There is also a continuous fence along the preserve's southern boundary, meaning this spur trail does not connect to nearby West 10th Street.

The second spur trail identified on our map leads north towards closer delta views. We found this short out-and-back to be overrun with mosquitos and though there are some views at the end of the trail, we were quick to turn around to avoid being lunchmeat for the incessant insect life here.

Wildflowers along the hike in from the marina.

Two viewing platforms have been constructed on the main trail, and several wooden art structures can be found around the property that look like they were built when the preserve was established in the late eighties and quickly forgotten about.

Aside from the wildlife viewing opportunties, the stand-out feature of the park is the functional windmill water pump and wooden water tank. Though the windmill fits in well with its surroundings, it was built for an entirely different purpose - as part of the Alberta, Canada movie set for Clint Eastwood's 1992 film 'Unforgiven'.

More wildflower views on our tranquil morning hike.

Views towards the San Joaquin River delta.

Looking back across the tracks from the inland spur trail.

The water pump in a scene from the movie Unforgiven (1992).

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Donner Canyon, Mount Diablo CA

2026-01-23T12:43:00.005-05:00

• 4-star hike
• 5 mile part-loop
• Moderate | Gain 1,170 feet
• Clayton, CA | San Francisco Region
.

The Falls Trail side has the best views.

We follow the wide Donner Canyon Road trail as it traces a route alongside Donner Creek, with views over open meadowland towards the massive Mount Diablo and its sub-peaks. The destination of this journey is not the mountain's summit however, but rather a looping route around the steep sides and impressive views from a canyon on the mountain's northern flanks.

Sharing the wide trail and its modest uphill gradient with occasional mountain bikers, Donner Canyon Road Trail intersects with the two narrow trails that make up the canyon loop. The jury is undecided on whether a clockwise or countercockwise direction is best for experiencing the loop that explores Donner Canyon, but what we know for sure is that the best views are on the eastern, Falls Trail side of the loop. Be sure to glance over your shoulder if you're hiking clockwise for views that combine the steep-sided canyon and distant delta flatland landscapes.

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⬤ 4★ Donner Canyon Loop 5.4 mi part-loop, moderate, gain 1,170 ft
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P Free parking

Several streams cascade down the sides of the canyon, across the trails, and towards Donner Creek. These modest waterfalls provide some pleasant views as we hiked around the loop, though we wouldn't regard them as a destination in and of themselves.

Our proposed route begins at the end of Mountaire Parkway - a residential street that, for the moment at least, has fewer parking restrictions than others in the neighborhood. Please obey posted signs and act respectfully around the neighborhood homes to preserve this parking opportunity. Further parking options are also available closer to Marsh Creek Road where you can find the continuation of the creekside trail, though this will require a little extra hiking.

Wildflowers on the Donner Canyon Road trail.

Welcome shade on the wide Donner Canyon Road trail.

One of several small falls | Distant delta views.

Varied canyon wildlife.

A grand oak blocks a lowering late afternoon sun.

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Mount Diablo, Contra Costa CA

2026-01-23T12:39:00.001-05:00

• 4-star hikes
• 8 to 11 mile options
• Moderate & Hard | Gain 2,280 to 3,390 feet
• Clayton, CA | San Francisco Region
.

The Mount Diablo Summit Museum on the mountain's peak.

The morning fog blankets the valley below as we ascend, leaving behind the shrouded cities and emerging into brilliant sunshine. This phenomenon perfectly illustrates exactly why Mount Diablo remains a popular destination for Bay Area hikers seeking clarity above the clouds. As the tallest peak visible from San Francisco when low clouds settle over the bay, Mount Diablo offers a reliable escape to sunshine and panoramic views.

The Visitor Center and Museum at Mount Diablo's summit offer refreshments including drinks and ice creams for all visitors, whether they choose to drive to the summit or arrive on foot. The building itself encloses the true summit of Mount Diablo, so be sure to visit the interior if you want to stand on the mountain's highest point.

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⬤ 4★ From Rock City 7.8 mi out & back, moderate, gain 2,280 ft
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⬤ 4★ From Sunset Trailhead 4.5 mi out & back, moderate, gain 1,580 ft
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⬤ 4★ Mt Diablo & North Peak from Rock City 11.3 mi out & back, hard, gain 3,390 ft
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$ State Park fee

We particularly like this trail in spring, when wildflowers are in full bloom and the weather is temperate. The East Bay's characteristic golden hills transform with patches of purple lupine, orange poppies, and yellow buttercups during this season. As with many East Bay hikes, this trail is best avoided during peak summer temperatures, when the exposed route can become uncomfortably hot.

⬤ From Rock City
The Summit Trail from Rock City starts near the Mount Diablo State Park Boundary at around 1,600 feet of elevation. The trail begins as a service road, eventually becoming a narrow single-track as it gets closer to the summit, but surface conditions remain easy throughout. A modest gradient spread over several miles makes the climb feel moderate at worst.

⬤ From Sunset Trailhead
For those looking for a shorter hike, drive further up Summit Road to the Sunset Trailhead, where you may find a parking spot you could start your hike of the Summit Trail from a higher elevation. Although this shortens the Summit Trail, you still benefit from its best features.

Heading up on the fire road, with little shade.

⬤ Mt Diablo & North Peak from Rock City
Upon sighting the impressive mass of North Peak from the summit of Mount Diablo we decided we had to add it to our hike, and we're glad we did. Our spring hike from the Devil's Elbow trailhead towards North Peak was where we found the best displays of wildflowers by far. Note that the final part of the ascent on North Peak Road is rather steep - we found it harder to come down than go up - so we've categorized this as hard. We recommend high-friction footwear that you trust and a little patience, if you want to hike this peak.

If you would like to hike the trail to North Peak without also hiking the Summit Trail to Mount Diablo, you can park in any allowable space on the side of the road at Devil's Elbow. Expect a 3.5 mile round-trip and 1,100 feet of elevation gain.

The trail narrows, but the views widen as you ascend.

We always advise bringing more water than you think you might need. However, the Summit Trail offers water facilities at two points: along the Sunset Trail and at the summit itself, assuming they are in working condition. Note that in addition to a drinking fountain at the summit, there is also a much better spigot to the left of the entrance to the visitor center, located behind a bench.

Though Mount Diablo State Park advertises an 8:00 AM opening time, the South Gate Road entrance has been known to open early to reduce morning traffic congestion. This can be advantageous for those hoping to start their hike before the day heats up.

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North Peak viewed to the East, from Diablo's summit.

The best wildflower display was on the North Peak trail.

Radio Towers atop North Peak.

Another view from the Summit Trail.

External Links:
Mt Diablo State Park

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Sturtevant Falls, Arcadia CA

2026-01-16T09:00:00.000-05:00

• 4-star hikes
• 3 to 4 mile options
• Easy & Moderate | Gain 690 to 810 feet
• Arcadia, CA | Los Angeles Region
.

Sturtevant falls on a spring morning.

Sturtevant Falls offers one of the most accessible waterfall hikes in the San Gabriel Mountains, combining natural beauty with historical interest. This popular destination provides an engaging hiking experience suitable for visitors of most ability levels.

The trail begins at the Chantry Flats trailhead, descending into Santa Anita Canyon and following Big Santa Anita Creek gradually uphill to the waterfall. The canyon's remarkably steep sides and mountain peak views make for a dramatic backdrop throughout the hike.

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⬤ 4★ Out-And-Back 3.3 mi out & back, easy, gain 690 ft
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⬤ 4★ Part-Loop 3.9 mi part loop, moderate, gain 810 ft
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$ Adventure Pass [info]

The main out-and-back trail is mostly easy, with an initial descent down a wide gravel service road that eventually narrows into a double-track pedestrian trail. The only creek crossing is features a rudimentary wooden trail bridge, and the only rocky section of trail can be found as you approach the waterfall itself. This accessibility makes the route popular with families and casual hikers looking for an easier experience.

For those seeking more variety, the part-loop option via the Upper Winter Trail switchbacks downward to the creek along a single track trail, offering a more secluded hiking experience. This route includes several creek crossings that may be difficult during periods of high water flow. This variation on the out-and-back route adds some fun challenges while avoiding a section of the busier main trail.

Main trail, midway along the hike.

The waterfall itself drops about 50 feet into a clear pool, with flow varying seasonally. Spring typically provides the highest water volume, though the falls remain active year-round except during extended drought periods.

A unique feature of this hike is encountering numerous huts and houses built around a century ago scattered throughout the canyon, in varying states of disrepair. These structures date back to the early 1900s when the area was a popular mountain retreat.

One of several weirs along the route of the creek.

Sturtevant Falls is a very popular destination, so its best to arrive early to secure parking. Plan ahead to obtain an Adventure Pass parking permit (or use the National Park Service interagency pass). While Adams Pack Station, located just above and behind the trailhead, sells both Adventure Passes and Annual Passes, availability can vary. However, they do offer a few paid parking spots on their property as an alternative to the main Chantry Flats trailhead lot.

The Adams Pack Station located near the trailhead is a destination in its own right. Established in the 1930s to serve the many cabins in the canyon, the pack station features a cafe offering food, snacks, drinks and desserts which are best enjoyed on their shaded, outdoor deck. There's even a donkey train service that can deliver your belongings and meals for those staying in cabins of the rustic 1893 Sturtevant Camp.

The shell of an abandoned trailside cabin.

More views at the waterfall

The narrow single-track Upper Winter Trail on the part-loop.

Adams Pack Station is worth checking out.

External Links:
• Adams Pack Station
• Sturtevant Camp

Trailspotting Nearby
5★ Echo Mountain (5 mi)
4★ Eaton Canyon Falls (3-4 mi)
5★ Hollywood Sign (3-6 mi)
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East Indio Badlands, Indio CA

2026-01-09T09:00:00.026-05:00

• 5-star hike
• 5 mile loop
• Moderate | Gain 760 feet
• Indio, CA | Southwest US
.

Heading counter-clockwise, it's 1.6 miles to the rocky foothills.

The East Indio Hills Badlands sit at the edge of California’s Coachella Valley, where tectonic forces along the San Andreas Fault have uplifted and eroded ancient sediments into a maze of miniature canyons and ridges just minutes from suburban Indio.

Layers of mudstone, siltstone, and sandstone reveal millions of years of ancient lake beds that once filled this valley. Erosion has sculpted these soft sediments into fluted ridges, hoodoos, and sharp-edged gullies that change character with the light. The curious will find much to marvel at here, and those with an interest in geology are likely to have a literal field day.

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⬤ 4★ East Indio Hills Badlands Trail 5.0 mi loop, moderate, gain 760 ft
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P Free parking

The five-mile loop begins at the Coachella Canal, where a bridge provides the only crossing point. From there, the trail traverses low sand dunes before reaching a junction that’s easy to miss. Watch for the right turn toward a flat sandy playa that leads into the East Indio Hills.

We hiked counterclockwise, which saved the most interesting geological features for the second half. After taking another right turn and walking parallel to the power lines, you then turn left into the Badlands. Sandy beds continue for a while as rocky outcroppings rise gradually around you. Soon the eastern side of the looping trail begins to climb the rocky hilltops. Views from the top of the East Indio Hills stretch in all directions, providing vistas not only over the curious geology of the Badlands but also beyond, with San Jacinto to the west and, to the north, more distant mountains that mark the boundary with Joshua Tree National Park.

Crossing the Coachella Canal marks the start of your hike.

The western portion of the loop travels through the heart of the Badlands, where the terrain becomes noticeably rockier. Here, the trail winds through narrow valleys carved into soft sedimentary rock; passages that fall somewhere between slot canyons and open washes. A few sections require some rock scrambling and occasional squeezes between the eroded walls.

Though the route is mostly well defined, it is also easy to find yourself in the wrong canyon at times; particularly on the west side of the loop. Using an offline map, such as our own, is recommended to avoid getting off route. Free trailhead parking is available for around twenty vehicles, with additional parking available along adjacent roadways.

⚠ Heat Safety Tips: Expect full sun exposure with no shade in the badlands. Stay safe by checking the forecast and planning to avoid peak heat. Recognize danger signs and turn back when necessary. Wear lightweight, non-cotton clothing and head coverings. Use sunblock and UV lip balm. Bring more water than you think you need, along with salt and electrolyte tablets.

Outbound across dunes. Don't miss the early right turn.

Appreciate the weather-worn sandstone on your journey.

Elevated views of a dramatic faultline landscape.

Strata of the San Andreas Fault.

The trail's west side provides slots and rocky terrain.

Trailspotting Nearby:
5★ Lost Palms Oasis (7-9 mi)
4★ Palm Canyon (2-3 mi)
3★ Bump & Grind (2 mi)
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Bump & Grind, Palm Desert CA

2026-01-07T10:31:00.013-05:00

• 3-star hike
• 3 mile loop
• Moderate | Gain 760 feet
• Palm Desert, CA | Southwest US
.

Mike Schuler Trailhead starts the Bump & Grind Loop.

The Bump & Grind Trail delivers exactly on it's name with an undulating mountainside ascent which thankfully eventually leads into a gentler return journey. This 3-mile loop sits on the hillside above Palm Desert, California providing elevated views over a desert expanse which abuts dramatically against a sprawling suburbia.

Roadside parking is available behind a large commercial strip-mall adjacent to the trailhead along Painters Path Road. This area is equipped with a restroom, drinking water and - unusually - an outdoor remote-control vehicle racing track.

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⬤ 3★ Bump & Grind Trail 3.0 mi loop, moderate, gain 760 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

P Free parking

Taking the clockwise route means confronting the steepest sections immediately. The trail switchbacks up the exposed hillside, gaining just over 700 feet of elevation on dusty terrain. There's little ceremony here, just consistent climbing through desert scrub while homes, golf courses, and swimming pools sprawl below.

The contrast is stark as you find yourself breathing hard on a barren slope while watching sprinklers water emerald lawns a few hundred feet away. At least the proximity allowed us the convenience of dashing to the strip mall grocery store after this fully exposed hike, to cool off with a packet of frozen peas on the back of the neck and the swift consumption of a box of popsicles.

Attack the steepest climbs first on a clockwise route.

At the top of the main loop, a junction offers a spur to a viewpoint. This additional out-and-back tacks on another mile and 350 feet of elevation gain. The reward is an expanded panorama of the Coachella Valley, though whether it's worth the extra effort depends on your energy reserves and interest in views. Be aware that this upper section closes from February through April to protect bighorn sheep during their mating season.

The descent follows the western side of the loop, where the grade eases considerably. The trail remains exposed with minimal shade, making early morning or late afternoon the most practical choices for avoiding midday heat. Temperatures in the desert can be punishing, and there's no water available on the trail.

San Jacinto foothills one side, strip malls the other.

Switchbacks on the Bump & Grind Trail.

Racing action on the RC track next to the trailhead.

Trailspotting Nearby:
4★ Palm Canyon (2-3 mi)
4★ Tahquitz Canyon Falls (2 mi)
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Maynard Mine, Palm Springs CA

2026-01-02T09:00:00.010-05:00

• 4-star hike
• 6 mile out-and-back
• Moderate | Gain 2,310 feet
• Palm Springs, CA | Southwest US
.

Looking out from within Maynard Mine.

Maynard Mine Trail is a 6-mile round-trip route in the Indian Canyons, just south of Palm Springs. It follows an old access path to a former tungsten mine perched on the ridge between Andreas and Murray Canyons. The trailhead begins beside the popular short loop through Andreas Canyon.

From the parking area, the route heads west for a quarter mile across relatively flat terrain before climbing steeply up the ridge dividing the two canyons. The ascent passes through strikingly tilted rock formations before reaching the ridgetop, where it drops about half a mile to a narrow razorback ridge. An end-of-trail sign marks the official terminus, but the mine entrance lies roughly 200 feet farther on, just over the north edge of the ridge.

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⬤ 4★ Maynard Mine Trail 5.7 mi out & back, moderate, gain 2,310 ft
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$ Entry fee per person

Because the trail climbs 2,300 feet in full sun, an early start is strongly advised. However, the park gates open at 8am, so plan accordingly. There is no shade or water along the route, so hikers should bring more water than expected and supplement with salt or electrolyte tablets. Sunblock is essential.

The steady elevation gain rewards hikers with sweeping views across Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley. On the ascent, a seasonal waterfall in Andreas Canyon may be visible to the right of the trail when water is flowing.

Maynard Mine Trail lies within Indian Canyons, managed by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. The area is open daily from 8am to 5pm, with access limited to Fridays through Sundays from July to September. A per-person entrance fee is required at the gate. For current hours and conditions, check the official Indian Canyons website.

An early morning start to avoid heat on the climb.

Hiking through striking terrain of jagged rock formations.

Approaching the top, looking into the San Jacinto Mountain Range.

A small opening to the small Maynard Mine.

External Links:
Indian Canyons Website

Trailspotting Nearby:
4★ Andreas Canyon (1 mi)
4★ Palm Canyon (2-3 mi)
4★ South Lykken Trail (2-5 mi)
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Andreas Canyon, Palm Springs CA

2026-01-02T08:59:00.005-05:00

• 4-star hike
• 1 mile loop
• Moderate | Gain 170 feet
• Palm Springs, CA | Southwest US
.

On the narrow trail between creek and rocky outcropping.

Water flowing through Andreas Creek has carved a narrow oasis into layered sandstone, forming a striking contrast to the surrounding desert. Within this sheltered canyon, dense groves of California fan palms rise above the creek, providing cool shade for hikers exploring the short one-mile loop trail.

Hiking clockwise, the route begins with a half-mile stretch across open desert, offering wide views of the red sandstone walls of Andreas Canyon on one side and the rugged San Jacinto Mountains on the other. At the midpoint, the trail meets Andreas Creek, then follows its shaded banks back toward the start, weaving between the water and the towering canyon cliffs.

Along the creek, California fan palms, mesquite, and cottonwoods thrive, their greenery standing out vividly against the arid hillsides. Keep an eye out for morteros, which are grinding holes worn into the bedrock by generations of Cahuilla people. These were once used to process mesquite beans, palm fruits, and other native foods. The creek’s flow changes with the seasons, typically strongest from winter through late spring, while summer often brings only intermittent surface water.

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⬤ 4★ Andreas Canyon Loop 1.0 mi loop, moderate, gain 170 ft
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$ Entry fee per person

Although the loop is short, we rate it as moderate due to a few rocky steps along the exposed section. Those seeking an easier start might prefer hiking counter-clockwise, following the shaded creekside first and deciding later whether to complete the loop or turn back. Trail conditions vary from packed sand to uneven rock.

The trail lies within Indian Canyons, managed by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. The area is open daily from 8am to 5pm, though from July through September access is limited to Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. A per-person entrance fee is collected at the gate. For the latest details, visit the official link at the bottom of this page.

Andreas Canyon from Maynard Mine Trail.

A clockwise loop begins with open desert expanses.

Plenty to appreciate on this short trail.

Andreas Creek creates a lush oasis.

External Links:
Indian Canyons Website

Trailspotting Nearby:
4★ Palm Canyon (2-3 mi)
4★ Maynard Mine (6 mi)
4★ South Lykken Trail (2-5 mi)
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Palm Canyon, Palm Springs CA

2026-01-02T08:56:00.008-05:00

• 5-star hikes
• 2 to 3 mile options
• Easy | Gain 220 to 370 feet
• Palm Springs, CA | Southwest US
.

Entering Palm Canyon on the out-and-back route.

Palm Canyon sits in the folds of the San Jacinto Mountains, where thousands of California fan palms cluster along a drainage that holds water when much of the surrounding desert does not.

Two routes lead to the canyon from the Trading Post trailhead. The shorter approach follows the Palm Canyon Trail directly into the canyon bottom, remaining shaded beneath the palms. The alternative route forms a 2.7-mile loop, beginning with the Victor Trail, which climbs over rocky terrain to a ridge offering exposed but elevated canyon views before descending to join Palm Canyon Trail for the return.

Water is not constant in Palm Canyon. The creek often runs dry for extended periods, particularly from late spring through fall. During winter and early spring, following rain, water flows through sections of the drainage. If hiking during wet months, expect possible water crossings, particularly near the start of the Victor Trail.

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⬤ 4★ Palm Canyon 2.0 mi out & back, easy, gain 220 ft
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⬤ 4★ Palm Canyon & Victor Loop 2.7 mi loop, easy, gain 370 ft
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$ Entry fee per person

A side trip to West Fork Falls shouldn't be overlooked, as it lies only a short distance from the trailhead at the Trading Post parking area. The falls flow more consistently than the main canyon, fed by springs in the upper drainage, and are best viewed from December through March.

The trail lies within Indian Canyons, managed by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. The area is open daily from 8am to 5pm, though from July through September access is limited to Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. A per-person entrance fee is collected at the gate. For the latest details, visit the official link at the bottom of this page.

The fun Victor Trail sports elevated canyon views.

Looking into Palm Canyon from the trailhead.

External Links:
Indian Canyons Website

Trailspotting Nearby:
4★ Andreas Canyon (1 mi)
4★ Maynard Mine (6 mi)
4★ Tahquitz Canyon Falls (2 mi)
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Mulgrave Castle, North Yorkshire UK

2025-12-25T22:24:00.022-05:00

• 4-star hikes
• 3 to 4 mile options
• Easy | Gain 110-150m (350-500ft)
• Sandsend, UK | North Yorkshire
.

The ruins of the 12th century Mulgrave Castle.

Built in the early 11th century as a defensive residence, Mulgrave Castle was constructed on a narrow ridgeline above the small coastal town of Sandsend, just north of Whitby. Likely built by a Norman landowner with royal connections, the castle's strategic position, surrounded by high curtain walls and protected by a dry moat, reflected its builder's wealth and status. Though declared 'ruinous' by 1308, the castle underwent significant modifications during the late 14th and 15th centuries, transforming it into a comfortable fortified residence that would serve the Mulgrave Estate for centuries to come.

Now in ruins, a larger Mulgrave Castle was built nearby and continues to be a private residence today. Thankfully, the estate owners of allow public access to Mulgrave Woods and the castle site, though public access is limited to dawn to dusk on Wednesdays and weekends only - and there's no public access during the month of May.

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⬤ 4★ Circular Route 3.9 mi loop, easy, gain 150m (500ft)
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⬤ 3★ Out and Back 3.2 mi out & back, easy, gain 110m (350ft)
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$ Paid parking ! Limited access (see article)

There are two hiking options to reach the ruined castle, both of which begin at the East Row parking area that we've marked on our map as 'Trailhead & Parking'. Other paid parking is available in Sandsend and marked on our map, though it's likely that the East Row parking offers the lowest fees. Some free parking spaces may also be available close to the public toilets located at the east side of the town.

The circular hike is our recommended route. The out-and-back trip along East Row Beck is shorter and has less elevation gain, but it offers few of views and features that can be found on the circular route.

We've categorized both of these trails as easy, but with the caveat that there's some modest paved hill-climbing on both routes Additionally, the circular route includes a brief section of road with less than ideal pedestrian accommodations.

Golden sands stretch 2½ miles from Whitby to Sandsend.

On the circular hike, begin by following the paved pedestrian seawall route and continue on the narrow roadside footpath up Lythe Bank. Within a short distance you may be alarmed to see the path disappear at the moment you reach a sharp bend in the road. We recommend continuing along the road - preferably walking in the middle of the road to see and be seen by oncoming road traffic. Thankfully the path resumes after this bend, and there are no other such close encounters with road vehicles. Be sure to glance back over your shoulder for sweeping coastal views toward the famous seaside town of Whitby, crowned unmistakably by its clifftop abbey.

Enter the Mulgrave Estate by crossing the road by the former gatehouse, and follow the road that bifuractes the expanse of grassland leading toward the current estate residence. Take a left turn when you reach the 'private property' signs and head into Mulgrave Woods. The rest of the trail is under tree cover, and almost entirely downhill.

After emerging from a brick-lined tunnel, turn right, then take another right up the embankment steps for your first glimpse of the Mulgrave Castle ruins. Follow the path around the tall stone retaining wall to reach the entrance to the castle and its grounds. To complete the loop and return to the trailhead, descend along the wide unpaved roads that wind gently downhill.

Looking towards Whitby on the hike up Lythe Bank.

Crossing from Lythe Bank into the Mulgrave Estate.

Sheep grazing on the lawns of Mulgrave Estate.

Forested trails eventually tunnel through an embankment.

Another perspective on the Norman Mulgrave Castle.

Cottages along Sandsend Beck.

External Links:
Mulgrave Castle on Wikipedia
Mulgrave Estate Website

Trailspotting Nearby:
4★ Egton Bridge & Glaisdale (5 mi)
4★ Goathland to Grosmont (3-8 mi)
4★ Blakey Topping (3-10 mi)
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White Horse, North York Moors UK

2025-12-25T22:24:00.021-05:00

• 4-star hikes
• 2 to 3 mile options
• Easy & Moderate | Gain 60-200m (200-650ft)
• Thirsk, UK | North Yorkshire
.

White Horse views from nearby Kilburn village.

The Kilburn White Horse stretches almost 100 metres across the hillside beneath Sutton Bank, carved in 1857 by schoolmaster John Hodgson and his students from Kilburn village. Unlike England's ancient chalk horses, this feature requires regular applications of limewash to maintain visibility against the dark limestone. Over the generations, the figure has undergone several restorations, most recently receiving a concrete base to reduce weathering.

Our hike from Sutton Bank Centre follows the Cleveland Way along an easy and mostly flat clifftop trail, providing excellent views of the cliff face of Sutton Bank and the green countryside stretching to the horizon. The Yorkshire Gliding Club operates adjacent to the trail, and gliders are frequently launched into the blue from this location, circling the thermals and updrafts from the terrain and occasionally buzzing hikers below as they come in for an almost silent landing.

Trail Options Expand KMZ · Google Earth ·

⬤ 4★ Long Part-Loop 3.4 mi part-loop, moderate, gain 200m (650ft)
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions* GPX?

⬤ 4★ Kilburn Loop 1.6 mi loop, moderate, gain 120m (400ft)
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions*

⬤ 4★ Clifftop Route 3.1 mi out & back, easy, gain 60m (200ft)
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions*

$ *Paid parking P **Free parking

** Some free parking is available nearby on the top of of the hill at Low Town Bank Road, on both sides of the road. A connecting trail links the parking area with the White Horse trails. Driving Directions to free parking.

Stepping out on the easy clifftop trail from Sutton Bank.

The clifftop trail ends at the top of the White Horse. Viewing the figure from the clifftop trail proves difficult due to the angle and proximity, but a set of steps to the east of the trail leads down to a parking area with a slightly better view. Even this vantage point is too close for a proper perspective on the White Horse, which is best viewed from a distance, such as in the neighboring village of Kilburn, a mile away across the valley floor.

A clockwise loop extends the hike by adding a 1.5-mile section through woodland beneath the escarpment. This lower path connects to the clifftop trail via two sets of steps, creating a circuit of approximately 5 miles. The clockwise direction allows for an easier ascent on the return.

Sutton Bank Centre offers restrooms, a café, information boards, and parking facilities. The site serves as a trailhead for multiple hiking and mountain biking routes, including the Cleveland Way long-distance path, which continues for 109 miles to the coast.

Views of Sutton Bank with countryside stretching beyond.

The clifftop trail follows the edges of the glider club.

Glider gets a cable tow into the sky.

Sutton Bank Centre, the start for hiking and MTB adventures.

External Links:
• Sutton Bank Centre website
• Kilburn White Horse on Wikipedia

Trailspotting Nearby:
5★ York City Walls (3 mi)
4★ Black Hambleton (8 mi)
4★ Lord Stones (3-4 mi)
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High View Loop, Joshua Tree CA

2025-12-18T09:18:00.065-05:00

• 4-star hike
• 1.4 mile loop
• Easy | Gain 340 feet
• Yucca Valley, CA | Joshua Tree
.

Varied terrain and vegetation in Joshua Tree's NW corner.

Located next to the Black Rock Campground within the northwestern boundary of Joshua Tree National Park, this picturesque loop combines the High View Nature Trail with a section of the West Side Loop Trail to showcase a variety of desert scenery and leads to some spectacular views.

Expect a mostly easy hike on this dusty desert trail route. Even the climb up to the High View Point is relatively easy, thanks to the trail builders' evenly spaced steps carved into the hillside. You could also reach this view on an out-and-back route, but our preferred looping route is roughly equal in terms of mileage and elevation gain and provides more variety.

This northwest corner of Joshua Tree National Park sits at a higher elevation than the main visitor areas along Park Boulevard, resulting in cooler temperatures, a wider variety of flora and less populated trails.

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⬤ 4★ High View Loop 1.4 mi loop, easy, gain 340 ft
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$ NPS entrance fee

As this trail is located within Joshua Tree National Park, a valid entrance pass is required to visit. The nearest place to purchase a park pass is the Black Rock Nature Center located within the campground. Other sources may claim that a park pass is not required at this location, but that's a technicality based on observations that the pass apparently doesn't need to be displayed in vehicles at this trailhead, and rangers do not request to see your pass on the trail.

⚠ Heat Safety Tips: Expect full sun exposure with minimal shade in this terrain. Stay safe by checking the forecast and planning to avoid peak heat. Recognize danger signs and turn back when necessary. Wear lightweight, non-cotton clothing and head coverings. Use sunblock and UV lip balm. Bring more water than you think you need, along with salt and electrolyte tablets.

Hikers on the mostly easy loop trail.

Stairs built into the hillside make the climb a breeze to handle.

Parched desert and snowy mountains seen on the High View Loop.

Plenty of fauna to identify along the trail.

More spacious Joshua Tree park views.

External Links:
High View Trailhead at NPS Website

Trailspotting Nearby:
5★ Panorama Loop (7-8 mi)
5★ Wall Street Mill (2 mi)
4★ Ryan Mountain (3 mi)
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Panorama Loop, Joshua Tree CA

2025-12-18T09:18:00.064-05:00

• 5-star hikes
• 7 to 8 mile options
• Moderate | Gain 1,200 to 1,700 feet
• Yucca Valley, CA | Joshua Tree
.

Varied hiking through deserts and up mountains on Panorama Loop.

The path climbs from desert campground to mountain ridge, threading through narrow canyons and vegetation zones that shift with elevation. This loop, just within the northwestern boundary of Joshua Tree National Park, combines flat Joshua tree woodland, canyon narrows, ridgeline traverses, and mountainous peaks rising beyond the arid landscape.

The hike begins at the entrance to Black Rock Canyon Campground. The initial section follows an almost unnoticeable uphill grade along a desert path heading southwest. Occasional shallow sandy patches on the trail pose no real obstacle.

The trail passes through dense Joshua tree groves while low mountains frame the surrounding landscape before reaching the Panorama Loop junction after 1.9 miles. Taking the loop clockwise leads through Black Rock Canyon, where rock formations line the narrow canyon walls.

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⬤ 5★ Panorama Loop 6.6 mi part-loop, moderate, gain 1,200 ft
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⬤ 5★ Panorama Loop & Warren Point 8.0 mi part-loop, moderate, gain 1,700 ft
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$ NPS entrance fee

The Panorama Loop trail gradually climbs through transitional vegetation zones where Joshua trees give way to pinyon pines and junipers. A set of switchbacks along a narrow, rocky ridge marks the most significant climb of the route, though it remains manageable for hikers of almost any fitness level.

The trail reaches its highest point at Panorama Peak (5,195 ft) and continues along the ridgeline. The massive San Bernardino Mountains reveal themselves to the west, sometimes snow-capped, while views stretch across the broad valley to the northeast. This exposed ridge section contrasts the arid desert terrain with distant mountain ranges, particularly San Gorgonio Mountain and Mount San Jacinto.

The descent from the ridge features rocky switchbacks into another valley where pine trees and oaks provide intermittent shade. Joshua trees become more prevalent again as the trail drops back toward Black Rock Canyon, closing the loop before retracing the initial stretch to the trailhead. A side trip to Warren Peak provides an additional opportunity for peakbaggers, offering even more expansive panoramic views.

A mile along the flat Black Rock Canyon Trail.

This northwest corner of Joshua Tree National Park sits at a higher elevation than the main visitor areas along Park Boulevard, resulting in cooler temperatures, a wider variety of flora and less populated trails.

As this trail is located within Joshua Tree National Park, a valid entrance pass is required to visit. The nearest place to purchase a park pass is the Black Rock Nature Center located within the campground. Other sources may claim that a park pass is not required at this location, but that's a technicality based on observations that the pass apparently doesn't need to be displayed in vehicles at this trailhead, and rangers do not request to see your pass on the trail.

⚠ Heat Safety Tips: Expect full sun exposure with minimal shade in this terrain. Stay safe by checking the forecast and planning to avoid peak heat. Recognize danger signs and turn back when necessary. Wear lightweight, non-cotton clothing and head coverings. Use sunblock and UV lip balm. Bring more water than you think you need, along with salt and electrolyte tablets.

One of many of the route's signature Joshua Trees.

Shallow canyon heading clockwise on Panorama Loop.

Views as the loop gently climbs into the mountains.

A summit register on top of Panorama Peak.

San Jacinto Mt and the wind turbines on the playa below.

Add 1.4 miles and 500 feet to bag Warren Point.

External Links:
Panorama Loop on NPS website

Trailspotting Nearby:
4★ High View Loop (1 mi)
4★ Fortynine Palms Oasis (3 mi)
4★ Heart Rock & ArchRock (2 mi)
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Lost Palms Oasis, Joshua Tree CA

2025-12-12T09:00:00.026-05:00

• 5-star hikes
• 7 to 9 mile options
• Moderate | Gain 1,030 to 1,230 feet
• Twentynine Palms, CA | Joshua Tree
.

The out-and-back trip along the Lost Palms Oasis Trail leads through open desert terrain to a spectacular canyon overlook and continues with a downhill scramble to a secluded, sheltered oasis of tall green palm trees and abundant spiky yucca plants. An optional side trip to Mastodon Peak along with a visit to a mine site is also available on the return journey.

Starting from the Cottonwood Spring Trailhead, the route heads southeast with a generally straight trajectory. The path deviates around rock formations and follows a wash where historic drainage patterns dictate its course. The terrain provides unobstructed views across desert scrubland. Creosote bush, ocotillo, and cholla cactus populate the landscape. Wildlife appearances are sporadic—quail may scurry across your path, and you might spot lizards on rocks during warmer hours.

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⬤ 5★ Lost Palms Oasis Trail 7.4 mi out & back, moderate, gain 1030 ft
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⬤ 5★ Lost Palms Oasis & Mastodon Peak 8.5 mi part-loop, moderate, gain 1230 ft
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$ NPS entrance fee

The Lost Palms Oasis Trail ends with spectacular views down into rocky Munsen Canyon, with distant mountains framing the horizon. Reaching Lost Palms Oasis requires continuing beyond the formal trail on a looping route that involves scrambling down and back up rocky, loose terrain. We went counter-clockwise, but it is likely no more difficult in the other direction.

If you're in the mood to extend your hike on your return leg, consider taking a right fork up the Mastodon Peak Trail. This adds an additional mile and about 200 more feet of elevation but offers broad views from a quick summit scramble and an opportunity to visit a mine site as you loop back to the trailhead.

⚠ Heat Safety Tips: Shade is extremely limited on this trail. Stay safe in hot weather by knowing the forecast and planning to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Recognize danger signs and turn back when necessary. Wear lightweight, non-cotton clothing and head coverings. Use sunblock and UV lip balm. Bring more water than you think you need, coupled with salt and electrolyte tablets.

Hitting the trail early to beat the heat.

Expect a varied trail, with a scramble to reach the oasis.

Spring colors in Joshua Tree National Park.

Add an extra mile and explore Mastodon Peak on your return.

External Links:
Lost Palms Oasis at NPS website

Trailspotting Nearby:
4★ Mastodon Peak (3 mi)
4★ Arch Rock & Heart Rock (2 mi)
4★ Ryan Mountain (3 mi)
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Mastodon Peak, Joshua Tree CA

2025-12-12T08:59:00.012-05:00

• 4-star hike
• 3 mile loop
• Moderate | Gain 410 feet
• Twentynine Palms, CA | Joshua Tree
.

Age is not a barrier to some hiking Mastodon Peak.

Desert scrubland, summit views stretching to the Salton Sea, and mine ruins perched on a ridgeline. The Mastodon Peak Loop delivers these elements across a short 2.6-mile trail in Joshua Tree's southern region.

The route begins at the Cottonwood Spring Trailhead, where hikers head counter-clockwise along the Lost Palms Oasis Trail through flat desert scrubland. Creosote bush, ocotillo, and cholla cactus populate the landscape as the hard-packed trail ascends gradually eastward for 0.7 miles to the first junction.

Turning left onto the Mastodon Peak Trail, the route transitions from open terrain into bouldered sections characteristic of the park. The climb up Mastodon Peak's flank proves manageable due to occasional steps carved directly into the sandstone. Combined with some switchbacks, the trail to the saddle is more accessible than it may first appear.

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⬤ 4★ Mastodon Peak Loop 2.5 mi loop, moderate, gain 410 ft
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$ NPS entrance fee

Mastodon Peak's flat saddle provides hikers with expansive views across the southern portions of Joshua Tree National Park. The Eagle Mountains rise to the east, the Cottonwood Mountains stretch to the west, and on clear days, the Salton Sea appears to the south. Those who continue to the summit follow a short spur trail that requires a modest amount of rock scrambling. Early explorers apparently named the formation for its resemblance to a mastodon's head and trunk, though it can be difficult to see the likeness today.

Just past the summit junction, the loop trail passes the remains of Mastodon Mine. This gold mine was originally established in the 1930s, though like most of the many abandoned mines in the park, it never achieved any real commercial success. The main shaft descends 45 feet along three parallel quartz veins, but the shaft is unfortunately out of reach to visitors due to safety concerns.

The short climb follows a flat section through the valley floor.

The return portion of the loop descends west through a series of desert washes. These sandy sections are easier downhill than up, making the counter-clockwise direction the more practical choice. The trail crosses and follows multiple drainages, with occasional markers guiding hikers through wash crossings. Near the end of the trail, non-native eucalyptus trees mark the remains of the former Winona Mill site, which processed ore during the 1930s and 1940s. A final stretch of trail parallels Cottonwood Spring Road back to the trailhead.

⚠ Heat Safety Tips: Shade is extremely limited on this trail. Stay safe in hot weather by knowing the forecast and planning to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Recognize danger signs and turn back when necessary. Wear lightweight, non-cotton clothing and head coverings. Use sunblock and UV lip balm. Bring more water than you think you need, coupled with salt and electrolyte tablets.

Contemplating views from the summit of Mastodon Peak.

Mastodon Mine, beyond the peak on a counter-clockwise circuit.

Does this peak look like a mastodon to you?

External Links:
Mastodon Peak at NPS website

Trailspotting Nearby:
5★ Lost Palms Oasis (7-9 mi)
4★ Arch Rock & Heart Rock (2 mi)
5★ Split Rock (2 mi)
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