01
Best waterfall hike close to town
Lewis Creek National Scenic Trail (Corlieu and Red Rock Falls)
Off Highway 41 Between Oakhurst And Fish Camp • Shaded Forest Creek And Waterfall Trail • Local Favorite For Classic Sierra Scenery
A classic Sierra foothill hike that strings together cool forest, a lively creek, and two photogenic waterfalls.
Starting from pullouts along Highway 41, Lewis Creek gives you quick access to Corlieu and Red Rock Falls without an all-day commitment. The trail is rocky and rooty in places but never boring, with constant sound of the creek and plenty of side angles on the cascades. Go early on summer weekends if you want quieter views and easier parking at the small trailheads.
02
Best quiet forest loop
Miami Trail
Foothills East Of Ahwahnee • Pine And Oak Forest Singletrack • Best For Crowd-Free Rambling
A mellow network of forest trails and old roads where you’re more likely to hear woodpeckers than see other hikers.
The Miami area sits just far enough off the main highway to stay relatively uncrowded, even in peak season. Expect rolling terrain, scattered granite outcrops, and wide views toward the high country when the trees open up. It’s a good choice for hikers who enjoy linking short segments into a custom loop rather than following a single out-and-back trail.
03
Best in-town stroll
Oakhurst River Parkway
Along The Fresno River In Oakhurst • Paved And Packed-Dirt River Path • Best For Easy Walks And Bikes
A relaxed riverside path that lets you stretch your legs, birdwatch, or spin a quick bike ride without leaving town.
Winding along the Fresno River through Oakhurst, this path is a go-to for locals who want some fresh air without a long drive. Short access points from businesses and side streets make it easy to tailor the length, and benches along the way invite you to linger. It’s especially pleasant in the shoulder seasons, when the river is running and the heat hasn’t fully settled into the valley yet.
04
Best giant sequoia experience
Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
Near Yosemite’S South Entrance By Wawona • Iconic Big-Tree Trails • Must-Do Outing For First-Time Visitors
Well-marked trails weave through hundreds of ancient sequoias, from easy boardwalks to longer loops on packed dirt.
From the South Entrance, shuttle buses or a seasonal walk-in route lead you up into one of Yosemite’s most famous groves. Once there, you can choose anything from a gentle stroll on the lower boardwalk to a half-day hike that climbs into quieter upper reaches. Go early or late in the day for softer light through the canopy and a better chance of hearing just wind and birds in the trees.
05
Best high-energy Yosemite day hike
Mist Trail to Vernal Fall
Yosemite Valley • Steep Granite Stair Trail Along The Merced River • Best For Strong Hikers Chasing Big Views
A famous, steep climb beside the Merced River that rewards you with mist, thunder, and head-on views of Vernal Fall.
From the Happy Isles trailhead, the Mist Trail wastes no time gaining elevation, switching from a wide paved path to tight granite steps alongside the river. In peak runoff, expect to get sprayed as you climb past the fall, and bring traction and layers if you go early or late in the season. It’s a demanding outing compared with foothill hikes near Ahwahnee, but the payoff in classic Yosemite scenery is hard to match.