01
Best summit views
Mt. Konocti County Park (Wright Summit Trail)
South Of Kelseyville Above The South Shore • Volcanic Summit Day Hike • Iconic Local Climb
A steady climb up a dormant volcano to the best panoramic view of Clear Lake and the Coast Range.
The Wright Summit Trail is a long, gradual climb on a dirt road and singletrack that rewards you with a full 360-degree view from the top of Mt. Konocti. Locals use it as a workout hike, but the steady grade and clear tread make it doable for fit beginners who take their time. Go on a clear day and you can see the lake, surrounding vineyards, and distant ridgelines all in one sweeping look.
02
Best lakeside mix
Clear Lake State Park
West Shore Of Clear Lake Near Kelseyville • Lakeside And Foothill Trail Network • Most Versatile Option
Easy-to-moderate trails loop from oak-dotted hillsides down to quiet coves on the lake.
Clear Lake State Park strings together short trails that you can combine into loops, from the Indian Nature Trail to creekside paths and mellow hillside routes. It is the place to go if your group has mixed abilities, since you can peel off for a quick nature walk or extend into a longer circuit without committing to a big climb. Afternoon light over the water is especially nice, and there are plenty of spots to cool off along the shore after you hike.
03
Best mellow nature walk
Anderson Marsh State Historic Park
Near Lower Lake At The South End Of Clear Lake • Wetlands And Oak Woodland Loop • Laid-Back Birding And History Stop
Boardwalks and easy dirt paths wind through tule marsh, open meadows, and historic ranch grounds.
If you want a low-key walk with a lot of atmosphere, Anderson Marsh is where locals send visiting family. The trails are mostly flat and weave between oaks, seasonal wildflowers, and long views over the marsh where egrets, herons, and hawks are common. It also passes historic ranch buildings, so you get a mix of natural and cultural history without committing to a long day out.
04
Best forest escape
Boggs Mountain Demonstration State Forest
Near Cobb In The Highlands South Of Clear Lake • Shaded Forest Road And Singletrack Network • Best For Cooler-Weather Hiking
A maze of signed trails and roads lets you build your own loop under pines and firs high above the lake basin.
Boggs Mountain sits higher and stays cooler than the lake, which makes it a go-to on hot summer days. Fire has reshaped parts of the forest, but you still get long stretches of shade, open views from clearings, and a quiet, away-from-it-all feel. Trails are generally moderate and well signed, so you can choose anything from a short leg-stretcher to a several-hour loop without repeating the same route twice.
05
Best rugged adventure
Redbud Trail, Cache Creek Wilderness
East Of Clearlake Near Clearlake Oaks • Canyon And River Backcountry Hike • Best For Experienced Hikers
A more remote out-and-back that drops into oak-studded hills and down toward the wild corridor of Cache Creek.
The Redbud Trail feels wilder than most options around the lake, with steeper grades, exposed stretches, and big open views over the Cache Creek canyon. In season you may see tule elk on the distant hillsides, and spring wildflowers can be excellent. Carry plenty of water and start early; this is the pick for hikers who want a more committing day without driving far from Clearlake.