01
Best in-town stroll
Packwood Creek Trail via Tulare
Tulare – Packwood Creek Greenbelt • Paved Creekside Walking And Biking Path • Closest Option To East Tulare Villa
A flat, easy path that follows Packwood Creek through town, ideal for a quick stretch of the legs without leaving Tulare.
This greenbelt-style trail lets you walk or bike right along Packwood Creek on mostly level, paved surfaces, with neighborhood access points and open views. It’s a convenient choice when you want fresh air and movement but don’t have time to drive to the foothills. Go early or near sunset for cooler temperatures and softer light on the water.
02
Best shaded river walk
St. John's River Trail
Visalia – Between Cutler Park And Riverway Sports Park • Shaded Multi-Use River Trail • Best For Easy After-Work Walks
A tree-lined path tracing the St. John’s River, with enough mileage for a relaxed walk, jog, or family bike ride.
Starting near Cutler Park, this trail follows the river past cottonwoods and sycamores, offering pockets of shade and birdlife along the way. The gentle grades make it approachable for kids and casual walkers, but you can extend your outing by connecting segments toward Riverway Sports Park. It’s a good choice when you want a greener feel than town sidewalks without committing to a mountain drive.
03
Must-do big-tree walk
General Sherman Tree Trail
Sequoia National Park – Giant Forest • Short Forest Walk Among Giant Sequoias • Iconic First-Timer Experience
A brief but memorable walk that brings you face to face with the world-famous General Sherman, surrounded by towering sequoias.
From the parking area, a paved path drops through the Giant Forest to the colossal General Sherman Tree, with side viewpoints and interpretive signs along the way. The distance is short, but the climb back up can feel brisk at elevation, so allow time to take it slowly. Combine this with nearby loops in the Giant Forest if you want to turn a quick stop into a half-day of big-tree wandering.
04
Best waterfall hike
Tokopah Falls Trail
Sequoia National Park – Lodgepole And Tokopah Valley • Granite Canyon And Waterfall Hike • Best Spring And Early-Summer Pick
A moderate trail following the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River to a dramatic cascade tucked into a granite amphitheater.
Leaving from the Lodgepole area, the path meanders upstream through forest and open granite slabs, with constant river views and scattered boulders to explore. The grade stays manageable, making it a good step up from flat valley trails without feeling punishing. Aim for late spring or early summer when snowmelt feeds Tokopah Falls and the flow is at its most impressive.
05
Best high-country challenge
Lakes Trail to Emerald and Heather Lakes
Sequoia National Park – Wolverton Trailhead • High-Country Alpine Lake Trek • Best For Strong Hikers Seeking Views
A demanding but rewarding climb into the high Sierra, linking a series of clear alpine lakes above the forested valley.
Starting at Wolverton, this trail gains steady elevation on switchbacks before opening to big views of granite ridges and, eventually, the emerald-colored lakes themselves. The route is rocky and sustained, so it suits hikers comfortable with several hours on the move and significant climbing. On clear days, the combination of cool lake water, wildflowers, and sweeping Sierra vistas makes the effort feel more than worthwhile.