01
Iconic summit day
Mount Konocti County Park – Wright Peak Summit
Ridge South Of Lakeport Above Clear Lake • Steep Volcanic Summit Trail With Expansive Lake Vistas • Classic Local Challenge Hike
If you only have time for one big hike near Lakeport, this climb to Wright Peak on Mount Konocti is the one to do.
The main Wright Peak Summit Trail winds steadily uphill through oak and chaparral to a broad summit with sweeping views over Clear Lake, the Mayacamas, and distant Mount Shasta on clear days. Expect a sustained climb, exposure on the upper sections, and a real sense of accomplishment at the top. Start early on hot days, bring plenty of water, and plan time to linger at the fire lookout area for the best panorama.
02
Best mellow lake-and-creek loops
Clear Lake State Park – Kelsey Creek & Dorn Nature Trails
Shoreline Southwest Of Lakeport • Lakeside State Park With Shady Creekside And Oak Woodland Paths • Best For Relaxed Hikes And Picnics
Clear Lake State Park offers easy-to-moderate loops where you can mix birdy creek corridors, lake views, and picnic stops in one outing.
Stroll the Kelsey Creek and Dorn Nature Trails for gentle grades, frequent shade, and plenty of chances to spot herons, grebes, and turtles along the water. Short connectors let you turn a quick leg-stretcher into a longer wander without ever getting too far from the lake. This is an ideal choice for families, newer hikers, or anyone who wants a scenic walk without a big climb.
03
Most flexible out-and-back or loop
Highland Springs Recreation Area
Hills Between Lakeport And Kelseyville • Rolling Oak-And-Chaparral Recreation Area Around A Small Reservoir • Choose-Your-Own-Distance Trail Network
Highland Springs is where locals go for everything from quick after-work walks to long exploratory loops above the reservoir.
A web of old roads and singletrack rings the water and climbs into the surrounding hills, so you can tailor the outing to your time and energy. Expect open slopes with wide views, pockets of shade in the draws, and a friendly mix of hikers, runners, and mountain bikers. In late spring the grassy hillsides pop with wildflowers, but dust and heat build later in the summer.
04
Best quiet wildlife wander
Rodman Preserve
Countryside North Of Lakeport Off Westlake Road • Low-Key Nature Preserve With Gently Rolling Ranchland Trails • Top Pick For Birding And Easy Loops
Rodman Preserve trades big climbs for peaceful, open-country walking with good chances to see raptors and waterfowl.
Short interconnected paths wind through grassland, oaks, and views down toward the Rodman Slough area of Clear Lake. It is a great place for an unhurried sunset stroll, listening for songbirds and watching hawks work the thermals above the fields. Trails can be muddy after storms, so check conditions and be ready for seasonal closures.
05
Cooler forest escape
Boggs Mountain Demonstration State Forest
Cobb Mountain Highlands Southeast Of Lakeport • Pine-And-Fir Forest With An Extensive Signed Trail And Road System • Best Hot-Day Or Midsummer Option
When the shores of Clear Lake feel too warm, locals head up to the higher, cooler trails at Boggs Mountain.
Dozens of intersecting routes let you string together mellow fire-road rambles or more involved singletrack loops under tall conifers. The elevation and tree cover keep things noticeably cooler, and the gently undulating terrain is forgiving on knees compared with the steeper volcanic slopes closer to town. Grab a map at the trailhead kiosk or snap a photo of the main sign so you can improvise as you go.