01
Best overall pick
Mount Pinos Summit Trail
Mount Pinos Area • High-Elevation Forest And Ridge Hike • Local Favorite For Big Views
A short, steady climb through open pines to one of Southern California’s most expansive 360-degree summit views.
Starting near Chula Vista Campground, this well-used trail gently winds through shady jeffrey pines before topping out above 8,800 feet. On clear days you can pick out the Central Valley, the Sierra Nevada far to the north, and the Channel Islands floating off the coast. It is a forgiving grade but the altitude, afternoon thunderstorms, and winter snow mean it pays to check conditions before you go.
02
Best for solitude
Lockwood Peak Trail
Lockwood Valley • Remote Backcountry Peak Route • Best For Experienced Hikers
A quieter, more rugged climb to an airy summit that feels far removed from the main Mount Pinos crowds.
Accessed from a turnout off Lockwood Valley Road, this route follows use paths and old fire lines up through chaparral and scattered pines to a rocky high point. The trail can be faint in places, with loose sections and occasional brush, so a good map and solid route-finding skills are important. In return you get far-reaching views over the valley and a real sense of backcountry seclusion.
03
Best creekside ramble
North Fork Lockwood Trail
North Fork Of Lockwood Creek • Shaded Canyon And Creek Trail • Best For A Half-Day Outing
A pleasant descent along a pine-lined canyon that trades summit views for cool air, water sounds, and quiet bends in the creek.
This trail links the high country of the Tumamait Trail with the lower BSA Camp Three Falls, dropping into the North Fork of Lockwood Creek. Expect seasonal stream crossings, stretches of welcome shade, and pockets of wildflowers in spring. It works well as an out-and-back or shuttle hike, but remember that any downhill you enjoy on the way in must be climbed back out.
04
Best family summit
Frazier Mountain Trail
Near Frazier Park • Mixed Forest And Summit Road Walk • Best For Casual Hikers And Families
A mostly road-based high-country walk that delivers easy-access summit views without an all-day effort.
A rough forest road climbs most of the way up Frazier Mountain, leaving a relatively short walk to the broad summit area and communication towers. The route lacks the wild feel of singletrack but makes up for it with sweeping views, summer breezes, and kid-friendly exploring among the pines. Check road and snow conditions in spring and winter, and bring plenty of water—services are nonexistent once you leave town.
05
Best spring wildflower hike
Wind Wolves Preserve
South Of Bakersfield • Expansive Grassland And Canyon Preserve • Best For Full-Day Exploring
A vast private preserve with well-marked trails through rolling hills, canyons, and seasonal wildflower displays.
Though a bit of a drive from Lockwood, Wind Wolves is one of the region’s standout hiking destinations, especially in a good bloom year. Trails range from easy strolls along San Emigdio Creek to longer loops that climb into open hills with big sky views and chances to spot tule elk or soaring raptors. Arrive early on spring weekends, carry plenty of water, and be prepared for sun exposure once you leave the canyon bottoms.