01
Best overall pick
Calaveras Big Trees State Park
Highway 4 Near Arnold • Giant Sequoia State Park • Iconic Big-Tree Experience
Classic, well-marked loops through groves of enormous sequoias with options for everything from stroller-friendly walks to longer half-day hikes.
Roughly 30 minutes up Highway 4 from Murphys, Calaveras Big Trees is the spot locals send anyone who has never walked beneath a sequoia. The North Grove loop is an easy, mostly level introduction, while the South Grove and other side trails offer a quieter, more immersive forest hike. Go early on summer weekends for cooler temps and easier parking.
02
Best for big views
Arnold Rim Trail
Arnold High Country Above Murphys • Rugged Forest Ridge Trail System • Best For Strong Hikers Chasing Vistas
A network of out-and-back and point-to-point options along a forested rim with sweeping views toward the high Sierra.
About 25 minutes from Murphys, the Arnold Rim Trail feels wilder than its proximity to town suggests. Popular segments to spots like Cougar Rock and Top of the World combine steady climbing with payoff views over canyons and distant granite. Start early, bring plenty of water, and download a trail map if you plan to link sections together.
03
Best summer river escape
Natural Bridges Trail
Parrotts Ferry Road Between Murphys And Vallecito • Shaded River Canyon And Limestone Cave Hike • Best For Creek Time And Swimming Holes
A short but steep trail that drops to Coyote Creek, where the water has carved a cool limestone tunnel and emerald pools.
This local favorite is just a quick drive down Parrotts Ferry Road from Murphys, but it feels a world away once you reach the canyon bottom. The hike is straightforward going down and a solid workout coming back up, so plan extra time if you want to swim or float through the natural rock arch. Summer afternoons can be hot on the climb out, so many locals aim for morning or early evening visits.
04
Best off-season foothill hike
New Melones Lake – Glory Hole Area Trails
Near Angels Camp, South Of Murphys • Rolling Oak Woodland And Lakeview Paths • Best For Mild-Weather Mileage
Gentle to moderately rolling trails that wind through golden foothills and oak savanna above the coves of New Melones Lake.
When it is chilly or snowy higher up Highway 4, locals often head toward New Melones for lower-elevation sunshine. Trails from the Glory Hole side offer broad views over the reservoir, spring wildflowers, and plenty of room to stretch your legs without committing to a big climb. It is exposed in summer, so this spot really shines in fall, winter, and early spring.
05
Best easy family walk
White Pines Lake & Sierra Logging Museum Trails
Edge Of Arnold, Above Murphys • Quiet Lakeside Path And Forest Loop • Best For Kids And Casual Strollers
Relaxed shoreline paths and short forest loops around a small reservoir, picnic areas, and a low-key logging museum.
Just past Arnold, White Pines Lake is a mellow alternative to bigger hikes and a nice spot to unwind after a morning in Murphys. A mostly flat path traces the lake edge, with a few side trails ducking into the pines, making it easy to tailor the outing to young kids or mixed-ability groups. Pack a picnic and wander through the outdoor exhibits at the logging museum to round out the visit.