01
Best overall pick
Walker Pass Pacific Crest Trail Section
Walker Pass Corridor West Of Onyx • High-Desert Ridge And Pct Segment • Best For Classic Pacific Crest Trail Vibes
A rolling stretch of the PCT above Walker Pass with sweeping views of the southern Sierra and desert basins.
From Walker Pass Campground, you can hop on the Pacific Crest Trail and quickly climb to open ridges with long views toward the high Sierra and Mojave. It’s easy to tailor the outing to your day, turning around at the first big overlook or pushing farther for more mileage. Expect sun, wind, and a true thru-hiker feel despite being just a short drive from Onyx.
02
Top summit outing
Lamont Peak
Kiavah Wilderness Northwest Of Onyx • Steep Granite Peak Route • Top Local Leg-Burner
A stout climb to a rocky summit with a wild, remote feel and wide-open views over the Kern River Valley.
Lamont Peak is the kind of hike locals recommend when you ask for a real workout with a payoff. The trail climbs quickly through boulders and pinyon to a rugged high point that feels far more remote than the drive suggests. Come prepared for steep, occasionally loose footing and bring plenty of water—the views from the top make it worth the effort.
03
Best easy walk
Kern River Preserve Audubon Nature Trail
Kern River Valley Near Weldon • Family-Friendly River Nature Loop • Best For Birding And Evening Strolls
A gentle loop through cottonwoods and riparian habitat along the Kern River, ideal for a low-key walk close to Onyx.
Just down the road from Onyx, the Kern River Preserve offers an easy, mostly flat trail that showcases the valley’s birdlife and river corridor. Shaded stretches, benches, and interpretive signs make it a relaxed outing for families or anyone needing a break from steep climbs. Go early or late in the day for cooler temps and your best chance at spotting wildlife.
04
Best view-with-a-drive
McIvers Road OHV Trail
Piute High Country South Of Onyx • Scenic 4X4 Road With Hiking Options • Best Mixed Driving-And-Hiking Outing
A rough but rewarding backroad to high country viewpoints where short walks lead to wide panoramas.
McIvers Road is known for off‑highway vehicles, but it also serves as a gateway to cooler air and big views above the valley. With a capable vehicle, you can drive high into the Piute Mountains, then wander short use paths out to overlooks and rock outcrops. It’s a good choice when you want some walking without committing to a long, continuous trail from town.
05
Most atmospheric canyon hike
Long Canyon Trail
Canyon Just East Of Onyx Off Highway 178 • Quiet Canyon Day Hike • Go-To Shady Half-Day Escape
A quieter drainage with a lightly traveled path that tucks you into classic southern Sierra canyon scenery.
Long Canyon is a nice change of pace when you want to leave the highway behind without a long drive. The trail follows a shallow canyon framed by granite and scattered pines, with pockets of shade that feel especially good on warm afternoons. It’s straightforward, scenic, and usually less crowded than the headline destinations, making it a solid pick for a relaxed half-day wander.