01
Best city overlook
Sky Point Trail
South Ridgecrest • In-Town Desert Viewpoint Trail • Local Favorite For Big Views Close To Home
A steady climb from the edge of town to a rocky lookout with sweeping views of Ridgecrest and the surrounding ranges.
Starting from a neighborhood-side trailhead, Sky Point feels surprisingly wild once you gain the first ridge. The grade is consistent enough for a workout but never technical, making it a solid choice for intermediate hikers. Go early or near sunset for cooler temperatures and the best light on the Indian Wells Valley below.
02
Best after-work loop
Rademacher Hills Trail System
Southeast Of Ridgecrest • Desert Singletrack Network • Go-To After-Work Loop
Linked loops weave through low, scrubby hills, letting you build anything from a quick leg-stretcher to a half-day outing.
The Rademacher Hills are where locals go when they want dirt under their shoes without a long drive. Trails wind over rolling ridges and sandy washes, mixing mellow traverses with a few short, punchy climbs and rocky sections. Expect shared use with runners and mountain bikers, and pack extra water—there is essentially no shade out here.
03
Best short day trip
Fossil Falls
Along Us-395 North Of Ridgecrest • Short Volcanic Landscape Hike • Best Quick Road-Trip Stop
A family-friendly wander across black lava leads to a dramatic dry waterfall carved by the ancient Owens River.
From the small parking area, an informal path threads over knobby lava rock toward the edge of the old falls. The hike is short but uneven, and curious hikers can explore both the rim and the sculpted chasm below where it is safe. It is stark, windy, and completely exposed, so bring sun protection and keep a close eye on kids near drop-offs.
04
Most surreal scenery
Trona Pinnacles
East Toward Trona • Open Desert Landmark Ramble • Most Otherworldly Scenery
Choose-your-own-route walking among hundreds of tufa spires that feel more like a sci-fi backdrop than the high desert.
Once you bump down the graded dirt road, you can park and simply start wandering among the limestone towers. There is no set loop, so most visitors improvise, circling the bases of the pinnacles or climbing nearby ridges for wide-angle views of the Searles Valley. Plan to be fully self-sufficient—there is no shade, water, or services, and the area is best enjoyed in cooler seasons or at golden hour.
05
Best challenge hike
Owens Peak via Short Canyon
Near Indian Wells Canyon • Strenuous Mountain Canyon Route • Best Challenge Hike
A steep, rocky ascent up Short Canyon climbs from desert floor toward the high country around Owens Peak, with big views back over the valley.
This route feels far removed from town, trading creosote and sand for granite, pinyon, and seasonal wildflowers as you gain elevation. The trail is rugged in places, with significant climbing and loose footing, so it suits fit hikers who are comfortable in remote terrain. Start early, watch the weather, and carry plenty of water—once you leave the trailhead, there are no reliable sources or easy bailouts.