01
Best lakeside network
Clear Lake State Park
Soda Bay Shoreline • Lakeside State Park With Signed Trails • Best Overall Pick
A classic mix of shady canyon paths and open lake views just minutes from Soda Bay neighborhoods.
Start from the Dorn or Cole Creek areas to stitch together loops along the shoreline, through oak woodland, and up to small view bumps above the water. The trails are well signed, family friendly, and close enough that you can sneak in a sunset walk after dinner. In summer, go early for cooler temperatures and calmer coves.
02
Iconic summit climb
Mount Konocti County Park
South Of Soda Bay Above Kelseyville • Volcanic Summit Trail Network • Signature Peak Hike
A steady climb up Lake County’s landmark volcano with sweeping 360‑degree views over Clear Lake and beyond.
From the Wright Peak access, the main trail winds through chaparral and old orchards before topping out on open volcanic ridges. On a clear day you can see the Coast Range, Snow Mountain, and the full sweep of Clear Lake’s shoreline. Pack water, start early, and plan time at the top to explore the side trails and historic cabin sites.
03
Cool forest escape
Boggs Mountain Demonstration State Forest
Cobb Mountain Highlands • Pine Forest Roads And Singletrack Loops • Best Summer Escape
Miles of soft‑surface trails and fire roads in tall pines, a cooler option when the lakefront heats up.
Boggs feels more like the Sierra than Lake County, with shaded forest, gentle grades, and a big network of signed junctions. Hikers can choose short loops near the main parking area or longer rambles that stay quiet even on weekends. Check posted maps at the trailhead, as routes occasionally shift with ongoing forest restoration.
04
Varied loop territory
Highland Springs Recreation Area
Foothills Between Kelseyville And Lakeport • Rolling Oak And Chaparral Trail System • Best For Choose‑Your‑Own Loops
A web of multi‑use trails around a small reservoir, great for custom‑length hikes with steady lake and valley views.
Highland Springs offers everything from mellow creekside paths to steeper climbs up open ridges with big views toward Clear Lake. The unsigned network can feel like a local secret, so take a photo of the map at the trailhead and follow the main fire roads your first time out. In spring, the green hills and wildflowers make even short walks feel rewarding.
05
Best for wildlife watching
Anderson Marsh State Historic Park
Near Lower Lake At The South End Of Clear Lake • Wetland Boardwalks And Oak Savanna Trails • Top Pick For Birders And Families
Easy, mostly level paths through marsh and meadow where herons, egrets, and otters steal the show.
The main trails here link historic ranch buildings with boardwalks over tule marsh and open grassland along Cache Creek. It is a quieter, slower‑paced hike than the big summit climbs, perfect for kids, binoculars, and cooler seasons when the wildlife is most active. Morning light and still water make this one of the most photogenic walks near Soda Bay.