01
Best waterfall hike
Tokopah Falls Trail
Lodgepole Area, Sequoia National Park • Waterfall And Granite Canyon Hike • Best Summer Mountain Escape
A scenic out‑and‑back trail that follows a glacial creek to a towering Sierra waterfall framed by polished granite walls.
From the Lodgepole Campground area, this well‑traveled trail gently climbs along the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River, with constant water views and big boulder benches for breaks. It’s a solid choice on a warm day, since the canyon stays relatively cool and the payoff at Tokopah Falls feels dramatic without requiring mountaineer‑level effort. Aim for an early start on weekends, when parking near Lodgepole fills quickly.
02
Iconic big‑tree loop
Congress Trail & General Sherman Tree
Giant Forest, Sequoia National Park • Shaded Giant Sequoia Loop • Classic Sequoia Experience
A mellow forest loop that starts at the General Sherman Tree and winds through dense groves of towering sequoias on quiet, paved and dirt paths.
After visiting the General Sherman Tree, follow the Congress Trail into the heart of the Giant Forest for a quieter look at truly massive trees. The grade is mostly gentle, making it a good pick for mixed‑ability groups who still want to feel small beneath some of the largest living things on earth. Benches, side spurs, and clear signage make it easy to tailor the loop to how much time you have before heading back toward the valley.
03
Great for mixed groups
Trail of 100 Giants
Western Divide Highway East Of Springville • Accessible Big‑Tree Boardwalk • Best Easy Big‑Tree Stroll
A mostly level loop through an impressive sequoia grove, with boardwalk sections that make big‑tree scenery accessible to nearly everyone.
Set along the Western Divide Highway, this route strings together clusters of enormous sequoias with short side loops and photo‑worthy clearings. The walking is easy and slow‑paced, so you can bring kids, older hikers, or anyone who prefers a gentle wander to a serious climb. Combine it with a scenic drive up from the valley for a full day that still feels relaxed rather than rushed.
04
Easiest nature option
Kaweah Oaks Preserve
Between Exeter And Farmersville • Flat Oak‑Woodland Nature Preserve • Close‑To‑Town Nature Walk
A network of short, flat trails winding through shaded valley oak groves, seasonal creeks, and open grasslands just a quick drive from Strathmore.
When you don’t have time to run up into the mountains, this preserve offers an easy escape into old‑growth valley oaks and songbird habitat. Several short loops let you piece together anything from a 20‑minute stroll to a longer meander, with enough variety to feel different on each visit. It’s especially nice in the cooler months and early mornings, when wildlife is active and the light filters softly through the trees.
05
Local workout hill
Rocky Hill
Foothills Just East Of Exeter • Steep Paved And Dirt Road Climb • Quick Climb For Sunrise Or Sunset
A short but steep climb up a rural road and service tracks that rewards you with wide‑open views over the citrus belt and out to the Sierra crest.
Popular with local runners and cyclists, Rocky Hill gives you a serious leg burn in a compact outing, making it an ideal before‑work or after‑dinner hike. As you gain elevation, the view quickly opens to orchards, small towns, and snowcapped peaks on clear days. Go early or late to avoid heat and traffic, bring a headlamp if there’s any chance of finishing after dark, and use extra caution around blind curves on the road section.