01
Best easy loop
Pinecrest Lake Loop
Pinecrest Lake Recreation Area • Scenic Lakeshore Loop Trail • Best For Families And Casual Walkers
A mellow shoreline loop with constant water views, plenty of benches, and easy access from town.
This roughly four-mile loop circles Pinecrest Lake on a well-worn path that mixes dirt singletrack, a bit of sand, and a few rocky sections near the dam. You get a changing panorama of water, forested slopes, and boat traffic without committing to big elevation gain. Start from the marina, walk clockwise for more morning shade on the west shore, and leave time to dip your feet or picnic at one of the little coves along the way.
02
Classic local adventure
Cleo's Bath
Above Pinecrest Lake • Granite Creek Scramble To Swimming Holes • Best For Strong Hikers Who Want A Swim
A steeper extension above Pinecrest that rewards careful hikers with cold plunge pools carved into solid granite.
From the south side of Pinecrest Lake, side trails break away from the main loop and climb along the creek toward a series of polished granite pools known as Cleo's Bath. Expect steeper grades, short scrambles, and some light route-finding as you work upstream. Go only in dry, low-water conditions, wear shoes with good grip, and be honest about everyone’s footing and comfort level around slick rock and moving water.
03
Epic day out
Relief Reservoir via Kennedy Meadows
Kennedy Meadows Along Highway 108 • Long Canyon Hike To Alpine Reservoir • Best Full-Day Adventure From Strawberry
A classic High Sierra outing that follows the river out of Kennedy Meadows into wide views and big granite country.
About half an hour east of Strawberry, the trail from Kennedy Meadows climbs gently along the Middle Fork Stanislaus River before turning up toward Relief Reservoir. The hike feels rugged and remote by the time you reach the water, with granite walls, scattered pines, and pack trains sharing the route. Start early to beat heat and afternoon storms, carry plenty of water, and plan on a solid half to full day depending on your pace and how long you linger at the reservoir’s shoreline.
04
Best roadside stop
Columns of the Giants
Near Dardanelle Along Highway 108 • Short Interpretive Geologic Walk • Quick Stretch-Your-Legs Stop On Highway 108
A brief, mostly flat walk to a dramatic wall of volcanic columns just off the highway.
North of Strawberry, a signed turnout leads to a short path along the river and up to the Columns of the Giants, where hexagonal basalt pillars rise in a striking cliff. The trail is under a mile round-trip, with good payoff for minimal effort and enough signage to give some context to what you’re seeing. It is ideal as a low-commitment stroll, a kid-friendly outing, or a scenic break on your way to or from the higher passes.
05
Best high-elevation hike
Burst Rock via Gianelli Cabin Trailhead
Emigrant Wilderness Trailhead Off Crabtree Road • High-Country Ridge Hike With Big Views • Top Pick For Sweeping High Sierra Vistas
A moderate climb from the forest into open granite with far-reaching views over the Emigrant backcountry.
Accessed by a rough but passable side road above Pinecrest, the Gianelli Cabin trailhead puts you quickly into high-country terrain. The route to Burst Rock gains elevation at a steady but reasonable grade, trading lodgepole and fir forest for meadows, scattered granite slabs, and finally a lofty perch with views toward Relief Peak and the Emigrant Wilderness interior. Because the trailhead sits high, expect cooler temperatures, thinner air, and a shorter season; bring layers and be prepared to turn around if afternoon weather builds.