01
Best overall pick
Trail of 100 Giants
Giant Sequoia National Monument East Of Porterville • Family-Friendly Giant Sequoia Grove Loop • Iconic Nearby Big-Tree Walk
A short, mostly level loop that winds through some of the largest and oldest sequoias within an easy drive of Terra Bella.
If you only have time for one mountain outing, this is the place locals send visitors. The paved and packed-dirt path makes it easy for mixed-ability groups, but you still get that cinematic feeling of standing beneath enormous trunks. Go early or on a weekday to enjoy quieter moments among the trees.
02
Waterfall crowd-pleaser
Tokopah Falls Trail
Lodgepole Area, Sequoia National Park • Riverside Granite Canyon Hike To A Seasonal Waterfall • Best For Families Who Like A Little Adventure
A gently climbing trail along the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River that ends at a dramatic cascade in a granite amphitheater.
Tokopah feels adventurous without being technical, thanks to steady elevation gain and plenty of stopping spots along the river. In early summer, the falls roar and the polished granite walls feel almost alpine. Parking can fill quickly near Lodgepole on weekends, so arrive early or target a late-afternoon start.
03
Big-view alpine trek
Lakes Trail
Wolverton Trailhead, Sequoia National Park • Steep High Sierra Trail To Subalpine Lakes And Ridgelines • Best For Strong Hikers And Peak-Baggers
A demanding climb from the forested Wolverton area into a string of high-country lakes with sweeping views back toward the Central Valley.
From the first switchbacks, the Lakes Trail feels decidedly high-mountain, with cool air, big pines, and long vistas. Many hikers turn around at Heather or Emerald Lake, but continuing higher rewards you with quieter shores and a real sense of being in the backcountry. Start early, bring layers, and be ready for afternoon thunderstorms in midsummer.
04
Quiet summit option
Jordan Peak Lookout Trail
Sequoia National Forest Northeast Of Springville • Pine Forest Trail To A Historic Fire Lookout Summit • Best Nearby Summit Hike
A moderate climb through shady forest to a rocky summit with wide views over the southern Sierra foothills.
Jordan Peak is a solid choice when you want a classic summit feel without committing to a full-day epic. The unpaved access road keeps crowds down, so it often feels more local than the national park trails. Check seasonal road and fire-closure info before you go, since access can change year to year.
05
Low-elevation escape
Wind Wolves Preserve
San Emigdio Mountains Southwest Of Bakersfield • Expansive Grassland And Canyon Preserve With Network Of Trails • Best Shoulder-Season Wildflower Hike
Rolling ranchland, creek-fed canyons, and open views make this preserve a great option when the higher Sierra is snowy or stormy.
In late winter and spring, wildflowers can carpet the hills here, and the cooler temps make the long, open climbs more comfortable. Several loop options let you choose anything from a mellow stroll along the creek to a longer trek into the back canyons. Because it is a protected preserve, stay on marked routes and respect posted hours and closures.