01
Best overall forest hike
Unal Trail
Greenhorn Mountains Above Wofford Heights • Cool, Shaded Pine-And-Oak Loop • Local Favorite For Everyday Hiking
A mellow forested loop with just enough climb to earn big views back toward Lake Isabella and the Kern River Valley.
Unal Trail is the go-to choice when you want real mountain scenery without committing to an all-day push. The route winds through pine, oak, and manzanita, staying pleasantly shaded for most of the way, with occasional openings to peek out over the lake and surrounding ridges. It’s close enough to town for a quick before-lunch outing, yet feels tucked away from the highway bustle.
02
Best for wide-open summit views
Sunday Peak Trail
Greenhorn Summit Area • High-Country Summit Trail • Best For Clear-Day Vistas
A satisfying summit hike that stacks up steady elevation gain and finishes with sweeping views over Lake Isabella, the Kern Plateau, and distant Sierra peaks.
From the trailhead near Greenhorn Summit, the path climbs steadily through mixed conifer forest before breaking out onto the open slopes of Sunday Peak. The summit feels surprisingly alpine for being so close to Wofford Heights, with granite outcrops and a full-circle panorama that rewards the effort. Go early on warm days, bring layers for the often-breezy top, and give yourself time to linger at the summit rocks.
03
Best lakeview ridge walk
Isabella Peak Out-and-Back
Ridge Above Lake Isabella • Scenic Ridge And Peak Hike • Best For Lake And Valley Scenery
A moderate climb from the lakeshore up to a prominent ridge and peak, with near-constant views of Lake Isabella and the Kern River Valley.
Starting near the campgrounds on the north side of the lake, the trail climbs quickly onto open hillsides dotted with rocks and scrub, revealing the shape of Lake Isabella below. The higher you go, the more the view opens—first to Wofford Heights and the Greenhorns, then to the Kern River corridor stretching away to the south. It’s exposed for long stretches, so it’s especially pleasant on cool days or in the shoulder seasons when you can savor the skyline without the heat.
04
Best workout climb
Powers Peak
Foothills Near Kernville • Steep, Rugged Summit Hike • Best For Strong Hikers Seeking A Challenge
A tough, often steep route that rewards steady legs with a rugged summit and far-reaching views over the lower Kern River canyon.
Powers Peak is a favorite for locals who want a serious workout close to the river towns. The trail wastes little time gaining elevation, switching between rocky slopes and brushy sections as it grinds upward. Once on top, you get a commanding view that takes in Lake Isabella, the Kern River corridor, and layers of mountains that feel a world away from the marina and cafes below.
05
Best shady creekside option
Bull Run Creek Trail
Canyon North Of Wofford Heights • Wooded Creek And Canyon Hike • Best For Warm-Day Exploring
A quieter, more intimate hike that follows a forested creek drainage, trading big views for cool shade and the sound of running water.
Bull Run Creek Trail is where you go when you’d rather listen to a stream than stand on a windy summit. The path winds along the drainage through mixed forest, with pockets of lush vegetation that feel especially inviting in the heat of summer. Expect a few rougher patches underfoot and occasional downed logs, but also a welcome sense of being tucked into a corner of the mountains that many visitors never see.