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Big Creek, California

Big Creek, California offers some of the best trails and outdoor activities. One must-visit is the Big Creek Trail, a scenic route that takes you through a dense forest of pine and redwood trees. The trail is moderately challenging, making it perfect for those seeking a bit of an outdoor adventure. Along the way, you'll pass by the stunning Big Creek Bridge, a historic landmark that provides panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. The trail also features a variety of natural attractions, including the roaring Big Creek Falls and the tranquil Big Creek Lake. Whether you're into hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Big Creek is a top destination for all.

Top Spots in and near Big Creek

  • Tulare County, California

    Tokopah Falls

    4.2
    3.77 mi / 617 ft gain
    This hike starts from the Lodgepole area of Sequoia National Park. Parking is easy at the easternmost end of the paved road prior to entering the campground. From the south side, the trail starts off by crossing the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River to the north side. It then loosely follows the r...
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  • Sequoia National Park, California

    Hike to Emerald Lake, Sequoia National Park

    4.5
    10.4 mi / 2200 ft gain
    Begin this hike at the Alta Peak Trailhead in the Sequoia National Park. The trail initially takes you east-southeast through a loosely forested area that is stark and arid. Around 1.5 miles in you'll cross a small creek, but this creek may dry up in the late spring/summer. Shortly after the cree...
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  • Sequoia National Park, California

    Hike to Pear Lake via the Lakes Trail

    5.0
    12.4 mi / 2300 ft gain
    The Lakes Trail to Pear Lake can be done as either an overnight stay or a day hike.  For overnight, you'll need to get a permit but there are beautiful camping spots available at both Emerald Lake and Pear Lake.  As a day hike, plan to spend all day since you'll undoubtedly pause at each lake for...
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  • Sequoia National Park, California

    Backpack to Big Bird Lake & Moose Lake

    30 mi / 8000 ft gain
    This trip requires a wilderness permit. You can get one at the Lodgepole Visitor Center where you can also rent a bear canister or use the bathroom before heading out.Wolverton Trailhead -> Big Bird Lake (~12 miles)The start of the trail is on the left side of the parking lot and towards the m...
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  • Tuolumne County, California

    Middle Gaylor Lake

    1.46 mi / 764 ft gain
    The main trail to the Middle Gaylor Lake is about 1.5 miles round-trip, but if you’re looking for more adventure, you can hike a little further to Upper Gaylor Lake (which will add a mile to your trip) or continue on to the Great Sierra Mine (which will add 2 miles to your trip). The Gaylor Lake...
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  • Twain Harte-Tuolumne City, California

    Mount Dana

    5.0
    4.89 mi / 3120 ft gain
    There's something special about the landscape that Yosemite National Park offers, and the scenery around Mount Dana is no different. The trail begins at the Tioga Gate entrance to Yosemite with the trailhead at the north end of the small parking lot south of the gate. It winds through the ponds,...
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  • Sequoia National Park, California

    Hike the Congress Trail

    5.0
    3.1 mi / 500 ft gain
    While the General Sherman Tree is the main attraction in this area, the Congress Trail allows you to get away from the majority of the crowd and explore the giant sequoias at your leisure. The vast majority of visitors only walk to and from the General Sherman Tree. The trail starts out from the ...
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  • Tuolumne County, California

    Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias

    4.2
    2.67 mi / 653 ft gain
    The Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias is one of three sequoia groves in Yosemite National Park. This particular grove has gorgeous forest scenery and provides great solitude compared to the crowded Yosemite Valley. The trail used to be an old road offering a wide path with a gradual descent, makin...
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