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

  • Bishop, California

    Photography in the ButterMilks

    5.0
    The Eastern Sierras have some of the most spectacular views in the world. This area in particular is known for its rock climbing. It also has amazing opportunities for photographers.The nights during a new moon are incredibly dark and create great astro photography shots. During the day, the l...
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  • Bishop, California

    Bouldering In The Buttermilks

    5.0
    The Buttermilks is a historical climbing area that is home to some of the worlds most famous rock climbs. It is located at the base of the Eastern Sierras near Bishop, CA. In this region there are 3 main bouldering areas: The Happies, The Sads, and The Buttermilks.The Buttermilks are massive gr...
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  • Hume, California

    Big Stump Loop Trail

    5.0
    1.71 mi / 305 ft gain
    Big Stump Loop Trail is a loop trail where you may see wildflowers located near Dunlap, California.
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  • Crowley Lake, California

    Shady Rest Park

    5.0
    1.96 mi / 95 ft gain
    Shady Rest Park is a peaceful, family-friendly recreation area located just off Sawmill Road, only minutes from the center of Mammoth Lakes. With easy access, tall pine forests, and gently rolling terrain, it’s a great spot for walking, picnicking, biking, or simply soaking in the beauty of the E...
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  • Mariposa County, California

    Hike to Alder Creek Falls

    10 mi / 1000 ft gain
    The trail leads from the parking area across the Mosquito Creek road and heads uphill north through an open pine forest with manzanita growing on dry slopes. The trail provides access to Alder Creek Falls a hidden gem within Yosemite's Wawona wilderness. I did the trail towards the end of Februar...
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  • Mammoth Lakes, California

    Inyo Craters Trail

    4.5
    1.51 mi / 253 ft gain
    Inyo Craters Trail is a loop trail that is good for all skill levels located near Mammoth Lakes, California.
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  • Bishop, California

    Bishop Pass Trail

    5.0
    11.13 mi / 2165 ft gain
    To get to the hike drive twenty miles west from the town of Bishop, California up Hwy 168 to South Lake. There are two parking lots  but make sure to get there early because later in the day it's harder to get a spot.  The trail starts from South Lake at an an elevation of 9,750 feet. Initially ...
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  • Bishop, California

    Evolution Basin via South Lake

    35.66 mi / 7769 ft gain
    It’s been called the crown jewel of the Sierra Nevada, the highlight of the entire 211-mile John Muir Trail. Whatever superlatives are used to describe it, Evolution Basin is undoubtedly one of the most incredible landscapes you’ll ever explore. There is a small catch, though: There is no easy ...
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  • Bishop, California

    Treasure Lakes Trail

    5.0
    5.79 mi / 1375 ft gain
    The Treasure Lakes Trail is dog and kid friendly, just make sure all parties can handle the elevation gain. The scenery throughout the entire hike is amazing, and early in the summer, the creeks roar. The lake is perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day. The trail is best used in the summer an...
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  • Bishop, California

    Bishop Pass Trail to John Muir Trail to Piute Trail

    52.67 mi / 9173 ft gain
    Bishop Pass Trail to John Muir Trail to Piute Trail is a point-to-point trail that takes you by a lake located near Bishop, California.
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  • Bishop, California

    Backpack into the Palisades from Bishop Pass

    18 mi / 4000 ft gain
    Drive up to the trailhead near South Lake from the town of Bishop (you can get directions at the Ranger Station when you get a permit). The hike goes from approximately 9,000 ft. to 13,000 ft. over the course of 9 miles.The first approximately 6 miles are on trail to the top of Bishop Pass. From ...
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  • Bishop, California

    Long Lake via Bishop Pass

    5.0
    5.51 mi / 991 ft gain
    Directions The trailhead for Long Lake starts by South Lake outside Bishop, CA. You'll want to take Line Street, which is the 168, West out of Bishop. Approximately 14 miles up, you'll want to merge left towards South Lake. This junction is well-signed if you keep an eye out for it. Head th...
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  • Bishop, California

    Climb Columbine Peak's NE Ridge

    15 mi / 5000 ft gain
    Directions This Bishop Pass Trail starts by South Lake outside Bishop, CA. You'll want to take Line Street, which is the 168, West out of Bishop. Approximately 14 miles up, you'll want to merge left towards South Lake. This junction is well-signed if you keep an eye out for it. Head the rest ...
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  • Madera County, California

    John Muir Trail: Camping at Thousand Island Lake

    5.0
    This is one of the most recogizable lakes on the John Muir Trail and is known for being one of Ansel Adams' favorite places to photograph. Banner and Ritter Peaks tower over the tree covered islands and make for incredible scenery. This is a good spot to spend the day eating lunch and swimming ou...
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  • Fresno, California

    Tom Macmichael Senior Trail

    3.41 mi / 233 ft gain
    Tom Macmichael Senior Trail is a loop trail that takes you by a river located near Fresno, California.
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  • Tulare County, California

    Sugar Bowl Loop

    4.5
    6.46 mi / 1916 ft gain
    First and foremost, to get to this trailhead you need to drive down a 2-mile, one lane dirt road that is quite steep. It is highly recommended you do this in an AWD or 4WD vehicle, especially since the road can be muddy from snowmelt or after a recent rain. We have a 2WD car but used chains for e...
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