Kernville, California
Kernville, California, is the top spot for outdoor adventures. Among the best trails and outdoor activities, the Whiskey Flat Trail is a must-visit. This 15-mile trail offers scenic views of the Kern River, verdant forests, and rugged rock formations. It's a moderately difficult trail, suitable for hikers with some experience. For a gentler option, try the Kernville River Walk, a flat path along the river's edge with stunning views. Nearby, the Sequoia National Forest offers camping, fishing, and rafting opportunities. For a unique attraction, visit the Kern River Hatchery, home to rainbow trout. Kernville is your gateway to the best in California's outdoors.
Top Spots in and near Kernville
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Kern County, California
Camp Under Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Canyon is a must stop for those driving along Highway 14 between the Owens and Antelope Valleys. The park is located where the southernmost tip of the Sierra Nevada converge with the El Paso Range and features scenic desert cliffs, buttes, and spectacular rock formations. Each tributary ...Read more -
Cantil, California
Hike Nightmare Gulch
10 mi / 1200 ft gainHeading north on highway 14, pass the turnoff for Ricardo campground on your left and take the second turn-off on the right, immediately past the large rock outcropping. Park and walk a few feet up the obvious trail and you should see a sign for Scenic Canyon to the right. Follow that trail acros...Read more -
Three Rivers, California
Backpack to Crystal Lakes
5.09.8 mi / 2200 ft gainThe trail to Crystal Lakes begins at the Timber Gap/Sawtooth Trailhead (7,800 feet elevation), which is located at the end of Mineral King Valley Rd. The trail immediately ascends through a meadow boasting dramatic alpine views and a roaring waterfall. Eventually you'll cross Monarch Creek and b...Read more -
Three Rivers, California
Backpack the Little Five & Big Five Lakes Loop
5.026.5 mi / 10000 ft gainDay 1: A long, rewarding day. Over the course of 11.5 miles you will complete around 10,000ft of elevation change. To start, park the car at the Sawtooth-Monarch Trailhead (7500ft) and begin on the trail, immediately ascending to Timber Gap (9500ft). Once at the gap, the trail makes it's way do...Read more -
Three Rivers, California
Hike to Lower Monarch Lake
5.08.4 miThe drive takes about 90 minutes to get to the trailhead from Three Rivers, CA so plan accordingly and make sure you get there early. Lower Mineral Lake is located below Sawtooth Peak in Sequoia National Park.Once you're parked and ready to jump on the trail, head to the Sawtooth Trailhead. You'l...Read more -
Three Rivers, California
Backpack to Franklin Lakes & Franklin Pass
11.4 mi / 2500 ft gainFranklin Lakes is part of the Sequoia National Park and can be reached from the trailhead starting near the Mineral King Ranger Station. Bear containers are required and can be rented at the Ranger Station. The hike to Franklin Lakes campground will take 6 hours or less (depending on your speed/h...Read more -
Three Rivers, California
Backpack in Mineral King
5.030 miThe trailhead is right near the Mineral King Ranger Station (on Mineral King Rd) in Sequoia National Park. Depending on where you're coming from I would recommend driving in and camping at Cold Springs Campground (which is also in close proximity to the ranger station) the night before you begin ...Read more
