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North Fork, California

North Fork, California, a top spot for outdoor adventures, offers some of the best trails and outdoor activities. One must-visit is the Willow Creek Trail, known for its scenic beauty. This moderate-difficulty trail boasts a variety of natural features, including lush forests, a sparkling creek, and unique rock formations. Another highlight is the Mammoth Pool, a pristine lake perfect for fishing and boating. Near North Fork, the Sierra Vista Scenic Byway is a must-see. This driving route offers stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, providing ample opportunities for photography. Whether you're a hiker, angler, or simply appreciate the great outdoors, North Fork has something for you.

Top Spots in and near North Fork

  • Bishop, California

    Hike to Emerald Lakes

    7.2 mi / 1719 ft gain
    If you are considering this hike, then I am sure you are already familiar with the undeniable beauty that the Eastern Sierra radiates. Any season, any time- it is there. One of my particular favorites for a day hike to experience this beauty is the trek to Emerald Lake outside of Bishop.From Bish...
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  • Lee Vining, California

    Hike to Upper Sardine Lake

    Directions (from south of June Lake): 395 northTurn right onto the 158Keep right at fork onto Parker Lake Rd and go about 0.5 milesTurn right at first right and head all the way to the top until you hit a parking lot/camping ground/trail head From North of June Lake: 395 southTurn left at 158Keep...
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  • 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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  • Mono County, California

    Crab Cooker Hot Springs

    Getting There: Take Highway 395 heading toward Benton Crossing Road. Turn onto Benton Crossing and you’ll see an adorable wee green church. Continue two miles down the road. You’ll make a left turn and head down a dirt road. Cell service is scant in this area, so you'll probably want to...
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  • Mono County, California

    Shepherd Hot Springs

    4.0
    Located a short distance from US 395 near Mammoth/Yosemite Airport, Shepherd Hot Spring provides a great opportunity to relax while taking in spectacular views of the Eastern Sierras and surrounding area. After a hard day on the slopes or long day on the trail this hot spring provides a comforta...
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  • Tulare County, California

    Hike to the Summit of Big Baldy, Kings Canyon National Park

    4.5
    5 mi / 650 ft gain
    This short and easy trail to the summit of Big Baldy in Kings Canyon National Park is not to be missed if you are in the area.The trail winds through forest and boulders as it climbs the north shoulder of Big Baldy. When you think you have reached the end, and you see people sitting down with the...
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  • Mammoth Lakes, California

    Soak in Mammoth's Hilltop Hot Springs

    4.3
    Mammoth’s volcanic valley floor is peppered with these natural steamy tubs with panoramic views of the Eastern Sierra. It’s pretty damn whimsical. My personal favorite is the Hilltop Hot Tub, which is a man-made stone pool fed by a bubbling, steamy creek. According to some corner of the web, it i...
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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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