Three Of The Best Hiking Options Near Sacramento
Let’s Explore Places To Go Hiking Near Sacramento
By J.smith- Own work CC-BY-SA 3.0 , link
Sacramento is ideally situated for hiking. Sacramento is perfectly situated for Hiking. It’s only a few hours away from two very different and amazing regions: The Pacific Coast and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Sactown offers a variety of hiking options, whether you want to enjoy the sunshine and salty air on your nose, or you prefer a more challenging climb up a granite crag. These three hikes are perfect for a day of fun in the sun.
You can find out where to go Hiking near Denver, or Hiking near Boston.
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Jenkinson Lake at Pollock Pines
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This trail, at eight miles long, is ideal for all hikers regardless of age or fitness. The trail begins at the parking area next to Sly Park Campground, and continues around Jenkinson Lake. It’s mostly flat but there’s one section along the southern shore of the lake that is more difficult. Even novice hikers can handle it. The trail is a wide, paved dirt path with few rocks or roots. Mountain bikers also enjoy it because of its smooth surface. You should be aware of these hazards and not wear earbuds while hiking.
A short finger protrudes from the northeastern corner, leading to the Park Creek Waterfall. The waterfall is about 33 feet high, and its pool below makes a great place to cool off after a long day of sun. The trail is not very long, but there are a few sights to see along the way. It’s great for those looking for a relaxing but still quite a long hike. Kayaks and SUPs are available to rent at weekends during the summer.
Alamere Falls At Point Reyes
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This one is located in the Point Reyes National Seashore and requires a little bit of driving from Sacramento. If you are willing to drive three hours to reach the waterfall, you will be rewarded by a 30-foot coastal fall that empties into the Pacific Ocean. The 13-mile hike is an out-and back, so plan your trip to reach the falls during low tide when you can access the beach.
Palomarin Trailhead is where the hike starts. It can be quite busy on weekends. You’ll have to arrive very early in order to get a spot. If you can, hike the trail on a Monday and avoid all of the crowds. The trail begins in a stand Eucalyptus and continues almost half a kilometer to Abalone Point overlooking the beach. The trail continues uphill until Bass Lake. After another mile it turns inland. There is only one way to access the lake on the northeastern side due to the dense vegetation. The trail continues upwards and winds its way between Pelican Lake (with spur trails to both lakes) and Crystal Lake. One mile after the Bass Lake spur, the trail splits with one branch leading to Alamere Falls. The trail descends to Wildcat Beach via a challenging scramble along Alamere Creek. You can take a leisurely walk along the beach if you have timed the tides correctly.
Rockbound Pass The Desolation Wilderness
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The last hike is for the most adventurous of hikers. It offers a unique beauty found only in the Desolation Wilderness, a rugged and imposing terrain punctuated only by evergreens. Be sure to get a day permit from the Pacific Ranger Station located just outside Pollock Pines. The trail up to Rockbound Pass begins at Wright’s Lake, and continues through a series granite slabs. Some of these require scrambling. The pass is just six and half miles away, but it requires a 1,500-foot ascent. You’ll arrive at Maud Lake after four miles, where you can have a snack or lunch depending on the time you started. After the lake you will climb a series switchbacks to reach the pass. Rockbound Pass offers breathtaking views that will make you think you are on top of the planet. Dick’s Peaks, Jack’s Peaks, and a few lakes are all visible. Here you’ll have to decide whether to continue through the impressive landscape or to return to town.
You can hike downhill for three miles if you still want more. Doris and Lois are two beautiful lakes you will pass on the way. Lois is the final lake and it’s nine miles away from the trailhead. You’ll have to go back up the pass if you want to ever see your car (and family). Always carry enough water to suit the weather conditions.
The conclusion of the article is:
Sacramento is the perfect place for outdoor adventures. Only a few hours away from the Pacific Coast, the Sierra crests are only about an hour east. You can still enjoy some of the best hiking in the area, even if you have little time to get to a trailhead. This means that you can hike a few miles in the evenings whenever you get the chance. You may not feel it now, but you will thank yourself later.