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Best forest hikes in Inyo County
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Best forest hikes in Inyo County

Need a nature reset? These forest hikes will immerse you in a sea of greenery.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Inyo County.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

Blue Lake via Sabrina Basin Trail

Inyo County, California · star 4.7 (10) · 9.5 km · Est. 2 hrs 39 min

2

Medium

Mack Lake, Mono Pass and Summit Lake via Little Lakes Valley Trail

Inyo County, California · star 4.5 (6) · 13.8 km · Est. 3 hrs 49 min

3

Medium

First to Seventh Lake via North Fork Big Pine Creek Trail

Inyo County, California · star 4.8 (4) · 25.2 km · Est. 6 hrs 53 min

4

Easy

Gem Lake, Heart Lake via Little Lakes Valley Trail

Inyo County, California · star 4.9 (7) · 11.6 km · Est. 2 hrs 59 min

5

Medium

Cottonwood Lakes Trail and New Army Pass Trail Loop

Inyo County, California · star 4.0 (2) · 20.3 km · Est. 5 hrs 19 min

6

Medium

First, Second and Third Lakes via North Fork Big Pine Creek Trail

Inyo County, California · star 4.6 (5) · 18.7 km · Est. 5 hrs 9 min

7

Medium

Cottonwood Lakes and Guitar Lake via John Muir Trail

Inyo County, California · star N/A (0) · 66.0 km · Est. 3 days

8

Medium

Bull Lake via Bishop Pass Trail

Inyo County, California · star 4.7 (6) · 6.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 54 min

9

Extra difficult

George Lake via Sabrina Basin Trail

Inyo County, California · star 4.7 (3) · 4.8 km · Est. 1 hrs 55 min

10

Medium

Fifth Lake and Black Lake via North Fork Big Pine Creek Trail

Inyo County, California · star 4.4 (7) · 20.2 km · Est. 5 hrs 41 min

SHOW MORE HIKES

Reviews for forest hikes in Inyo County

Leonel Tillman avatar

Blue Lake via Sabrina Basin Trail

MesaBlazer64 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Clora West avatar

Mack Lake, Mono Pass and Summit Lake via Little Lakes Valley Trail

CliffFinder42 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Ollie Flatley avatar

First to Seventh Lake via North Fork Big Pine Creek Trail

SummitRanger42 · reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

Mozelle Doyle avatar

Gem Lake, Heart Lake via Little Lakes Valley Trail

SpruceHiker55 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Franklin Wehner avatar

Cottonwood Lakes Trail and New Army Pass Trail Loop

RoamerSummitview91 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Inyo County

What is the climate like for hiking in California?

California's vast geography results in diverse climates. Coastal regions, with their mild, Mediterranean climate, offer year-round hiking opportunities, though winter rains may muddy trails. In contrast, the inland valleys and desert regions are best hiked from October to April, as summer temperatures can be prohibitive.
The Sierra Nevada, famous for its mountains and forests, is popular in summer and fall. However, winter brings heavy snowfall, making trails inaccessible. Meanwhile, the pleasant climate of Southern California allows for hiking throughout the year, with cooler, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
To summarize, California's diverse climate offers year-round hiking opportunities, varying by region. Visit www.parks.ca.gov for more detailed information about specific trails and their recommended seasons.

Do I need a permit to hike in California?

Permits for hiking in California, particularly in wilderness areas or for overnight trips, are often required. Managed by the National Park Service, Forest Service, or Bureau of Land Management, permit processes vary. For more information, visit respective agency websites or www.recreation.gov for federal lands.

Is wild camping allowed in California?

Wild camping in California is generally permitted in national forests and Bureau of Land Management lands. However, restrictions apply, such as the requirement of a campfire permit. Always follow "Leave No Trace" principles. Detailed regulations can be found on agency websites like www.fs.usda.gov

Are there mountain rescue services in California?

In case of a hiking emergency in California, dial 911. Also, the California Office of Emergency Services coordinates search and rescue. The Mountain Rescue Association (MRA) has several units in California, with information available at www.mra.org. Always plan ahead and hike safely.

Are there dangerous plants in California?

California's flora varies widely, from coastal scrub and redwood forests to desert plants and alpine flora in the Sierra Nevada. This diversity can affect hiking experiences and trail conditions. For detailed information on California's flora, visit the California Native Plant Society website: www.cnps.org

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in California?

California's diverse habitats host a wide range of wildlife, from harmless squirrels to larger mammals like black bears. Ticks and mosquitoes may pose minor nuisances to hikers. Be aware of potential encounters, particularly with venomous snakes in desert areas. For more, visit https://wildlife.ca.gov/

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