Search a hike or location

search
Best cave hikes in San Benito County
Share:

Best cave hikes in San Benito County

Ready to explore the dark and mysterious world below? These cave hikes offer a mix of adventure and intrigue.

Here are some great hikes to explore in San Benito County.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

Monolith via Moses Spring Trail

San Benito County, California · star 4.3 (9) · 1.8 km · Est. 31 min

2

Difficult

High Peaks Trail and Condor Gulch Loop Trail

San Benito County, California · star 4.7 (3) · 20.0 km · Est. 6 hrs 18 min

3

Difficult

Teaching Rock and Bear Gulch Reservoir Loop

San Benito County, California · star 4.7 (3) · 8.9 km · Est. 2 hrs 42 min

4

Difficult

North Chalone Peak via High Peaks Trail and Juniper Canyon Trail

San Benito County, California · star 4.5 (2) · 33.0 km · Est. 9 hrs 40 min

5

Difficult

High Peaks Trail, Condor Gulch Trail and Old Pinnacles Trail Loop

San Benito County, California · star 4.5 (4) · 21.1 km · Est. 5 hrs 54 min

6

Difficult

Bear Gulch Reservoir - Teaching Rock - High Peaks - Bear Gulch Loop Trail

San Benito County, California · star 4.0 (2) · 11.9 km · Est. 3 hrs 25 min

7

Difficult

Balconies Cliffs and Balconies Caves Loop Trail

San Benito County, California · star 4.3 (4) · 4.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 11 min

8

Medium

Old Pinnacles, Balconies and High Peaks Loop Trail

San Benito County, California · star 5.0 (1) · 13.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 37 min

9

Medium

North Wilderness and Old Pinnacles Loop Trail

San Benito County, California · star 4.3 (3) · 14.3 km · Est. 3 hrs 49 min

10

Medium

Pinnacle Rocks, High Peaks and Balconies Loop

San Benito County, California · star 5.0 (3) · 14.8 km · Est. 3 hrs 55 min

SHOW MORE HIKES

Reviews for cave hikes in San Benito County

Bruce Lang Jr. avatar

Monolith via Moses Spring Trail

SnowcapExpeditioner20 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Raymon Hintz avatar

High Peaks Trail and Condor Gulch Loop Trail

ForestTrotter19 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Penny Metz avatar

Teaching Rock and Bear Gulch Reservoir Loop

StriderHikerlife80 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Izola Zieme avatar

North Chalone Peak via High Peaks Trail and Juniper Canyon Trail

WildwoodCanyonrider27 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Michale Hyatt V avatar

High Peaks Trail, Condor Gulch Trail and Old Pinnacles Trail Loop

SummitviewLedgehopper15 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in San Benito 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/

More hikes in San Benito County

by difficulty

by type

by activity