Discover the Sierra: Your Guide to Epic Day Hikes
The Sierra Nevada offers a vast network of trails, perfect for day hikes of all levels. From gentle strolls to challenging summit climbs, there’s a hike for everyone.
Explore the Sierra’s Best Day Hikes:
Find detailed trail descriptions, maps, and insider tips to plan your next Sierra adventure.
Embark on unforgettable day hikes in the majestic Sierra Nevada with Sierra Rec Magazine as your trusted guide. Discover a multitude of scenic trails that showcase the breathtaking beauty of this iconic mountain range. From cascading waterfalls to panoramic vistas, our comprehensive guide provides essential information and trail recommendations for an incredible day hiking experience. Explore the diverse terrain, encounter wildlife, and immerse yourself in nature’s wonders. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner seeking adventure, Sierra Rec Magazine has you covered with valuable insights and tips.
Every year I find myself coming back to Desolation Wilderness, studying the map and picking out a few hikes I haven’t done—or ones I want to experience again. With 2026 shaping up as a low snow year, access is going to come earlier, which opens the door to those classic granite basins and clear alpine … Read more
When I get the itch for High Sierra hiking, one of the areas I am drawn to is the portion of the Sierra near Bishop. One of the greatest aspects of this area is the availability of easily accessible trailheads. I was recently exploring the area and stumbled upon the hike to George Lake, a … Read more
Key Takeaways Hiking, a timeless activity deeply rooted in our desire to explore the outdoors, becomes an even richer experience when shared with a loyal four-legged companion. More and more pet owners recognize the joy and health benefits of bringing their dogs along as they traverse scenic trails. Before lacing up your boots, consider insights … Read more
Yosemite Valley Loop Trail: The Quietest, Most Authentic Hike in Yosemite Valley The Yosemite Valley Loop Trail is what most visitors miss—and what I sometimes wish I didn’t. At 11.5 miles (or 7.2 for the half loop), this mostly level path loops around the entire valley floor, offering a rare chance to experience Yosemite’s beauty … Read more
When you’re gearing up for an adventure in the Sierra Nevada, there’s one crucial thing you shouldn’t overlook—a well-prepared first aid kit. Whether you’re hiking through rugged mountains or exploring remote beaches, having the right medical supplies on hand can make all the difference. Let’s break down the essential items you need to pack for … Read more
The giant forest in Sequoia National Park is a special place in the Sierra Nevada. It was discovered in 1858 by local Hale Tharp, guided by a native Indian search party. Later named the Giant Forest by John Muir is not only the largest display of Giant Sequoia in the Sierra but is most recognized … Read more
As we welcome the dawn of a new year, there’s no better way to embrace fresh beginnings and resolutions than by exploring the great outdoors. For outdoor enthusiasts seeking a remarkable experience, the Bizz Johnson National Recreation Trail near Susanville, California, beckons with its 25.4 miles of scenic beauty, historical charm, and diverse recreational opportunities. … Read more
I’m sure many of you can relate to my absolute awe and fascination with the Eastern Sierra. I am always seeking new areas to explore and when someone recommended Iceberg Lake, I knew it was a hike I wanted to tackle before winter arrives. This incredible hike navigates around a series of lakes: Shadow Lake … Read more
Yosemite National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders, but one gem that often remains hidden from the spotlight is Chilnualna Falls. Located in the southern part of the park, this cascading wonder comes to life in high-water years, offering visitors an unforgettable experience. Join me on a journey to explore the magic of … Read more
Located off of Highway 50 and Sawmill rd. near Meyers California , at the base of the breathtaking Echo Summit sits Washoe Meadows State Park. The undeveloped park encompasses a vast expanse of pristine meadows and lush woodlands, providing a serene retreat for visitors seeking solace from the hustle and bustle of tourism in Lake … Read more
Man stands and views Carson Iceberg Wilderness. Photo Credit Brandon Pankey
The Carson Valley is steeped in history, with its roots dating back to the early days of the Pony Express traveling through Genoa. The town served as a stop along the Pony Express route, which carried mail and messages between St. Joseph, Missouri, and Sacramento, California, in the mid-1800s. Genoa was also an important stop … Read more
Spring hiking can be a challenge in the Eastern Sierra’s, not to mention unpredictable due to varying snow levels and melt. We decided to venture out to Hoover Wilderness near Bridgeport to explore the area around Twin Lakes and hike along Robinson Creek with hopes of making it to Barney Lake. Of course, the drive … Read more
South Lake Tahoe, Calif. – May 1, 2023—Starting today, the California Tahoe Conservancy is closing the Upper Truckee Marsh to dogs. This annual seasonal closure protects birds and other wildlife during the breeding season. People must keep dogs away from the sensitive marsh habitat through July 31. Beginning August 1, people may resume bringing leashed … Read more
If you’ve ever been hiking, you’ll realize how exhausting it can be. When you’re that far from civilization, you’ll need a few essential things.
A land of 14,000 foot peaks, clear blue mountain lakes, glacial carved canyons, and granite cliffs. Mono County is your gateway to High Sierra hiking & backpacking. Hundreds of miles of trails wind through the Inyo and Humboldt- Toiyabe National Forests, including the John Muir, Ansel Adams, and Hoover Wilderness. As a staff we find … Read more
It’s important to stay safe and warm when you are planning a hike in the wintertime. Here are three essential tips for hiking in the winter season.
Hiking is a less complicated physical activity, but making mistakes can damper the experience. Here are some of the most common ones and how to avoid them.
Tackling Ansel Adams and Hoover Wilderness Lakes hikes on a Fall Day Hike Excursion near Yosemite Lee Vining Ca- Hoover and Ansel Adams Wilderness Hikes – Mono County Fall Hikes – With summer in the rear view mirror me and my hiking buddies have been discussing how little we have been able to get out … Read more
Hiking from Tuolumne Meadow to Glen Aulin high Camp Charlie Pankey, Sierra Rec Magazine’s intrepid publisher, couldn’t resist the allure of early spring’s siren call to the outdoors. With a twinkle in his eye and a spirit of adventure, he convinced his wife to join him on a trek to witness the majestic Tuolumne Falls … Read more
Eldorado National Forest Reminds Everyone of Fire Safety this Memorial Day Weekend along with several Recreational Openings. May 27, 2021 – Memorial Weekend kicks off the busy summer recreation season for the Eldorado National Forest. Crews have been busy getting recreation sites prepared for the public to enjoy. Not all facilities are typically open by … Read more
Public Notice or Popular Trail Closure – Feather Falls Area Closed Oroville, CA May 28, 2021— Extensive fire damage to facilities on Plumas National Forestland in the Feather Falls, CA area will take a minimum of several years to repair. Facilitiesneeding to be reconstructed, including the Feather Falls Trail, Campground, and Overlook, willremain closed in … Read more
The Crystal basin is an outdoor lifestyle paradise. Located just east of Sacramento with access off highway 50, boaters, campers, off-roaders, hikers and sight seer’s from the local region flock here all summer long for a little Sierra adventure. On our latest visit we explored the popular Bassi Falls trails for a great spring adventure. … Read more
Back to Nature ~ Here our our picks for 7 Great Family Hikes for Kids on the Eastside of the Sierra For the past 6 years of producing Sierra Rec Magazine online, the number one question i get from friends and readers is, “Where is a Good Place to Take my Kids Hiking?” We’ll today … Read more
Black Point Fissures Provides A Unique Sierra Hiking Experience at Mono Lake I have driven by Mono Lake a hundred times, even on occasions stopping at the visitors center and walking the boardwalk on the south west shores, but until recently I had never heard of a set of Slot Canyons (Fissures) that begged to … Read more
Winter Adventure in Markleville Ca at Grover’s Hot Spring State Park is a locals favorite for waterfalls and big trees. Tamarack Fire Update – As of Feb 2022 this trail is closed due to the devastating fire that occurred in Summer 2021. Markleville ca – February 2021 – A fresh coats of powder surprised the … Read more
Temporary National Forest Closure Extended past Original Sept 14th Date to the 21st of September. VALLEJO, Calif., September 15, 2020 – UPDATE on National Forest Closures in California . Regional Order No. 20-11 prohibiting building, maintaining, attending orusing a fire, campfire, or stove fire, or smoking on National Forest System lands under myjurisdiction. This order will … Read more
A Yosemite National Park Hidden Gem Located on Parker Pass John Muir once discussed his distain for hikers that hiked through an area with out truly enjoying what the forest and mountains contained for them. “Now these mountains are our Holy Land, and we ought to saunter through them reverently, not ‘hike’ through them” – John Muir … Read more
There are many different ways to spend a 4th of July holiday in America. For the past two years I have choose to spend most of the day by myself on a solo hiking experience in Yosemite National Park. This year I chose to explore one the furthest east trail experiences and to discover more … Read more
Public Safety Alert – Plumas National Forest Sierrra Rec Magazine – QUINCY, CALIF. June 2, 2020 – The Fern Falls Trail Bridge is closed to protect the visiting public, until it can be demolished and removed, likely in summer 2020. Lower Fern Falls (non-motorized) Trail (#12E41) remains open and may be accessed by fording Graeagle … Read more
Another Weekend Adventure Into the Carson Iceberg Wilderness – Snodgrass Trailhead Sierra Rec Magazine- Trail Review – Carson iceberg Wilderness – June 2020 – It is not often in my trail reviews that I start at the top of the mountain and hike down into the valleys of the wilderness. Yet on the last day … Read more
The benefits of hiking have been euphorically embraced from ancient times on. Hippocrates, the Greek physician, considered walking to be the best medicine. And here in Mariposa County, there’s plenty of that medicine to go around. With soaring 13,000 foot peaks, historical oak-studded river valleys, and thundering waterfalls, Yosemite Mariposa offers what could be the … Read more
The Plumas National Forest, Beckwourth Ranger district, Tahoe National Forest and Sierra Buttes Range District approve project to connect approx 19.79 miles of multi-use single track from the city of Portola to then recreational community of Gold Mountain. Giving recreational opportunity to the Beckwourth peak region. The Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship posted this release on … Read more
Once Known Simply As The “Devils Valley” Desolation Wilderness Turns 50! Sierra Rec Magazine, October 2019 – In 1969, the Lake Tahoe Region became home to Americas newest Wilderness Area, Desolation Wilderness. A 64,000 acre plot of land once called the “Devils Valley” inhabited only by the Washoe and set aside as the Desolation Valley … Read more
10 Best Day Hikes from Tioga Pass and Yosemite National Park Hwy 120
Explore and Enjoy this Ebbetts Pass Scenic Trail With Local Trail Experts The Arnold Trail located off Hwy 4 just west of the Calaveras Big Tree State Park, is great location to explore the Western Sierra Region and experience a full moon sunset hike. The Arnold Trail Association leads several guided experiences each year and … Read more
2019 preseason lottery for Half Dome permits will open at 7:00 am PDT on Wednesday, March 13, 2019. Yosemite National Park, March 7, 2019 – Yosemite National Park announces that the 2019 preseason lottery for Half Dome permits will open at 7:00 am PDT on Wednesday, March 13, 2019. For the latest information on the … Read more
Five Lakes worth hiking to out of Meeks Bay into Desolation Wilderness
Celebrate National Get Outdoors Day, June 9 and celebrate Early Season Conditions At Lassen Volcanic National Park Sierra Rec Magazine ~ June 7, 2018 – Chester Ca – Participate in the Lassen Volcanic National Park Reach Higher Trail Challenge and earn a commemorative bandana. Saturday, June 9, Lassen Volcanic celebrates National Get Outdoors Day with the annual … Read more
Crystal Clear Waters Combined With High Alpine Peaks That Will Stop You In Your Tracks Sierra Rec Magazine Adventure Review – September 2017 – Visiting and Exploring 20 Lakes Basin was so much more than I had expected. Have you ever heard a review of a location and it just didn’t do it for you, so … Read more
