Hikes in Stanislaus National Forest
Encompassing the entirety of the Emigrant Wilderness and portions of the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness and the Mokelumne Wilderness, there is an extensive network of backcountry routes for you to enjoy. So whether you are seeking a relaxing nature walk along the Clavey River or a technical climb up Sonora Mountain—the Stanislaus National Forest delivers. Explore the area’s diversity of flora and fauna, and revel in the beauty of the Sierra Nevada in the Stanislaus National Forest.
The 10 Best Hiking Routes in the Stanislaus National Forest
As self-proclaimed hiking aficionados, we have curated a list of the greatest hikes in the Stanislaus National Forest, from high country treks to enchanting forest trails—we’ve got you covered. Check out our favorite hikes!
- Kennedy Meadows to Relief Reservoir Trail - There is no question as to why the Kennedy Meadows to Relief Reservoir Trail is at the top of most hiking ranks in the Stanislaus National Forest. Wander past several waterfalls, natural pools, and granite rock formations to the reservoir and dam—this trek is unparalleled in its beauty.
- Highland Lakes Loop - Indulge yourself in the stunning views of two shimmering alpine lakes and the imposing Sierra Nevada Mountains along the Highland Lakes Loop. This short but scenic hike exposes mesmerizing vistas and offers ideal fishing opportunities.
- God’s Bath Clavey River Trail - The God’s Bath Clavey River Trail is an epic expedition that delivers waterfalls, rock sculptures, and swimming holes. This adventure is best enjoyed in the summer months when the alpine waters are refreshing and not frigid.
- Lake Alpine Trail - Explore the picturesque alpine reservoir along the Lake Alpine Trail. This fun-family adventure boasts beautiful scenes of the shimmering waters, bounding forestlands, and looming granite peaks.
- Boulder Lake Hike - Yet another alpine lake to indulge in. The Boulder Lake Hike is a secluded trail hidden in the High Sierra that wanders through dense woodlands before opening to the alpine pool flanked by the craggy cliffs of Boulder Peak.
- Hyatt Lake Trail - The Hyatt Lake Trail is an incredible hike through unique terrains. Put your navigational skills to the test as you venture the unmarked granite landscape to the picture-perfect granite basin. If you are seeking an exciting excursion, this is the perfect adventure for you.
- Arnold Rim Trail - Leading hikers through diverse topographies, the Arnold Rim Trail provides a stimulating experience. Ideal for intermediate adventurers, this trail travels through a forest of cedar, pine, fir, and oak to the cascading waterfall.
- Cleo’s Bath Hike - Hike up to a hidden swimming hole on the Stanislaus River along the Cleo’s Bath Hike. This scenic excursion travels along the shoreline of Pinecrest Lake before escaping into the river valley.
- Calaveras North Grove Trail - Explore the Calaveras Big Trees State Park as you venture the family-friendly Calavera North Grove Trail. This amazing nature walk guides adventures through a sea of giant sequoias. This grove is amongst the most secluded and underrated in the state– dance atop the stump of the largest known sequoia!
- Calaveras South Grove Trail - The Calaveras South Grove Trail is another impressive adventure through a grove of giant sequoias. This adventure boasts incredible views of the impressive conifers that adorn the landscape.
When is the Best Time to Visit the Stanislaus National Forest?
The Stanislaus National Forest is a wonderful wilderness area that can be enjoyed year-round. Both the summer and winter months offer numerous outdoor pursuits to partake in, satisfying adventurers of all calibers. Though accessible and lively year-round, the summer is undoubtedly the most popular time of the year to visit the Stanislaus National Forest.
The warmer months boast incredible hiking as the vegetation is lush, wildflowers have bloomed, snowmelt streams surge, and most of the high-altitude trails are clear of snow! Offering favorable hiking conditions, the summer months warrant a busier, more crowded experience. Winter trips are full of wonderment but also limitations. Many roads become impassable, and campgrounds are closed after snowfall. On the bright side, winter escapes are far more tranquil. Most suggest visiting in the shoulder seasons—spring and autumn— to seize the warmer weather and beat the crowds!
Other Outdoor Activities in the Stanislaus National Forest
Offering an extensive network of routes, the Stanislaus National Forest is obviously a hiker’s paradise—but it is not limited solely to hiking adventures. Decorated with a myriad of alpine lakes, river valleys, snow-capped crests, and lush forestlands, the outdoor pursuits here are abundant!
Water adventures are a popular recreational activity in the warmer months! Whitewater raft or kayak down the Tuolumne River, paddleboard and sun along the shores of the Pinecrest Lake, or fish in the waters of the Highland Lakes. The summer and autumn also see plenty of mountain bikers and off-roaders heading out to explore the backcountry!
When fall turns to winter, and the terrain becomes cloaked in snow, many hiking routes are transformed into wonderful cross-country skiing and snowshoeing tracks for intrepid adventurers to explore. Additionally, there are several snowmobiling routes interspersed throughout the forest and two ski resorts to enjoy: Dodge Ridge and Bear Valley.
No matter the season, no matter the weather, there is an adventure awaiting you in the Stanislaus National Forest, so what are you waiting for?
Frequently Asked Questions About the Stanislaus National Forest
What is the Stanislaus National Forest known for?
The Stanislaus National Forest is most famously known for its natural beauty—from looming crests to alpine lakes and lush forestlands.
Are dogs allowed in the Stanislaus National Forest?
Yes, dogs on leash are allowed on most developed recreation sites and trails. Refer to the bulletins at the trailhead and lakes for restrictions and posted instructions.
Do you need a pass to visit the Stanislaus National Forest?
Day entry into the Stanislaus National Forest is free, but all overnight expeditions require a wilderness permit.
When is the Stanislaus National Forest open?
The Stanislaus National Forest is open year-round, but many main roads and campgrounds close seasonally from December to April.
Can you swim in Pinecrest Lake?
Yes, Pinecrest Lake, within the Stanislaus National Forest, is a popular spot for swimming.
Epic Adventure Tours in the Stanislaus National Forest
Unfortunately, we have yet to organize an adventure package for the Stanislaus National Forest but keep an eye out as we are always working on adding more exciting tours to the collection! Until then, we urge you to check out our Sierra Nevada Tours, which include awesome expeditions into the High Sierra.
Find Other Amazing Hiking Regions in California
The Stanislaus National Forest is a beautiful landscape characterized by soaring mountains, alpine lakes, lush forests, granite gardens, and serrated river valleys. Covering 898,099 acres of wilderness at various altitudes- from 457 m to over 3,353 m- the area’s topographic diversity offers an incredible natural playground. Located along the western slope of the Sierra Nevada between Lake Tahoe and the Yosemite National Forest, the Stanislaus National Forest boasts a more sequestered but equally beautiful experience in California.
Best Hikes in Stanislaus National Forest
Sonora Peak Hike
Hike up to the summit of the Stanislaus National Forests’ highest peak along the Sonora Peak Hike. This demanding adventure rewards impressive scenes of the High Sierra from above the second-highest mountain pass in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range.
User Ratings
Bear Lake via Emigrant Wilderness Loop
Immerse yourself in the high country along the Bear Lake via Emigrant Wilderness Loop. This immersive experience boasts incredible views of not one but four shimmering alpine lakes, lush woodlands, and granite bluffs. This wonderful adventure is not for the faint of heart but rewards wonderful scenery.
User Ratings
Crabtree Trail to Bear Lake
The Crabtree Trail to Bear Lake is a beautiful hike within the bounds of the Stanislaus National Forest. This scenic path travels through meadowlands dotted with cattle and through lush woodlands before opening to the alpine lake bound by granite bluffs. We love this hike, and you will too.
User Ratings
San Antonio Creek Falls Trail
There is nothing better than a hike that culminates at a waterfall, and the San Antonio Creek Falls Trail delivers. Explore the enchanting mixed conifer woodlands adorned with granite outcrops before exposing the 89ft cascades.
User Ratings
Chewing Gum Lake Loop
We know what you are thinking—no, the lake is not full of chewing gum, nor is there free chewing gum at the trailhead. Disappointed? You shouldn’t be, the Chewing Gum Lake Loop is an incredible adventure through diverse terrains, exposing dumbfounding views of the High Sierra and alpine lakes.
User Ratings
Lake Alpine and Duck Lake Loop
Hidden in the high country is the Lake Alpine and Duck Lake Loop. This incredible adventure boasts wonderful scenes of the shimmering alpine lakes and encompassing granite summits. Ideal for intermediate hikers and families with older children, this backcountry hike will not disappoint.
User Ratings
Sourgrass 4×4 Trail
Immerse yourself in the lush woodlands of the Stanislaus National Forest as you venture the Sourgrass 4x4 Trail. Wander beneath the shade of the looming pines as you navigate the rocky terrain along the North Fork Stanislaus River. This amazing route is shared with intrepid off-roaders, so it may be noisy!
User Ratings
Relief Reservoir Trail
The Relief Reservoir Trail is one of the most scenic adventures in the Stanislaus National Park—we’re serious. This epic excursion boasts waterfalls, natural pools, wildflower meadows, granite valleys, and footbridges all before opening to the reservoir and dam. You’ve got to see this!
User Ratings
Preston Falls Trail
The Preston Falls Trail is a secluded adventure in the Stanislaus National Forest that boasts wonderful scenery of the Tuolumne River and imposing mountains. On a warm day, this hike boasts the ideal opportunity to cool off in the slow-moving pools along the trail.
User Ratings
Mount Reba Hike
The Mount Reba Hike boasts amazing scenery of the High Sierra. Marvel at the beauty of the Mokelumne River Canyon and the looming Mokelumne Peak from atop the granite summit. Though this route is accessible year-round, the winter offers the most fun experience as you can hike up then ski back down the trail.
User Ratings
Mount Reba via Lake Alpine Hike
The Mount Reba via Lake Alpine Hike is an epic excursion that boasts breathtaking views of the High Sierra. Explore the Stanislaus National Forest and marvel in the grandeur of California’s high country as you venture this scenic route.
User Ratings
Voyager Rock to Hobler Lake Hike
The Voyager Rock to Hobler Lake Hike is an awesome adventure that boasts a peaceful, secluded nature walk in the Stanislaus National Forest. Wander through the mixed conifer woodlands before opening to Hober Lake—a charming alpine pool.
User Ratings
Wheeler Lake Hike
The Wheeler Lake Hike is an awesome adventure in the Stanislaus National Forest that guides hikers up to the divide between the Stanislaus River and the Mokelumne River. Revel in the beauty of the mountainous landscape from atop the pass before hiking down to the scenic alpine lake.
User Ratings
Waterhouse Lake Trail
Reconnect with nature and let the amazing views of the granite bluffs adorned with towering pines that flank the waters of an alpine lake. The Waterhouse Lake Trail is an amazing adventure in the Stanislaus National Forest that is a must add to your adventure itinerary.
User Ratings
West Side Railroad Trail
The West Side Railroad Trail would be an excellent addition to your Stanislaus National Forest itinerary. Manageable for hikers of all skill levels and partially accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, this trek can be enjoyed by all! What are you waiting for? Let’s go!
User Ratings
Pinecrest Peak Trail
The Pinecrest Peak Trail is an epic excursion in the high country. The picturesque views and lush forestlands afford anyone a good time. Though demanding, this trek is a must-add to your Stanislaus National Forest hiking itinerary.
User Ratings
Grouse Lake via Emigrant Wilderness Loop
The Grouse Lake via Emigrant Wilderness Loop is an excellent adventure for those seeking an intermediate day hike or a lovely overnight expedition. Explore diverse landscapes and revel in the picture-perfect views along the way.
User Ratings
Inspiration Point via Lake Alpine Hike
The Inspiration Point via Lake Alpine Hike is a fun family adventure hidden high in the alpine terrain. Spend the day basking in the sun along the shores of Lake Alpine and swimming in the refreshing waters before hiking to the summit of Inspiration Point to watch the sunset over the Sierra.
User Ratings
Sugar Pine Railway Trail
The Sugar Pine Railway Trail is a fun family adventure in the Stanislaus National Forest that guides explorers along the waters of the South Fork Stanislaus River. Hike or bike through the river valley and dip your toes in the refreshing waters.
User Ratings
Burst Rock Hike
The Burst Rock Hike is an awesome adventure that families and novice hikers alike can enjoy. Wander the easy-going to the summit of the granite outcrop and reward yourself with 360-degree panoramas of the Sierra.