We had an amazing morning walking my pup at the Kern River Parkway! It was a gorgeous day, and…read morethere were plenty of squirrels for him to try to befriend. We obviously stopped to grab a morning cafecito as we embarked on our walk! There was so much life happening! People walking their dogs, jogging, biking, and just enjoying the beautiful Bakersfield weather. Such a fun and peaceful time. I'll definitely be bringing my pup here more often!

I cycle all over the USA and some other countries, so last Sunday thankfully I was able to travel…read moreto Bakersfield to cycle the 20 mile (40 mile RT) paved Kern River Parkway Bike Trail I heard so much about. First I just have to say that the other cyclists I met on the trail here was so friendly that I thought that I was in Louisiana. What I mean is that when I am cycling in Irvine, Newport Beach or Santa Monica where I ride most of the time, less than 5% of other cyclists will say hello to you and less than 5% of other cyclists will respond if you say hello to them. But in Bakersfield, at least 75% of the cyclists that I past on the path said hello to me!! I could not believe it! I did not know what was going on? I was not used to that hospitality. What do they put in the water in Bakersfield? Maybe they all knew I was not from the City so they were being friendly--they probably all knew one another? It was a weird contrasting experience to life in LA. Anyway--I can write a book about my day on the Trail but will keep it concise: I parked at the River Walk Park which is located at 11298 Stockdale Hwy, 93311 (for those not from the city). Or you can can park at the outdoor shopping mall next door that has lot's of restaurants and a Target. (Don't park in front of any stores to bike ride--park in the middle or back.) From here, I first road the Trail West 9 miles to the end point. It's a lonely desolate stretch--I have never ridden anywhere where I was so alone for miles with no roads or cars. You can ride as fast as you want over here and bother no one. Every so often I came across someone. I did see a few single men and women riding alone that made me feel better. Then I returned to the River Walk Park--had lunch at the car from my cooler and then traveled East on the Path to the end. The East section passes bike stores, exit Coffee Road (which comes up right away) for Trader Joe's or Sully's Convenience Store or Starcrooks. You pass many parks and lakes and some restrooms. I saw on the East section of the path along the Kern River an Ecological Disaster with tons of garbage all over the river bed, graffiti, and homeless camping for endless miles. Some of the homeless were so entrenched that they had well developed tents, backyards, dogs, and even hanging clothes up to dry as if they have been living there for a long time. There were certain sections that were either scary or disconcerting riding the path alone. I felt like I needed to bring a handgun for protection to do this ride. As nice as it was having 20 miles of no car, well paved bike path in each direction, I am not sure I would do this ride again alone--I would if I returned with a riding partner. I gave the path 5 stars out of respect for Bakersfield years ago taking the planning time and resources to build a great bike and walking trail for the public. But what I saw going on along at least 8 miles of that path was an absolute disgrace that if was in charge of this city I would not tolerate for a second. I would fight every legal battle to return that River bed and it's adjacent areas to the condition it was 20 years ago. You do not have a right to set up residence in a public area. What I saw will cost tax payers Billions of Dollars in environmental cleanup. And yes, here is LA this is a problem too. Overall it was a Great day in Bakersfield--I can tell some of the best people in California live here.

I live here in Bakersfield for almost two years the fishing sucks even way up here in the kern…read moreriver I fished all the way up from the bridge all the way down from the river no fish I used flies and everything else and nothing. but the scenery is beautiful and dangerous at the same time really rocky if you want to catch fish try the kings river and upper kings there's lots of life in that river and wild life everywhere all year round up there take the 99 hwy to the 180 hwy it's a drive but worth it

LOVED IT ! Awesome spot right on the Kern River on your way to johnsondale and the trail of 100…read moreGiants

I've been to Windwolves several times for a hike over the past few years. We recently visited Wind…read moreWolves Preserve and had such a wonderful experience! My husband and I went for a hike, and it ended up being the perfect day to be outdoors. The trails were clean, well-maintained, and easy to follow, which made the hike really enjoyable. The weather was absolutely beautiful with clear skies and just the right temperature making it ideal for taking in the scenery and spending quality time together. It's such a peaceful spot to disconnect and enjoy nature. We'll definitely be back for another hike!

This place is a hiker's paradise. Lots of open land it's not only trails for hiking, but also a…read morebike trail. I have a large section for group camping, a little area with a waterfall for the kids to plane. They have first come first serve regular camping spots and lots of Wild.

Another amazing night spent at Mountain Park. Took about 9 kids for my sons party. Awesome place…read morefor the kids to play and explore. Roasting hot dogs and eating s'mores, what more could you want on a beautiful Tehachapi night? Highly recommend if you have never been here.

If you're looking for a park in the middle of nowhere, but still just outside town, where you can…read morecamp or visit on a day trip, this is your place. Granted you have to be in Tehachapi, or know where Tehachapi is, or be wanderIng around southeastern California, or have a sweet GPS. Given all the above transpiring, if you find yourself in the lucky position of needing to do a summer XC run with your sophomore weak-of-heart running daughter, just don't tell her about the steep uphill. You do get to run back down afterward anyway. Should you be able to trick your kids into the run or perhaps a hike, magnificent views await at the overlooks partway and all the way up. We're talking Twitter-background-wallpaper-quality shots (not that I would know). Should I wind up randomly or intentionally in T-town, I'll take another hike, provided I can talk the daughter into it ("no honey this isn't the one you remember, it's an easy hike":).

Absolutely stunning, amazing views, fresh air and super clean area. Lots of trash's located around…read more Peaceful. From entrance it's 45mins to get to the sequoia trees. Sundays don't require a fee. Definitely recommend. open 24/7 365 days a year.

I've always wanted to go to the Sequoia's. I didn't know what to expect but wanted to try and make…read morea loop so we drove up through Kernville. The Kern river was especially high and so were the temperatures. We ascended into the forest pretty quickly, following the river. There's a ton of camping along the river but not a lot of "forest". We stayed at the Durrwood Creek Lodge B&B for the night and got a fresh start early the next morning. About 10 miles up the road it finally started looking more "forest"like. But still a dry desert like California forest. As we continued driving we came across the 100 Giant Sequoia's park. We parked for $5 and walked amongst some ancient trees. The walk is paved and easily accessible for all. There were a lot of dead and fallen trees throughout the forest which was a bit sad and disheartening. The droughts, bark beetles, fires and wind storms really has taken a toll on this beautiful forest. I did learn that there is a difference between the National Forest and National Park. This is the National Forest. Land that has been set aside, in its natural habitat with minimal impact. There is primitive camping, hunting, and less maintained services. The Kings Canyon Sequoia National Park is more maintained with lodging, camping and visitor centers and requires an entrance fee. Both have giant Sequoia's. The road was maintained and an easy day drive. We made several stops to take photos and even came across several waterfalls right off the highway. We drove through a couple of small little towns. They're is a few restaurants, but no gas or cell service. I did enjoy seeing the giant Sequoia's. And if really like to rent a yurt up there! I look forward to getting through the National Park next.

Packsaddle hiking trail is located about 14 miles north of Kernville, located in Tulare county…read more Parking lot for Packsaddle trail is located about 500 feet past McNally's Fairview Lodge if your heading north. Trail head starts right across the street from parking lot. Make sure you stretch and be ready to start off with a steep climb for about a mile and a half befor you get a break. When you start hiking the trail, you will come to a fork on the trail about 200 feet from the start, stay to the RIGHT. You will cross the creek about 3 times back and fourth. Be careful after stepping on water or moist soil and then stepping on rocks. Yours boots, shoes might be very slippery after stepping on water, so don't slip and fall. Trail is about 5 miles total round trip. The only part that confuses everybody is where the trail splits off again, one towards the cave and the other towards I think it's called Rincon trail. (Look at my Packsaddle pics) the trail is pretty awesome, I have NEVER seen any Mtn lions, bears, bats or Bigfoot inside the cave. I have only seen small birds flying in and out. The cave is a little dusty, so take a mask if you don't deal to well with dust and don't forget to take a flashlight. I normally explore first and then eat my snacks after. Make sure you pack back in what ever you pack out. Normally after a good hike I love to stop into Kern River brewery for some delicious beers and a delicious burger. Happy hiking.....

This hike was pretty long. We briefly skimmed the information on this hike before starting and we…read morecould not find the cave on our own. In total, we walked 6 miles (3 miles in and 3 miles out). I definitely suggest bringing lots of water because the hike is draining as a majority of the way in is a steady uphill. There isn't much to see until you get to the "end" of the trail when you reach the small river, but the trek is worth it. We saw a small waterfall and plenty of wildlife. My group stayed at the Fairview Campsite that's right across the street to the trailhead and cooled down by the river afterward. Overall, I would suggest this hike to anyone looking for a challenge, but be prepared before you start!

+ Interesting hiking spot. There isn't one defined trail at Ricardo Campground. Rather, it's more…read morelike a network of paths. Please come and create your own adventure. + The highlight of this hiking area is the badlands that resemble Badlands National Park in South Dakota. Lotta ridges and cliffs formed by millennia of erosion. . 2 restrooms by the trailhead. First hiking parking lot restrooms I've seen without roofs. Has its own pros and cons: + The stench doesn't condense in one room. - But no weather protection. + Easier to communicate for help in case of emergency. - Less privacy. Also, - Hot, dry climate. - No shade. + Nice that there are restrooms throughout the grounds, - but the water fountains aren't working. -- Have to pay $6 digitally to park there. Can't we just slip $6 in physical bills somewhere and call it a day? Better yet, make it $2 or free altogether? lol

If you're looking to camp and you don't want to drive too far from Los Angeles, Red Rock Canyon…read moreState Park is a great option. They have several campgrounds which is first and first serve. There's also several hiking spots in the area, which are less than a mile. There's also a visitor center, which has a lot of information about the park and clean bathroom. Great spot for photos!

Great trip and escape from civilization. Be prepared for no phone reception. Lots of beautiful…read moretrees. Also had a chance to see how much damage was done from the fires. $12 for parking. You can pay using an envelope in a box and detaching part of the slip and putting it in your window or walk about one block down to the gift store and pay with debit. Gift store has water and snacks. Can be pretty populated during the weekend so you don't get a chance to absorb the full nature of quietness and peacefulness but still a great visit. Parking is fairly Limited.

It is a paved trail, technically a hike trail but mentally and physically not. Cool little trail…read morefor city people to learn about the sequoias and history of the trees. Please stay on the trail and pick up all your trash

+ Pleasant trail. Fascinating views of volcanic igneous rocks. They are black, and have various…read moresmooth, round, and porous shapes. . 3/4mi took 1/2hr. + Opportunity to get some scrambling in around the little canyon of vesicular basalt. . Note: the rocks may be smooth or slippery on the feet, yet they're easy to grip by hand. - No shade. + Free, plenty parking. -- Only 1 restroom by the trailhead. Not well maintained. Outta tp. Trash can full. Stinky. - No hand sanitizer or sink. Didn't see any fossils falling, despite the name. v_v loljk

A beautiful and historical place to see and walk. If you're luck you'll see obsidian, but cannot…read moretake out. Leave as is. Highly recommended.