• 4-star hikes
• 3 to 5 mile options
• Easy & Moderate | Gain 620 to 1,260 feet
• Novato, CA | San Francisco Region
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A mix of grass and woodland in this Open Space Preserve.
The 1,627-acre Mount Burdell Open Space Preserve in northern Marin County offers rolling hills blanketed in grassland and punctuated by oak woodlands. Set among expansive views that cross the North Bay hills, the preserve's highest terrain also rewards hikers with sweeping vistas that stretch out into San Pablo Bay.
On our springtime visit, we were rewarded with lush green meadows awash with wildflowers and even spotted a coyote moving through the fields, seemingly unfazed by our presence. We also spoke to several birdwatching enthusiasts who consider the park's varied habitats ideal for identifying feathered creatures of all sizes.
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⬤
4★ Eagle Rim Loop
5.0 mi loop, moderate, gain 1,260 ft GPX File ·
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4★ Middle Burdell Loop
3.4 mi loop, easy, gain 620 ft GPX File ·
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P Free parking
We recommend two looping routes that showcase the preserve's character. The first is an easy three and a half mile loop that sticks to wide, easy trails and utilizes the Middle Burdell Fire Road to cut across the park. Expect open meadows and a forested section that passes Hidden Lake.
Our favorite route, however, is a 5-mile clockwise loop that reaches close to the crest of Mount Burdell's ridgeline on the Eagle Rim Trail and descends into a dramatic steep-sided gully on the Old Quarry Trail. Expect a couple of moderately steep sections with loose material, heading down this trail.
Plenty of free roadside parking is available along San Andreas Drive, close to the trailhead marked on our map. Please be mindful of posted signs and respect the privacy of nearby residential neighborhoods.
• 3-star hikes
• 1 to 3 mile options
• Easy | Gain 20 to 40 feet
• Antioch, CA | San Francisco Region
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A relocated movie prop, now pumping water.
Situated on the southern banks of the delta where the Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers meet and flow into the San Francisco Bay, Dow Chemical Company established this wetlands area in 1989, apparently to prevent competitive development near their chemical facility. Today the area is known as the Corteva Wetlands Preserve, though many locals still call it the Dow Wetlands.
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The preserve is home to both freshwater ponds and brackish tidal marshes, home to beavers and otters, and visited many bird species and along this stretch of the Pacific Flyway migration route.
The trails are relatively flat dirt paths suitable for walking and easy cycling, but there's only one single point of access by the Antioch City fishing pier at the preserve's eastern extremes, and there's no established loop trails to explore either the beaver pond to the south, or the delta views to the north.
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⬤ 3★ Antioch Wetlands Preserve
1.1 mi part-loop, easy, gain 20 ft
⬤ 3★ Inland Spur
+ 1.1 mi out & back, easy, gain 20 ft
⬤ 2★ Delta Spur
+ 0.7 mi out & back, easy, gain 0 ft GPX File ·
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P Free parking
We've identified the two spur trails off the main trail backbone. The inland spur leading over the busy railroad tracks to a freshwater beaver pond provides additional pleasant scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities. This spur is well defined, but note that apparent trails leading beyond the route we've plotted do not loop back to the main trail and are cut off by the railroad tracks. There is also a continuous fence along the preserve's southern boundary, meaning this spur trail does not connect to nearby West 10th Street.
The second spur trail identified on our map leads north towards closer delta views. We found this short out-and-back to be overrun with mosquitos and though there are some views at the end of the trail, we were quick to turn around to avoid being lunchmeat for the incessant insect life here.
Wildflowers along the hike in from the marina.
Two viewing platforms have been constructed on the main trail, and several wooden art structures can be found around the property that look like they were built when the preserve was established in the late eighties and quickly forgotten about.
Aside from the wildlife viewing opportunties, the stand-out feature of the park is the functional windmill water pump and wooden water tank. Though the windmill fits in well with its surroundings, it was built for an entirely different purpose - as part of the Alberta, Canada movie set for Clint Eastwood's 1992 film 'Unforgiven'.
• 4-star hike
• 5 mile part-loop
• Moderate | Gain 1,170 feet
• Clayton, CA | San Francisco Region
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The Falls Trail side has the best views.
We follow the wide Donner Canyon Road trail as it traces a route alongside Donner Creek, with views over open meadowland towards the massive Mount Diablo and its sub-peaks. The destination of this journey is not the mountain's summit however, but rather a looping route around the steep sides and impressive views from a canyon on the mountain's northern flanks.
Sharing the wide trail and its modest uphill gradient with occasional mountain bikers, Donner Canyon Road Trail intersects with the two narrow trails that make up the canyon loop. The jury is undecided on whether a clockwise or countercockwise direction is best for experiencing the loop that explores Donner Canyon, but what we know for sure is that the best views are on the eastern, Falls Trail side of the loop. Be sure to glance over your shoulder if you're hiking clockwise for views that combine the steep-sided canyon and distant delta flatland landscapes.
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⬤
4★ Donner Canyon Loop
5.4 mi part-loop, moderate, gain 1,170 ft GPX File ·
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P Free parking
Several streams cascade down the sides of the canyon, across the trails, and towards Donner Creek. These modest waterfalls provide some pleasant views as we hiked around the loop, though we wouldn't regard them as a destination in and of themselves.
Our proposed route begins at the end of Mountaire Parkway - a residential street that, for the moment at least, has fewer parking restrictions than others in the neighborhood. Please obey posted signs and act respectfully around the neighborhood homes to preserve this parking opportunity. Further parking options are also available closer to Marsh Creek Road where you can find the continuation of the creekside trail, though this will require a little extra hiking.
• 4-star hikes
• 8 to 11 mile options
• Moderate & Hard | Gain 2,280 to 3,390 feet
• Clayton, CA | San Francisco Region
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The Mount Diablo Summit Museum on the mountain's peak.
The morning fog blankets the valley below as we ascend, leaving behind the shrouded cities and emerging into brilliant sunshine. This phenomenon perfectly illustrates exactly why Mount Diablo remains a popular destination for Bay Area hikers seeking clarity above the clouds. As the tallest peak visible from San Francisco when low clouds settle over the bay, Mount Diablo offers a reliable escape to sunshine and panoramic views.
The Visitor Center and Museum at Mount Diablo's summit offer refreshments including drinks and ice creams for all visitors, whether they choose to drive to the summit or arrive on foot. The building itself encloses the true summit of Mount Diablo, so be sure to visit the interior if you want to stand on the mountain's highest point.
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⬤
4★ From Rock City
7.8 mi out & back, moderate, gain 2,280 ft GPX File ·
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4★ From Sunset Trailhead
4.5 mi out & back, moderate, gain 1,580 ft GPX File ·
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⬤
4★ Mt Diablo & North Peak from Rock City
11.3 mi out & back, hard, gain 3,390 ft GPX File ·
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$ CA State Park fee
We particularly like this trail in spring, when wildflowers are in full bloom and the weather is temperate. The East Bay's characteristic golden hills transform with patches of purple lupine, orange poppies, and yellow buttercups during this season. As with many East Bay hikes, this trail is best avoided during peak summer temperatures, when the exposed route can become uncomfortably hot.
⬤ From Rock City
The Summit Trail from Rock City starts near the Mount Diablo State Park Boundary at around 1,600 feet of elevation. The trail begins as a service road, eventually becoming a narrow single-track as it gets closer to the summit, but surface conditions remain easy throughout. A modest gradient spread over several miles makes the climb feel moderate at worst.
⬤ From Sunset Trailhead
For those looking for a shorter hike, drive further up Summit Road to the Sunset Trailhead, where you may find a parking spot you could start your hike of the Summit Trail from a higher elevation. Although this shortens the Summit Trail, you still benefit from its best features.
Heading up on the fire road, with little shade.
⬤ Mt Diablo & North Peak from Rock City
Upon sighting the impressive mass of North Peak from the summit of Mount Diablo we decided we had to add it to our hike, and we're glad we did. Our spring hike from the Devil's Elbow trailhead towards North Peak was where we found the best displays of wildflowers by far. Note that the final part of the ascent on North Peak Road is rather steep - we found it harder to come down than go up - so we've categorized this as hard. We recommend high-friction footwear that you trust and a little patience, if you want to hike this peak.
If you would like to hike the trail to North Peak without also hiking the Summit Trail to Mount Diablo, you can park in any allowable space on the side of the road at Devil's Elbow. Expect a 3.5 mile round-trip and 1,100 feet of elevation gain.
The trail narrows, but the views widen as you ascend.
We always advise bringing more water than you think you might need. However, the Summit Trail offers water facilities at two points: along the Sunset Trail and at the summit itself, assuming they are in working condition. Note that in addition to a drinking fountain at the summit, there is also a much better spigot to the left of the entrance to the visitor center, located behind a bench.
Though Mount Diablo State Park advertises an 8:00 AM opening time, the South Gate Road entrance has been known to open early to reduce morning traffic congestion. This can be advantageous for those hoping to start their hike before the day heats up.
• 4-star hikes
• 3 to 4 mile options
• Easy & Moderate | Gain 690 to 810 feet
• Arcadia, CA | Los Angeles Region
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Sturtevant falls on a spring morning.
Sturtevant Falls offers one of the most accessible waterfall hikes in the San Gabriel Mountains, combining natural beauty with historical interest. This popular destination provides an engaging hiking experience suitable for visitors of most ability levels.
The trail begins at the Chantry Flats trailhead, descending into Santa Anita Canyon and following Big Santa Anita Creek gradually uphill to the waterfall. The canyon's remarkably steep sides and mountain peak views make for a dramatic backdrop throughout the hike.
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⬤
4★ Out-And-Back
3.3 mi out & back, easy, gain 690 ft GPX File ·
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⬤
4★ Part-Loop
3.9 mi part loop, moderate, gain 810 ft GPX File ·
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$ Adventure Pass [info]
The main out-and-back trail is mostly easy, with an initial descent down a wide gravel service road that eventually narrows into a double-track pedestrian trail. The only creek crossing is features a rudimentary wooden trail bridge, and the only rocky section of trail can be found as you approach the waterfall itself. This accessibility makes the route popular with families and casual hikers looking for an easier experience.
For those seeking more variety, the part-loop option via the Upper Winter Trail switchbacks downward to the creek along a single track trail, offering a more secluded hiking experience. This route includes several creek crossings that may be difficult during periods of high water flow. This variation on the out-and-back route adds some fun challenges while avoiding a section of the busier main trail.
Main trail, midway along the hike.
The waterfall itself drops about 50 feet into a clear pool, with flow varying seasonally. Spring typically provides the highest water volume, though the falls remain active year-round except during extended drought periods.
A unique feature of this hike is encountering numerous huts and houses built around a century ago scattered throughout the canyon, in varying states of disrepair. These structures date back to the early 1900s when the area was a popular mountain retreat.
One of several weirs along the route of the creek.
Sturtevant Falls is a very popular destination, so its best to arrive early to secure parking. Plan ahead to obtain an Adventure Pass parking permit (or use the National Park Service interagency pass). While Adams Pack Station, located just above and behind the trailhead, sells both Adventure Passes and Annual Passes, availability can vary. However, they do offer a few paid parking spots on their property as an alternative to the main Chantry Flats trailhead lot.
The Adams Pack Station located near the trailhead is a destination in its own right. Established in the 1930s to serve the many cabins in the canyon, the pack station features a cafe offering food, snacks, drinks and desserts which are best enjoyed on their shaded, outdoor deck. There's even a donkey train service that can deliver your belongings and meals for those staying in cabins of the rustic 1893 Sturtevant Camp.
• 5-star hike
• 5 mile loop
• Moderate | Gain 760 feet
• Indio, CA | Southwest US
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Heading counter-clockwise, it's 1.6 miles to the rocky foothills.
The East Indio Hills Badlands sit at the edge of California’s Coachella Valley, where tectonic forces along the San Andreas Fault have uplifted and eroded ancient sediments into a maze of miniature canyons and ridges just minutes from suburban Indio.
Layers of mudstone, siltstone, and sandstone reveal millions of years of ancient lake beds that once filled this valley. Erosion has sculpted these soft sediments into fluted ridges, hoodoos, and sharp-edged gullies that change character with the light. The curious will find much to marvel at here, and those with an interest in geology are likely to have a literal field day.
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⬤
4★ East Indio Hills Badlands Trail
5.0 mi loop, moderate, gain 760 ft GPX File ·
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P Free parking
The five-mile loop begins at the Coachella Canal, where a bridge provides the only crossing point. From there, the trail traverses low sand dunes before reaching a junction that’s easy to miss. Watch for the right turn toward a flat sandy playa that leads into the East Indio Hills.
We hiked counterclockwise, which saved the most interesting geological features for the second half. After taking another right turn and walking parallel to the power lines, you then turn left into the Badlands. Sandy beds continue for a while as rocky outcroppings rise gradually around you. Soon the eastern side of the looping trail begins to climb the rocky hilltops. Views from the top of the East Indio Hills stretch in all directions, providing vistas not only over the curious geology of the Badlands but also beyond, with San Jacinto to the west and, to the north, more distant mountains that mark the boundary with Joshua Tree National Park.
Crossing the Coachella Canal marks the start of your hike.
The western portion of the loop travels through the heart of the Badlands, where the terrain becomes noticeably rockier. Here, the trail winds through narrow valleys carved into soft sedimentary rock; passages that fall somewhere between slot canyons and open washes. A few sections require some rock scrambling and occasional squeezes between the eroded walls.
Though the route is mostly well defined, it is also easy to find yourself in the wrong canyon at times; particularly on the west side of the loop. Using an offline map, such as our own, is recommended to avoid getting off route. Free trailhead parking is available for around twenty vehicles, with additional parking available along adjacent roadways.
⚠ Heat Safety Tips: Expect full sun exposure with no shade in the badlands. Stay safe by checking the forecast and planning to avoid peak heat. Recognize danger signs and turn back when necessary. Wear lightweight, non-cotton clothing and head coverings. Use sunblock and UV lip balm. Bring more water than you think you need, along with salt and electrolyte tablets.
Outbound across dunes. Don't miss the early right turn.
Appreciate the weather-worn sandstone on your journey.
Elevated views of a dramatic faultline landscape.
Strata of the San Andreas Fault.
The trail's west side provides slots and rocky terrain.
• 3-star hike
• 3 mile loop
• Moderate | Gain 760 feet
• Palm Desert, CA | Southwest US
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Mike Schuler Trailhead starts the Bump & Grind Loop.
The Bump & Grind Trail delivers exactly on it's name with an undulating mountainside ascent which thankfully eventually leads into a gentler return journey. This 3-mile loop sits on the hillside above Palm Desert, California providing elevated views over a desert expanse which abuts dramatically against a sprawling suburbia.
Roadside parking is available behind a large commercial strip-mall adjacent to the trailhead along Painters Path Road. This area is equipped with a restroom, drinking water and - unusually - an outdoor remote-control vehicle racing track.
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⬤
3★ Bump & Grind Trail
3.0 mi loop, moderate, gain 760 ft GPX File ·
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P Free parking
Taking the clockwise route means confronting the steepest sections immediately. The trail switchbacks up the exposed hillside, gaining just over 700 feet of elevation on dusty terrain. There's little ceremony here, just consistent climbing through desert scrub while homes, golf courses, and swimming pools sprawl below.
The contrast is stark as you find yourself breathing hard on a barren slope while watching sprinklers water emerald lawns a few hundred feet away. At least the proximity allowed us the convenience of dashing to the strip mall grocery store after this fully exposed hike, to cool off with a packet of frozen peas on the back of the neck and the swift consumption of a box of popsicles.
Attack the steepest climbs first on a clockwise route.
At the top of the main loop, a junction offers a spur to a viewpoint. This additional out-and-back tacks on another mile and 350 feet of elevation gain. The reward is an expanded panorama of the Coachella Valley, though whether it's worth the extra effort depends on your energy reserves and interest in views. Be aware that this upper section closes from February through April to protect bighorn sheep during their mating season.
The descent follows the western side of the loop, where the grade eases considerably. The trail remains exposed with minimal shade, making early morning or late afternoon the most practical choices for avoiding midday heat. Temperatures in the desert can be punishing, and there's no water available on the trail.
San Jacinto foothills one side, strip malls the other.
Switchbacks on the Bump & Grind Trail.
Racing action on the RC track next to the trailhead.
• 4-star hike
• 6 mile out-and-back
• Moderate | Gain 2,310 feet
• Palm Springs, CA | Southwest US
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Looking out from within Maynard Mine.
Maynard Mine Trail is a 6-mile round-trip route in the Indian Canyons, just south of Palm Springs. It follows an old access path to a former tungsten mine perched on the ridge between Andreas and Murray Canyons. The trailhead begins beside the popular short loop through Andreas Canyon.
From the parking area, the route heads west for a quarter mile across relatively flat terrain before climbing steeply up the ridge dividing the two canyons. The ascent passes through strikingly tilted rock formations before reaching the ridgetop, where it drops about half a mile to a narrow razorback ridge. An end-of-trail sign marks the official terminus, but the mine entrance lies roughly 200 feet farther on, just over the north edge of the ridge.
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⬤
4★ Maynard Mine Trail
5.7 mi out & back, moderate, gain 2,310 ft GPX File ·
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$ Per-person park entrance fee
Because the trail climbs 2,300 feet in full sun, an early start is strongly advised. However, the park gates open at 8am, so plan accordingly. There is no shade or water along the route, so hikers should bring more water than expected and supplement with salt or electrolyte tablets. Sunblock is essential.
The steady elevation gain rewards hikers with sweeping views across Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley. On the ascent, a seasonal waterfall in Andreas Canyon may be visible to the right of the trail when water is flowing.
Maynard Mine Trail lies within Indian Canyons, managed by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. The area is open daily from 8am to 5pm, with access limited to Fridays through Sundays from July to September. A per-person entrance fee is required at the gate. For current hours and conditions, check the official Indian Canyons website.
An early morning start to avoid heat on the climb.
Hiking through striking terrain of jagged rock formations.
Approaching the top, looking into the San Jacinto Mountain Range.
• 4-star hike
• 1 mile loop
• Moderate | Gain 170 feet
• Palm Springs, CA | Southwest US
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On the narrow trail between creek and rocky outcropping.
Water flowing through Andreas Creek has carved a narrow oasis into layered sandstone, forming a striking contrast to the surrounding desert. Within this sheltered canyon, dense groves of California fan palms rise above the creek, providing cool shade for hikers exploring the short one-mile loop trail.
Hiking clockwise, the route begins with a half-mile stretch across open desert, offering wide views of the red sandstone walls of Andreas Canyon on one side and the rugged San Jacinto Mountains on the other. At the midpoint, the trail meets Andreas Creek, then follows its shaded banks back toward the start, weaving between the water and the towering canyon cliffs.
Along the creek, California fan palms, mesquite, and cottonwoods thrive, their greenery standing out vividly against the arid hillsides. Keep an eye out for morteros, which are grinding holes worn into the bedrock by generations of Cahuilla people. These were once used to process mesquite beans, palm fruits, and other native foods. The creek’s flow changes with the seasons, typically strongest from winter through late spring, while summer often brings only intermittent surface water.
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⬤
4★ Andreas Canyon Loop
1.0 mi loop, moderate, gain 170 ft GPX File ·
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$ Per-person park entrance fee
Although the loop is short, we rate it as moderate due to a few rocky steps along the exposed section. Those seeking an easier start might prefer hiking counter-clockwise, following the shaded creekside first and deciding later whether to complete the loop or turn back. Trail conditions vary from packed sand to uneven rock.
The trail lies within Indian Canyons, managed by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. The area is open daily from 8am to 5pm, though from July through September access is limited to Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. A per-person entrance fee is collected at the gate. For the latest details, visit the official link at the bottom of this page.
Andreas Canyon from Maynard Mine Trail.
A clockwise loop begins with open desert expanses.
• 5-star hikes
• 2 to 3 mile options
• Easy | Gain 220 to 370 feet
• Palm Springs, CA | Southwest US
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Entering Palm Canyon on the out-and-back route.
Palm Canyon sits in the folds of the San Jacinto Mountains, where thousands of California fan palms cluster along a drainage that holds water when much of the surrounding desert does not.
Two routes lead to the canyon from the Trading Post trailhead. The shorter approach follows the Palm Canyon Trail directly into the canyon bottom, remaining shaded beneath the palms. The alternative route forms a 2.7-mile loop, beginning with the Victor Trail, which climbs over rocky terrain to a ridge offering exposed but elevated canyon views before descending to join Palm Canyon Trail for the return.
Water is not constant in Palm Canyon. The creek often runs dry for extended periods, particularly from late spring through fall. During winter and early spring, following rain, water flows through sections of the drainage. If hiking during wet months, expect possible water crossings, particularly near the start of the Victor Trail.
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⬤
4★ Palm Canyon
2.0 mi out & back, easy, gain 220 ft GPX File ·
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4★ Palm Canyon & Victor Loop
2.7 mi loop, easy, gain 370 ft GPX File ·
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$ Per-person park entrance fee
A side trip to West Fork Falls shouldn't be overlooked, as it lies only a short distance from the trailhead at the Trading Post parking area. The falls flow more consistently than the main canyon, fed by springs in the upper drainage, and are best viewed from December through March.
The trail lies within Indian Canyons, managed by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. The area is open daily from 8am to 5pm, though from July through September access is limited to Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. A per-person entrance fee is collected at the gate. For the latest details, visit the official link at the bottom of this page.
The fun Victor Trail sports elevated canyon views.
• 4-star hikes
• 3 to 4 mile options
• Easy | Gain 110-150m (350-500ft)
• Sandsend, UK | North Yorkshire
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The ruins of the 12th century Mulgrave Castle.
Built in the early 11th century as a defensive residence, Mulgrave Castle was constructed on a narrow ridgeline above the small coastal town of Sandsend, just north of Whitby. Likely built by a Norman landowner with royal connections, the castle's strategic position, surrounded by high curtain walls and protected by a dry moat, reflected its builder's wealth and status. Though declared 'ruinous' by 1308, the castle underwent significant modifications during the late 14th and 15th centuries, transforming it into a comfortable fortified residence that would serve the Mulgrave Estate for centuries to come.
Now in ruins, a larger Mulgrave Castle was built nearby and continues to be a private residence today. Thankfully, the estate owners of allow public access to Mulgrave Woods and the castle site, though public access is limited to dawn to dusk on Wednesdays and weekends only - and there's no public access during the month of May.
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⬤
4★ Circular Route
3.9 mi loop, easy, gain 150m (500ft) GPX File ·
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⬤3★ Out and Back
3.2 mi out & back, easy, gain 110m (350ft) GPX File ·
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$ Paid parking
! Limited access (see article)
There are two hiking options to reach the ruined castle, both of which begin at the East Row parking area that we've marked on our map as 'Trailhead & Parking'. Other paid parking is available in Sandsend and marked on our map, though it's likely that the East Row parking offers the lowest fees. Some free parking spaces may also be available close to the public toilets located at the east side of the town.
The circular hike is our recommended route. The out-and-back trip along East Row Beck is shorter and has less elevation gain, but it offers few of views and features that can be found on the circular route.
We've categorized both of these trails as easy, but with the caveat that there's some modest paved hill-climbing on both routes Additionally, the circular route includes a brief section of road with less than ideal pedestrian accommodations.
Golden sands stretch 2½ miles from Whitby to Sandsend.
On the circular hike, begin by following the paved pedestrian seawall route and continue on the narrow roadside footpath up Lythe Bank. Within a short distance you may be alarmed to see the path disappear at the moment you reach a sharp bend in the road. We recommend continuing along the road - preferably walking in the middle of the road to see and be seen by oncoming road traffic. Thankfully the path resumes after this bend, and there are no other such close encounters with road vehicles. Be sure to glance back over your shoulder for sweeping coastal views toward the famous seaside town of Whitby, crowned unmistakably by its clifftop abbey.
Enter the Mulgrave Estate by crossing the road by the former gatehouse, and follow the road that bifuractes the expanse of grassland leading toward the current estate residence. Take a left turn when you reach the 'private property' signs and head into Mulgrave Woods. The rest of the trail is under tree cover, and almost entirely downhill.
After emerging from a brick-lined tunnel, turn right, then take another right up the embankment steps for your first glimpse of the Mulgrave Castle ruins. Follow the path around the tall stone retaining wall to reach the entrance to the castle and its grounds. To complete the loop and return to the trailhead, descend along the wide unpaved roads that wind gently downhill.
Looking towards Whitby on the hike up Lythe Bank.
Crossing from Lythe Bank into the Mulgrave Estate.
Sheep grazing on the lawns of Mulgrave Estate.
Forested trails eventually tunnel through an embankment.
Another perspective on the Norman Mulgrave Castle.
• 4-star hikes
• 2 to 3 mile options
• Easy & Moderate | Gain 60-200m (200-650ft)
• Thirsk, UK | North Yorkshire
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White Horse views from nearby Kilburn village.
The Kilburn White Horse stretches almost 100 metres across the hillside beneath Sutton Bank, carved in 1857 by schoolmaster John Hodgson and his students from Kilburn village. Unlike England's ancient chalk horses, this feature requires regular applications of limewash to maintain visibility against the dark limestone. Over the generations, the figure has undergone several restorations, most recently receiving a concrete base to reduce weathering.
Our hike from Sutton Bank Centre follows the Cleveland Way along an easy and mostly flat clifftop trail, providing excellent views of the cliff face of Sutton Bank and the green countryside stretching to the horizon. The Yorkshire Gliding Club operates adjacent to the trail, and gliders are frequently launched into the blue from this location, circling the thermals and updrafts from the terrain and occasionally buzzing hikers below as they come in for an almost silent landing.
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⬤
4★ Long Part-Loop
3.4 mi part-loop, moderate, gain 200m (650ft) GPX File ·
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Directions*GPX?
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4★ Kilburn Loop
1.6 mi loop, moderate, gain 120m (400ft) GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
Directions*
⬤
4★ Clifftop Route
3.1 mi out & back, easy, gain 60m (200ft) GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
Directions*
$ *Paid parking
P **Free parking
** Some free parking is available nearby on the top of of the hill at Low Town Bank Road, on both sides of the road. A connecting trail links the parking area with the White Horse trails. Driving Directions to free parking.
Stepping out on the easy clifftop trail from Sutton Bank.
The clifftop trail ends at the top of the White Horse. Viewing the figure from the clifftop trail proves difficult due to the angle and proximity, but a set of steps to the east of the trail leads down to a parking area with a slightly better view. Even this vantage point is too close for a proper perspective on the White Horse, which is best viewed from a distance, such as in the neighboring village of Kilburn, a mile away across the valley floor.
A clockwise loop extends the hike by adding a 1.5-mile section through woodland beneath the escarpment. This lower path connects to the clifftop trail via two sets of steps, creating a circuit of approximately 5 miles. The clockwise direction allows for an easier ascent on the return.
Sutton Bank Centre offers restrooms, a café, information boards, and parking facilities. The site serves as a trailhead for multiple hiking and mountain biking routes, including the Cleveland Way long-distance path, which continues for 109 miles to the coast.
Views of Sutton Bank with countryside stretching beyond.
The clifftop trail follows the edges of the glider club.
Glider gets a cable tow into the sky.
Sutton Bank Centre, the start for hiking and MTB adventures.
• 4-star hike
• 1.4 mile loop
• Easy | Gain 340 feet
• Yucca Valley, CA | Joshua Tree
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Varied terrain and vegetation in Joshua Tree's NW corner.
Located next to the Black Rock Campground within the northwestern boundary of Joshua Tree National Park, this picturesque loop combines the High View Nature Trail with a section of the West Side Loop Trail to showcase a variety of desert scenery and leads to some spectacular views.
Expect a mostly easy hike on this dusty desert trail route. Even the climb up to the High View Point is relatively easy, thanks to the trail builders' evenly spaced steps carved into the hillside. You could also reach this view on an out-and-back route, but our preferred looping route is roughly equal in terms of mileage and elevation gain and provides more variety.
This northwest corner of Joshua Tree National Park sits at a higher elevation than the main visitor areas along Park Boulevard, resulting in cooler temperatures, a wider variety of flora and less populated trails.
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4★ High View Loop
1.4 mi loop, easy, gain 340 ft GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
DirectionsGPX?
$ NPS entrance fee
As this trail is located within Joshua Tree National Park, a valid entrance pass is required to visit. The nearest place to purchase a park pass is the Black Rock Nature Center located within the campground. Other sources may claim that a park pass is not required at this location, but that's a technicality based on observations that the pass apparently doesn't need to be displayed in vehicles at this trailhead, and rangers do not request to see your pass on the trail.
⚠ Heat Safety Tips: Expect full sun exposure with minimal shade in this terrain. Stay safe by checking the forecast and planning to avoid peak heat. Recognize danger signs and turn back when necessary. Wear lightweight, non-cotton clothing and head coverings. Use sunblock and UV lip balm. Bring more water than you think you need, along with salt and electrolyte tablets.
• 5-star hikes
• 7 to 8 mile options
• Moderate | Gain 1,200 to 1,700 feet
• Yucca Valley, CA | Joshua Tree
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Varied hiking through deserts and up mountains on Panorama Loop.
The path climbs from desert campground to mountain ridge, threading through narrow canyons and vegetation zones that shift with elevation. This loop, just within the northwestern boundary of Joshua Tree National Park, combines flat Joshua tree woodland, canyon narrows, ridgeline traverses, and mountainous peaks rising beyond the arid landscape.
The hike begins at the entrance to Black Rock Canyon Campground. The initial section follows an almost unnoticeable uphill grade along a desert path heading southwest. Occasional shallow sandy patches on the trail pose no real obstacle.
The trail passes through dense Joshua tree groves while low mountains frame the surrounding landscape before reaching the Panorama Loop junction after 1.9 miles. Taking the loop clockwise leads through Black Rock Canyon, where rock formations line the narrow canyon walls.
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5★ Panorama Loop
6.6 mi part-loop, moderate, gain 1,200 ft GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
DirectionsGPX?
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5★ Panorama Loop & Warren Point
8.0 mi part-loop, moderate, gain 1,700 ft GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
Directions
$ NPS entrance fee
The Panorama Loop trail gradually climbs through transitional vegetation zones where Joshua trees give way to pinyon pines and junipers. A set of switchbacks along a narrow, rocky ridge marks the most significant climb of the route, though it remains manageable for hikers of almost any fitness level.
The trail reaches its highest point at Panorama Peak (5,195 ft) and continues along the ridgeline. The massive San Bernardino Mountains reveal themselves to the west, sometimes snow-capped, while views stretch across the broad valley to the northeast. This exposed ridge section contrasts the arid desert terrain with distant mountain ranges, particularly San Gorgonio Mountain and Mount San Jacinto.
The descent from the ridge features rocky switchbacks into another valley where pine trees and oaks provide intermittent shade. Joshua trees become more prevalent again as the trail drops back toward Black Rock Canyon, closing the loop before retracing the initial stretch to the trailhead. A side trip to Warren Peak provides an additional opportunity for peakbaggers, offering even more expansive panoramic views.
A mile along the flat Black Rock Canyon Trail.
This northwest corner of Joshua Tree National Park sits at a higher elevation than the main visitor areas along Park Boulevard, resulting in cooler temperatures, a wider variety of flora and less populated trails.
As this trail is located within Joshua Tree National Park, a valid entrance pass is required to visit. The nearest place to purchase a park pass is the Black Rock Nature Center located within the campground. Other sources may claim that a park pass is not required at this location, but that's a technicality based on observations that the pass apparently doesn't need to be displayed in vehicles at this trailhead, and rangers do not request to see your pass on the trail.
⚠ Heat Safety Tips: Expect full sun exposure with minimal shade in this terrain. Stay safe by checking the forecast and planning to avoid peak heat. Recognize danger signs and turn back when necessary. Wear lightweight, non-cotton clothing and head coverings. Use sunblock and UV lip balm. Bring more water than you think you need, along with salt and electrolyte tablets.
• 5-star hikes
• 7 to 9 mile options
• Moderate | Gain 1,030 to 1,230 feet
• Twentynine Palms, CA | Joshua Tree
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The out-and-back trip along the Lost Palms Oasis Trail leads through open desert terrain to a spectacular canyon overlook and continues with a downhill scramble to a secluded, sheltered oasis of tall green palm trees and abundant spiky yucca plants. An optional side trip to Mastodon Peak along with a visit to a mine site is also available on the return journey.
Starting from the Cottonwood Spring Trailhead, the route heads southeast with a generally straight trajectory. The path deviates around rock formations and follows a wash where historic drainage patterns dictate its course. The terrain provides unobstructed views across desert scrubland. Creosote bush, ocotillo, and cholla cactus populate the landscape. Wildlife appearances are sporadic—quail may scurry across your path, and you might spot lizards on rocks during warmer hours.
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5★ Lost Palms Oasis Trail
7.4 mi out & back, moderate, gain 1030 ft GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
DirectionsGPX?
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5★ Lost Palms Oasis & Mastodon Peak
8.5 mi part-loop, moderate, gain 1230 ft GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
Directions
$ NPS entrance fee
The Lost Palms Oasis Trail ends with spectacular views down into rocky Munsen Canyon, with distant mountains framing the horizon. Reaching Lost Palms Oasis requires continuing beyond the formal trail on a looping route that involves scrambling down and back up rocky, loose terrain. We went counter-clockwise, but it is likely no more difficult in the other direction.
If you're in the mood to extend your hike on your return leg, consider taking a right fork up the Mastodon Peak Trail. This adds an additional mile and about 200 more feet of elevation but offers broad views from a quick summit scramble and an opportunity to visit a mine site as you loop back to the trailhead.
⚠ Heat Safety Tips: Shade is extremely limited on this trail. Stay safe in hot weather by knowing the forecast and planning to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Recognize danger signs and turn back when necessary. Wear lightweight, non-cotton clothing and head coverings. Use sunblock and UV lip balm. Bring more water than you think you need, coupled with salt and electrolyte tablets.
• 4-star hike
• 3 mile loop
• Moderate | Gain 410 feet
• Twentynine Palms, CA | Joshua Tree
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Age is not a barrier to some hiking Mastodon Peak.
Desert scrubland, summit views stretching to the Salton Sea, and mine ruins perched on a ridgeline. The Mastodon Peak Loop delivers these elements across a short 2.6-mile trail in Joshua Tree's southern region.
The route begins at the Cottonwood Spring Trailhead, where hikers head counter-clockwise along the Lost Palms Oasis Trail through flat desert scrubland. Creosote bush, ocotillo, and cholla cactus populate the landscape as the hard-packed trail ascends gradually eastward for 0.7 miles to the first junction.
Turning left onto the Mastodon Peak Trail, the route transitions from open terrain into bouldered sections characteristic of the park. The climb up Mastodon Peak's flank proves manageable due to occasional steps carved directly into the sandstone. Combined with some switchbacks, the trail to the saddle is more accessible than it may first appear.
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4★ Mastodon Peak Loop
2.5 mi loop, moderate, gain 410 ft GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
DirectionsGPX?
$ NPS entrance fee
Mastodon Peak's flat saddle provides hikers with expansive views across the southern portions of Joshua Tree National Park. The Eagle Mountains rise to the east, the Cottonwood Mountains stretch to the west, and on clear days, the Salton Sea appears to the south. Those who continue to the summit follow a short spur trail that requires a modest amount of rock scrambling. Early explorers apparently named the formation for its resemblance to a mastodon's head and trunk, though it can be difficult to see the likeness today.
Just past the summit junction, the loop trail passes the remains of Mastodon Mine. This gold mine was originally established in the 1930s, though like most of the many abandoned mines in the park, it never achieved any real commercial success. The main shaft descends 45 feet along three parallel quartz veins, but the shaft is unfortunately out of reach to visitors due to safety concerns.
The short climb follows a flat section through the valley floor.
The return portion of the loop descends west through a series of desert washes. These sandy sections are easier downhill than up, making the counter-clockwise direction the more practical choice. The trail crosses and follows multiple drainages, with occasional markers guiding hikers through wash crossings. Near the end of the trail, non-native eucalyptus trees mark the remains of the former Winona Mill site, which processed ore during the 1930s and 1940s. A final stretch of trail parallels Cottonwood Spring Road back to the trailhead.
⚠ Heat Safety Tips: Shade is extremely limited on this trail. Stay safe in hot weather by knowing the forecast and planning to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Recognize danger signs and turn back when necessary. Wear lightweight, non-cotton clothing and head coverings. Use sunblock and UV lip balm. Bring more water than you think you need, coupled with salt and electrolyte tablets.
• 4-star hike
• 2 mile out-and-back
• Easy | Gain 100 feet
• Twentynine Palms, CA | Joshua Tree
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Photo opportunists at Arch Rock.
Explore two unique features arising from Joshua Tree’s signature granite outcroppings along the route of the Arch Rock Nature Trail. The first you’ll reach is Arch Rock, a 30-foot natural opening carved through weathered stone. The second is Heart Rock, a boulder with a distinct heart shape that has inspired countless Instagram selfies. Between them lies a landscape of jumbled rock formations, desert vegetation, and interpretive signs explaining the park’s geology.
Despite its popularity, this trail is still worth a visit. Begin at the Arch Rock Nature Trail parking area and hike across flat desert lined with cholla cacti, Joshua trees, and yucca plants. Arch Rock requires some modest scrambling for a close approach.
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4★ Arch Rock Nature Trail
1.6 mi out & back, easy, gain 100 ft GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
DirectionsGPX?
$ NPS entrance fee
Heart Rock is located on a spur trail heading further east along terrain that becomes rockier than the main trail. The ten-foot-tall granite rock that resembles a heart stands among several other boulders with less pronounced shapes. Heart Rock is usually easy to find, particularly on busy days when you may see a line of people waiting for their turn for a photo opportunity.
There is no shade along the Arch Rock Nature Trail. Though the trail is relatively short, it’s still important to take precautions to avoid heat and sun exposure, including bringing more water than you think you need, along with lightweight clothing and head coverings, sunblock, and optional UV lip balm.
• 4-star hike
• 3 mile out-and-back
• Moderate | Gain 620 feet
• Twentynine Palms, CA | Joshua Tree
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Oasis Palms looking north towards desert plains.
Located just within the northern boundary of Joshua Tree National Park, the Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail leads visitors to one of the park's hidden refuges - an oasis of California fan palm trees and other succulent desert flora tucked into a canyon where hummingbirds dart among the greenery and quail scatter across the ground.
This three-mile out-and-back trail climbs just under 400 feet through exposed terrain before descending to the oasis. The hard-packed desert trail surface is on the easy side of moderate and suitable for most visitors. Despite the park's name, no Joshua trees appear along this route. Instead, the path traverses terrain dotted with barrel cacti, creosote bush, and yucca. After crossing a ridge with views toward the sprawling town known as Twentynine Palms, hikers descend into the canyon where the oasis comes into view.
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4★ Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail
3.1 mi out & back, moderate, gain 620 ft GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
DirectionsGPX?
$ NPS entrance fee
! Summer closures (see official link)
The fan palms cluster around pools fed by spring water at the junction of two canyon forks, and the oasis provides critical habitat and water for wildlife. This includes bighorn sheep, which rely on the spring particularly during summer months.
Visitors must follow posted signs and not enter the oasis itself, as this sensitive biological area requires protection to maintain its function as a water source for desert wildlife. The trail ends at a designated viewing area where the palms and surrounding ecosystem can be observed without disturbing the habitat.
Approaching the oasis at the end of the 1½ mile trail.
The Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail is located within Joshua Tree National Park and a valid entrance pass is required to visit. The nearest places to purchase a pass are the Joshua Tree city Visitor Center [directions] if approaching from the west, or the Twentyninepalms Visitor Center [directions] when approaching from the east. Other sources may claim that a park pass is not required at this location, but that's a technicality based on observations that the pass apparently doesn't need to be displayed in vehicles at this trailhead, and a rangers do not request to see your pass on the trail.
⚠ Heat Safety Tips: Expect full sun exposure with no shade in this terrain. Stay safe by checking the forecast and planning to avoid peak heat. Recognize danger signs and turn back when necessary. Wear lightweight, non-cotton clothing and head coverings. Use sunblock and UV lip balm. Bring more water than you think you need, along with salt and electrolyte tablets.
• 3-star hike
• 1 mile loop
• Easy | Gain 70 feet
• Hopkinton, NH | Merrimack Region
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This trail sign actualy points away from the looping trail.
The Little Tooky Trail is a one-mile loop on the 48-acre Rollins property, accessed from a small parking area 0.2 miles down Little Tooky Road. The trail was built in 2019 through a collaboration between the Hopkinton Conservation Commission and Boy Scout Troop 77.
For approximately one-third of its length, the trail follows the wide railbed of the historic Concord-Claremont Railroad. This section offers level, easy walking on what remains of the 19th-century rail corridor. The flat grade and open character of the former railroad bed contrast sharply with the remainder of the route. For information about more trails along this old railbed, see the rail trail link in the 'Trailspoting Nearby' section at the foot of this page.
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3★ Little Tooky Trail
1.1 mi loop, easy, gain 70 ft GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
DirectionsGPX?
P Free parking
The rest of the trail transitions to narrow, single-track paths that wind through oak-pine forest. These woodland sections feel more remote and require attention to footing. Evidence of the property's agricultural past appears throughout—stone walls mark old property boundaries, and recent logging operations have created openings where raspberries and blueberries grow.
The trail is suitable for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Parking at the trailhead accommodates several vehicles. From Contoocook Village, the trail can be accessed via a connector route that begins at Riverway Park and passes through Contoocook Cemetery before reaching the Little Tooky Road trailhead.
• 4-star hike
• 4 mile loop
• Easy | Gain 360 feet
• Marlborough, MA | Northeast Region
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Flowers and reflections by the pond's outlet.
The trailhead on Broadmeadow Street opens onto a network where horses, bikes, and boots share the same dirt. Ahead, Beebe Pond sits quietly in the trees, anchoring a loop through Callahan State Park's northern woods.
The clockwise loop from the Broadmeadow Street trailhead covers approximately four miles through mixed-use terrain. This route combines sections of the Backpacker Trail, Fisher Trail, Jabberwocky Trail, and Bear Paw Trail, circling Beebe Pond through a predominantly forested landscape.
The soundscape of Callahan State Park features cricket choruses, birdsong, and occasionally the sounds of other trail users. In addition to foot traffic, these trails are occasionally shared by horseback riders and mountain bikers; though on our Saturday morning visit to the park, we saw only one horse and no mountain bikers at all.
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4★ Beebe Pond Loop
3.6 mi out & back, moderate, gain 360 ft GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
DirectionsGPX?
P Free parking
A forest canopy provides shade for most of the route. Oaks, maples, and pines create overhead coverage that keeps the trails cooler during summer months. The understory varies between open and dense, with seasonal changes affecting visibility and undergrowth thickness. One section passes through grassland where tick activity peaks during warm months, particularly May through July. Alternative trail connections exist for those who wish to bypass this exposure.
Beebe Pond serves as the loop's focal point. The trail follows portions of its shoreline, offering water views through the trees. A short spur trail branches east from the pond area toward Gibbs Mountain, though the actual summit of this modest feature is on private property and is unfortunately inaccessible to the public.
Experience a mostly forested trail on this loop.
North end of Beebe Pond viewed through the trees.
The north end of the park encircles a horse ranch.
Avoiding long grasses and ticks is possible on adjacent trails.
• 3-star hikes
• 3 to 4 mile options
• Easy | Gain 730 to 1,140 feet
• Warwick, MA | Pioneer Valley
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MA Fire Towers Climb the tower for excellent northern Massachusetts scenery.
Warwick Fire Tower rises above the trees on Mount Grace’s 1,617-foot-high summit, providing a commanding vantage point for fire-watchers who still use the tower as part of a statewide wildfire early warning system. The current steel structure was built in 1939, replacing an earlier wooden tower that was destroyed by the devastating 1938 Hurricane.
Though the cabin at the top is usually locked and inaccessible to the public, the tower itself remains open for climbing and offers panoramic 360-degree views across central Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire. From the top, notable landmarks include Mount Monadnock to the northeast and Mount Snow on the northwestern horizon, both of which are prominent features in the region’s mountainous landscape.
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3★ Loop Route
4.2 mi loop, easy, gain 1,140 ft GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
DirectionsGPX?
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3★ Out & Back
2.7 mi out & back, easy, gain 730 ft GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
Directions
P Free parking
Mount Grace is a popular destination for hikers seeking a moderately challenging trek with rewarding views. The mountain offers two main routes from the Olson Field parking area off Route 78, each providing a different experience of the forested terrain. The shorter out-and-back route covers 2.7 miles and follows a forested single-track trail that connects to a service road leading to the summit. This trail is well-marked and shaded by a mix of hardwoods and evergreens, making it a pleasant option for a quick ascent.
The longer loop spans 4.2 miles and includes a bit more elevation gain, making it a slightly more strenuous option. This extended route offers few additional features or scenic highlights beyond the summit itself. Terrain on both trails is generally easy to moderate, with well-maintained paths and gradual inclines. The only real challenge for unseasoned hikers may be the amount of elevation gain, particularly on the steeper sections near the summit.
• 4-star hike
• 3 mile part-loop
• Easy | Gain 1,050 feet
• Shelburne Falls, MA | Pioneer Valley
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MA Fire Towers The 1909 tower is still in active service.
Two entwined trails lead up the western flanks of Massaemett Mountain from the residential Halligan Avenue to the fire lookout tower that crowns its summit. One of only two stone towers in the state, the Shelburne Fire Tower went into service in 1911, which, according to the Forest Fire Lookout Association, makes it not only be the oldest continually active lookout tower in Massachusetts, but possibly the oldest in the United States.
The older white-blazed Tower Trail takes the most direct route through the forested slopes, while a recently constructed, yellow-blazed Big Tree Trail provides an alternative route with a slightly more forgiving gradient. We recommend hiking up the Tower Trail and returning on the Big Tree Trail for the most variety and the least impactful downhill descent. The Big Tree Trail is also graced with several interpretive signs, including those that challenge hikers to identify tree species as they pass by.
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4★ Tower Trail Loop
2.8 mi part-loop; easy, gain 1,050 ft GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
DirectionsGPX?
P Free parking
We've categorized this trail as easy, as most of the terrain is relatively forgiving, with only a few rocky steps near the summit that are mildly challenging during the descent.
Although the wooden cabin situated unceremoniously on top of the stone tower is locked when not in use, members of the public are still free to climb the 72 spiral step to the top. Several windows built into the tower provide light during your climb and offer views above the trees. Scenes from the tower windows include the Berkshires and Taconic Mountains to the west, the Green Mountains of Vermont to the north, Mount Wachusett to the east, and the Holyoke Range to the south.
Well-signed trails intertwine as they ascend.
A limited amount of roadside parking is available on Halligan Avenue, which is a quiet residential street. Please be mindful to avoid disturbing nearby homes, observe all posted signs, and be sure not to block the street when parking there.
The tower is also accessible from Mass Audubon's High Ledges Wildlife Sanctuary on a hike of five miles and 940 feet of elevation gain. This alternate route offers even more variety and views from the high ledges. We've provided a couple of links to this hike at the foot of the page, in case you're interested in checking it out.
Mostly easy trail, but it's still a 1,000-foot climb.
• 4-star hike
• 5 mile loop
• Easy | Gain 290 feet
• Royalston, MA | Central Region
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The highest of the three tiers of Doane's Falls.
Tully Lake did not exist before the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dammed the East Branch of the Tully River between 1947 and 1949. The dam became operational during the New Year's Flood of 1949 even before construction finished. The reservoir now controls flooding in the Millers River and Connecticut River valleys, holding back water that once swept through Athol and other downstream communities during spring floods and hurricanes.
This loop trail circles this engineered lake through forest that has regrown along its edges. Yellow blazes mark the route, which can begin from any of the marked trailheads or parking areas, heading in either a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction, as we have no particular preference on this loop.
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4★ Tully Lake Loop
4.5 mi loop, easy, gain 290 ft GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
DirectionsGPX?
P Free parking
The terrain mostly comprises of single-track forested trail, with occasional creek crossings - only some of which are furnished with wooden footbridges and boardwalks. Sections of quiet asphalt road connect segments of the loop trail at times. We've categorized Tully Lake Loop as easy, though there may be occasional slippery rocks, particularly at the creek crossings, and a small amount of hill climbing close to Doane's Falls. After the wettest of weather, sections of trails can also become waterlogged.
At Doane's Falls, the Lawrence Brook plunges over a series of three dramatic cascades, each framed by moss-covered rocks and shaded by dense hardwood forest. The trail on the north side of the brook provides several great vantage point from which to appreciate the waterfalls. Another popular hike in this area combines Doane's Falls with a trek to Spirit Falls on a 4.2 mile part-loop - we've linked to AllTrails at the foot of the page, to give you an additional hiking option, since we haven't explored this route yet.
Less picturesque at low levels, but easier trails.
Doane's Falls has several cascades to enjoy.
Mostly easy trails, but watch out for creek crossings.
• 4-star hikes
• 4 mile loop
• Moderate | Gain 370 feet
• Hollis, NH | Merrimack Region
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Beaver Brook from the Pond Loop Trail.
Our chosen route through the Beaver Brook Association's protected lands connects four distinct trails across terrain that shifts from pond-side serenity to rocky scrambles through wooded ridges.
The Beaver Brook Association spans lands between Hollis and Brookline in Southern New Hampshire, offering over 35 miles of trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. We selected a moderate route that follows the banks of Beaver Brook before ascending into the northern wooded expanses to traverse the Rocky Ridge Trail and discover the area's waterfall.
The Pond Loop Trail provides the route's most scenic views, offering perspectives across still water that reflect the surrounding forest canopy. From here, we transition onto the Hidden Ponds Trail, which guides us deeper into the park's northern expanse. The Hatfield Trail leads us back into the park, and towards the park's waterfall. While modest in scale, this cascade occupies a secluded woodland setting that creates an intimate natural encounter.
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4★ Pond Loop & Rocky Ridge
4.4 mi loop, moderate, gain 370 ft GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
DirectionsGPX?
P Free parking
Rocky Ridge Trail requires careful footing as we navigate across uneven stone surfaces and root systems. This section elevates the route's difficulty to moderate, though numerous other trails throughout the park maintain easier classifications. The terrain demands attention, but rewards hikers with varied topography and forest perspectives.
Multiple trailheads and parking areas provide access to the property. We've identified a Proctor Hill Road parking area which offering convenient access to the pond, just a short distance away.
• 5-star hikes
• 7 to 10 mile options
• Moderate | Gain 2,400 to 3,210 feet
• Conway, NH | White Mountains
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Mount Chocorua's superlative summit.
The rocky pyramid of Mount Chocorua punctuates the southern Sandwich Range, its bare summit visible for miles across New Hampshire's Lakes Region and beyond. Named for a Pequawket chief, this peak draws hikers to its exposed granite slopes and offers views of grand panoramic landscapes.
The mountain sits within the White Mountain National Forest and most approaches involve steady climbing through northern hardwood forests that transition to spruce and fir at higher elevations. The terrain becomes increasingly rocky as you gain altitude. The upper mountain is characterized by open ledges and slabs. The treeline arrives lower here than on many neighboring peaks, and the final approach to the summit cone involves some scrambling over bare rock.
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5★ Piper-Weetamoo Loop
8.5 mi loop, moderate, gain 2,730 ft GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
Directions*GPX?
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Champney Falls Trail [Y]
7.6 mi out & back, gain 2,400 ft GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
Directions*
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Carter Ledge & Middle Sister Loop [Y]
9.5 mi loop, gain 3,210 ft GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
Directions**
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Brook & Liberty Trails [Y]
6.9 mi loop, gain 2,580 ft GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
Directions**
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Hammond Trail [Y]
7.5 mi out & back, gain 2,870 ft GPX File ·
AllTrails ·
Directions**
$ *Paid parking
P **Free parking
Y Yet to review
So far we've only hiked a looping route up Piper Trail, returning on a section of Liberty Trail that connects to Weetamoo Trail that completes the loop. Thanks to Open Street Map we're able to share maps and GPX navigation files for all routes to the summit, and we plan to expand this article as we explore the rest of them.
If you're pursuing the 52 With-A-View Challenge, any trail to the summit of Mount Chocorua qualifies. Just be sure to include Middle Sister as well, since it's also on the list. For those tackling New Hampshire's Terrifying 25, note that the Carter Ledge Trail must be completed in its entirety, starting from the Carter Ledge Trailhead, to meet the challenge requirements. We have links to both challenges at the foot of this page.
Peak previews from the road, across Chocorua Lake.
⬤ Piper-Weetamoo Loop
The Piper Trail ascends steadily through cover of forest before steepening over rocky terrain toward treeline. Breaking out from the tree-line, Piper Trail's exposed ledges provide superb southerly vistas to enjoy as you continue to the summit. Descending via Liberty Trail, you pass the Jim Liberty cabin site, where once stood a historic summit hotel hosting Victorian-era tourists. The trail drops steeply before joining Hammond Trail's gentler grade through mixed forest. Finally, Weetamoo Trail winds back to the trailhead.
Terrain is generally easy or moderate, though rocky sections on Piper's ledges and Chocorua's summit can be particularly challenging in wet and icy conditions. There's also a section of Liberty Trail close to the summit that required us to butt-scoot our way down.
Expect shaded, forest trails until the higher elevations.
Piper Trailhead is operated by White Mountain National Forest which requires a cash payment, placed in an envelope and deposited in an iron ranger. Interagency passes are also accepted, such as the White Mountain Annual Pass and the National Parks Pass. The trailhead has a large parking lot, though this can still fill up quickly on weekends and holidays.
For an additional 0.9 miles and about 300 feet of elevation gain, you can add an out-and-back trip across the ridgeline to Middle Sister's summit where you'll find the remains of an old stone fire tower, and excellent views of Mount Chocorua.
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