The best walks and hikes in Inyo County

The Golden Canyon and Gower Gulch Loop Trail offers a captivating journey through Death Valley's unique badlands, showcasing a dramatic shift in scenery from wide, golden-walled canyons to rugged gulches. You'll start with a gradual climb through Golden Canyon, navigating minor rock scrambles and enjoying the vibrant geological layers, with the option to detour to the impressive Red Cathedral. The route then ascends towards Manly Beacon for panoramic views before descending through the gravel-filled Gower Gulch, which features narrow sections and rocky dry waterfalls.

This moderate 6.0-mile (9.7 km) hike, with 946 feet (288 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 51 minutes. For the best experience, plan your visit for just after sunrise or right before sunset, when cooler temperatures and optimal lighting enhance the colorful landscape. The trailhead is easily accessible, but always carry ample water, as conditions in Death Valley can be extreme.

What makes this loop truly stand out is its accessibility and the sheer diversity of terrain and color packed into a single outing. It's considered one of the best day hikes in Death Valley National Park, moving from the striking golden hues of the canyon to the more rugged, water-carved features of the gulch. While the Golden Canyon section can be busy, the full loop often provides a more secluded experience, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking iconic desert geology.

The Badlands Loop offers a captivating journey through Death Valley's unique terrain, showcasing a lunar-like landscape of striated barren geology. You'll encounter fantastic views of classic rock formations, including jagged buttes and spires, particularly around the Viewpoint and Zabriskie Point. This easy 2.1-mile (3.4 km) hiking route, with 375 feet (114 metres) of elevation gain, is a perfect introduction to the park's dramatic scenery, taking just under an hour to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trailhead is conveniently located near Zabriskie Point, a well-known spot with parking. Given the consistent lack of shade, it's crucial to bring plenty of water and wear sun protection, especially during warmer periods. For the most comfortable experience, aim to hike in the cooler mornings or late afternoons. No special permits are needed for this accessible trail.

This area is a geological time capsule, revealing millions of years of erosion through its colorful spires and pinnacles. The Badlands Loop is a great way to experience the park's diverse scenery, from these striking formations to distant views of the White River Valley. It's an excellent choice for families or anyone looking for a high-reward, low-effort hike in Badlands National Park.

The Sixty Lake Basin via Onion Valley trail offers a journey into a rugged, high-alpine wonderland, characterized by its numerous crystal-clear lakes scattered among low granite ridges. As you ascend, you'll pass through lush forests and alpine meadows, eventually emerging above the timberline into a landscape dominated by soaring granite peaks and dramatic vistas. The basin itself is often described as a tranquil area, providing a more secluded experience compared to the nearby Rae Lakes Loop, with each lake nestled in its own forested valley.

This difficult route covers 14.0 miles (22.6 km) with a significant 4431 feet (1350 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring around 8 hours and 11 minutes to complete. Planning your visit means securing wilderness permits, which are required year-round and have daily entry quotas from Memorial Day to late September. The Onion Valley trailhead parking information is essential for access, and given the strenuous nature and high passes like Kearsarge Pass, this is best enjoyed as a multi-day backpacking trip.

Situated within the stunning Kings Canyon National Park, the Sixty Lake Basin is renowned for its abundant lakes and the challenging traverse of high Sierra passes. Hikers can expect breathtaking views throughout, including the dramatic King Spur and panoramic vistas back towards the main Sierra Crest. Wildlife such as bears, deer, and pikas can be observed, adding to the pristine wilderness experience of this less-traveled side trip.

Embark on a truly High Sierra adventure with the Kearsarge Pass to Vidette Meadow hike, a difficult 11.9-mile (19.1 km) journey that climbs 3463 feet (1055 metres) over roughly 6 hours and 46 minutes. This route takes you through a dramatic landscape of alpine lakes like Little Pothole Lake and Gilbert Lake, culminating in the breathtaking panoramic views from Kearsarge Pass before descending towards the serene Vidette Meadow. Expect varied terrain, from forested paths to rocky alpine tundra, with the reward of expansive vistas into Kings Canyon National Park.

Given the high altitude and significant elevation changes, good physical fitness and sure-footedness are essential for this trail. The trailhead begins around 9,800 feet, so allow time for acclimatization, and be aware that snowfields can persist into the hiking season. Wilderness permits are often required, especially as this route serves as a vital connection to the John Muir Trail, so plan and secure your permits well in advance.

This trail offers a quintessential High Sierra experience, renowned for its abundance of pristine alpine lakes and some of the most spectacular panoramic vistas in the region. Beyond the natural beauty, you might even spot the legendary Shorty Lovelace's trap line cabin near Vidette Meadow, adding a touch of historical intrigue to your challenging wilderness journey.

The Schulman Grove Discovery Trail offers a truly unique hiking experience, immersing you in the ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. This easy 1.3-mile (2.1 km) loop takes you through a landscape sculpted by millennia, where gnarled, twisted trees stand as silent witnesses to history. You'll encounter both standing and fallen bristlecone pines, some over 3,200 years old, with tightly packed growth rings telling tales of past climates. The path winds along a ridge, offering panoramic views that stretch across the Owens Valley to the majestic Sierra Nevada.

Planning your visit means preparing for high altitude; the entire route is above 10,000 feet, so even the modest 254 feet (77 metres) of elevation gain can feel more strenuous. The trail is well-maintained and starts from the Schulman Grove Visitor Center, where parking is available. Allow about 38 minutes for this hike, and consider an early morning start to enjoy cooler temperatures and clearer views.

What makes this trail truly special is its access to some of the oldest living organisms on Earth. It was here that Dr. Edmund Schulman discovered Pine Alpha, a bristlecone pine over 4,000 years old, though the very oldest trees are not specifically identified for their protection. You'll see numerous bristlecones dating back over four millennia, including the remarkably twisted "Dead Sentry Tree," a favorite for photographers. Interpretive signs along the way provide fascinating insights into these resilient trees and their environment.