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Kern River Parkway

4.5 (27 reviews)
Open 5:00 am - 10:00 pm

Kern River Parkway Hiking Photos

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Kern River Parkway walk/ride/bike path
Tamara E.

The Kern River Parkway is my favorite place to exercise whenever I visit Bakersfield. I like that it's in walking distance from where I stay and it's easy to use the path for walking, running, riding a bike or roller blading. I like that there are several signs mile marker signs posted in case you're keeping track. The parkway path is paved and there is also an option to run on the unpaved Tuhohi trail run path trails if you want to. In addition to using the parkway to run, walk, bike, or skate, people also visit the parkway to engage in activities such as fishing, play disc golf, playing volleyball or meeting up to do boot camp classes. Although I have used this path numerous times, I was surprised to read the various monuments highlighting the impact of Native Americans in Bakersfield. The only sad thing about the Kern River Parkway is that there is lots of trash on the ground in some areas of the parkway path as well as some areas where you can see that homeless people are camping out in the woods. As long as you avoid these areas, you will have an enjoyable experience at the parkway. Overall, visiting the Kern River Parkway is a great way to stay connect with nature of a regular basis as well as wonderful opportunity to move one's body in a car of ways.

Take a break!
PatrickJ T.

Raise your hand if you like to exercise! Did you raise your hand? No? Neither did I. Unfortunately, exercise is a good thing that we need to do if we want to be or get in shape. The Kern River Parkway provides a great trail to get some much needed exercise. It is approximately 20 miles long. We never bike on the Kern River Parkway unlike the majority of folks. We prefer walking or jogging along a 5 mile stretch of the trail. Of course, we make sure to stay out of the way of the cyclists. I've seen some folks get really pissed off at pedestrians walking along the path close to the Park at Riverwalk. Anyhow, there are multiple points of entry onto the Kern River Parkway. Many parks along the parkway as well. We prefer entering the KRP from the Park at Riverwalk. I think it is the nicest and shadiest area of the Kern River Parkway. Other parts of the trail can get a bit desolate. The west side of the Parkway past Allen Rd. all the way to Enos Lane is not too crowded because there are less folks walking or jogging. Also be on the lookout for bobcats or other wildllife. Heading East past Truxton, one should also keep an eye out for wildlife and vagrants. Best to be riding, walking, or jogging with a friend or two or three. For the most part, though, the Kern River Parkway is terrific! So glad to have it in Kern County!! Thank you to all who help maintain this cool place!!

Mau M.

I love running and I am so glad that Bakersfield has a safe running area with no motor vehicles nor traffic lights in your way. Parkway extends from East to West and I love that it is reasonably accessible no matter which side of town you live in. There would be more people using the area on weekends but there is definitely enough space for social distancing. It could get pretty hot in the summer especially since there is minimal shade from trees so I would suggest waking up a little bit earlier to enjoy the place. I would not suggest using the pathway alone at night since it is not a lit path. But still, I'm rating it a 5 because it gives a good option for people who want to workout away from the the house or outside the gym.

Danger Danger
Franklin M.

It was a very hot day at 105 degrees so it wasn't the best day to take a walk to see the lake. The bike path is in perfect condition but the city needs to add some benches lakeside.

Cyndi H.

I ride my bike several here several times a week. Easy accessibility right off Mohawk and Truxtun. It's a nice central starting point to get to the bike trail. I meet here with my father and away we ride.... Friendly people frequent the trail and it's nice to see active people enjoying the sunshine. There is plenty of parking. Nice, big grass areas and trees. This place needs a name change though. The river has been dry as a bone for at least 10 years. No sign of a river just a dry, barren and sandy river bed. I will try to get more pictures soon. Kern River Parkway, 5 stars.

Stevey P.

Wow, did Bakersfield's community leaders really have it together to preserve the Kern River for its citizens back in the 80s. This park is one of my most favorite things about Bakersfield. It is truly a local gem. It's a claim that most cities can't make - a 20-mile linear park abutting the Kern River running through the middle of the city from one end to the other with a bike path, tons of recreation areas, hundreds of flora and fauna in natural state among other things. The park stretches from Lake Ming in the upper northeast foothills following the river through central Bakersfield, past the oil refineries, office park high-rises, Truxtun Lake, and southwest suburban tract homes before ending at the farmland landscape at Enos Lane in the far southwest. A nice and apt cross-section of Bakersfield if you ask me. I've jogged, biked, rollerbladed, played beach volleyball, BBQed, and fished (among other things, snicker) in this park more times than I can count, and I love it more each and every time.

First 18 holes of disc golf! Fun!

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Ask the Community - Kern River Parkway

I use inline skates, is there lots of rocks along this location or is it primarily smooth?

Smooth!

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Review Highlights - Kern River Parkway

I'm thankful for this parkway and the bike path as it is my weekly getaway from life's pressures.

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The Wildlands Conservancy's Wind Wolves Preserve - Movie night. Disney Cars. Yay!

The Wildlands Conservancy's Wind Wolves Preserve

4.8(80 reviews)
26.3 mi

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 is a beautiful land reserve that is huge! I didn't realize how big it is until we went on a…read moreguided hike yesterday with a ranger. There are so many trails and cool things to see. I have been here twice now, once when it was sunny and beautiful. Yesterday it was foggy and we couldn't really see much, but it was still beautiful and a cool hike. We hiked the Los Osos Trail, we signed up on their website so we got to ride to the trailhead in the rangers car. Which saves time and energy. To get to Los osos trail is a hike itself. The rangers were super knowledgeable and made it a fun experience! I would definitely sign up for a guided hike with them and check this park out! Camping is also free here the informed us and parking is also free! Entry to the park is also free! You can also volunteer or become a docent here

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The Wildlands Conservancy's Wind Wolves Preserve - San Emigdio Campground

San Emigdio Campground

The Wildlands Conservancy's Wind Wolves Preserve - Native American mortar grinding holes in some bedrock!

Native American mortar grinding holes in some bedrock!

The Wildlands Conservancy's Wind Wolves Preserve - Beautiful mural in administration building

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Beautiful mural in administration building

Sequoia National Forest

Sequoia National Forest

4.6(8 reviews)
46.2 mi

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.

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Sequoia National Forest
Sequoia National Forest
Sequoia National Forest

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Packsaddle Trail - Cave is located and top of mountain

Packsaddle Trail

4.7(3 reviews)
50.6 mi

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!

Photos
Packsaddle Trail
Packsaddle Trail - Make sure you turn left when you get to the big rock to head towards the cave.

Make sure you turn left when you get to the big rock to head towards the cave.

Packsaddle Trail - Real or fake? I'm going to guess fake cave painting.

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Real or fake? I'm going to guess fake cave painting.

Kern River Parkway - hiking - Updated May 2026

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