The best walks and hikes around Lake Isabella
4.3
(7)
70
hikers
6
hikes
Hiking around Lake Isabella offers diverse landscapes within the southern Sierra Nevada mountains, characterized by dusty peaks and a high-elevation environment. The region encompasses parts of the Sequoia National Forest, providing lush forest trails and varied ecosystems. The Kern River, a "Wild and Scenic" river, flows through the area, creating scenic canyons and feeding the expansive Lake Isabella Reservoir. This combination of mountainous terrain, forest, and significant waterways defines the hiking experience.
Best hiking trails around Lake Isabella
- The most popular hiking route is Coso Mine Loop Trail, a 1.1 miles (1.7 km) trail that takes about 30 minutes to complete, offering a glimpse into historical mining areas.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Unal Trail, an easy 3.0 miles (4.9 km) path. This route winds through natural landscapes, providing a longer, accessible experience.
- Local hikers also love the Isabella Peak and Coso Mine Loop Trail, a 2.5 miles (4.0 km) trail leading through varied terrain with potential views, often completed in about 1 hour 10 minutes.
- Hiking around Lake Isabella is defined by Sierra Nevada mountain backdrops, lush forest paths, and views of the Kern River and Lake Isabella. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to more extended paths.
- The routes in Lake Isabella are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 80 hikers have used komoot to explore Lake Isabella's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.2
(5)
16
hikers
1.70km
00:32
80m
60m
The Coso Mine Loop Trail offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making it a popular choice for a quick outdoor escape. As you traverse the rocky terrain, you'll be treated to sweeping, 360-degree views of Lake Isabella and the surrounding mountains, with benches strategically placed at viewpoints like the Lake Isabella Overlook for you to pause and soak it all in. This easy 1.1-mile (1.7 km) loop, with its 253 feet (77 metres) of elevation gain, is a perfect way to experience the region's scenery in about 32 minutes.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is easily accessible and open year-round for hiking and mountain biking. You'll find parking available right at the trailhead, conveniently situated near the French Gulch and Hungry Gulch campgrounds. Given that much of the trail is exposed, especially during hotter periods, bringing ample water is a smart move. This route is also known for being family-friendly and dog-friendly, so it's a great option for a group outing.
One of the unique features of this trail is its historical connection to the gold rush era, as it passes by the historic Coso Mine. While the mine entrance is now safely secured, it serves an important ecological role as a habitat for local bats, adding an interesting layer to your hike. The Coso Mine Loop Trail's difficulty nuances make it suitable for beginners, offering a gentle introduction to the area's trails while still providing rewarding vistas.
4.5
(2)
14
hikers
4.89km
01:30
190m
160m
The Unal Trail offers a refreshing and accessible hiking experience through a vibrant forest in the Sequoia National Forest. This easy 3.0-mile (4.9 km) loop, with its 638 feet (195 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 29 minutes to complete. You'll wander through a mix of Ponderosa, Sugar Pine, and Incense Cedar, enjoying the fresh outdoor scents before reaching the summit for expansive northern views of the High Sierra, including distant Mt. Whitney.
Located at Greenhorn Summit in Alta Sierra, the trailhead has convenient parking near the Forest Service station. While it's a great option for escaping summer heat due to its abundant shade, be prepared for potential snow, mud, and slippery conditions if you visit in winter or early spring. No permits are typically needed for this family-friendly and dog-friendly route.
Beyond its scenic beauty, the Unal Trail is an interpretive route, featuring numbered signposts that tell the story of the Tübatulabal people, whose word for bear, "Unal," gives the trail its name. This historical context, combined with the trail's resilience after the 2021 French Fire, makes it a unique and meaningful outing in the region.
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32
hikers
3.97km
01:09
110m
110m
The Isabella Peak and Coso Mine Loop Trail offers a delightful journey through diverse terrain, blending natural beauty with a touch of history. You'll start with some welcome forest shade before the path opens up, revealing panoramic vistas of Lake Isabella and the surrounding mountains from viewpoints like Isabella Peak. The route is generally easy, but expect some moderate inclines and rocky sections that add a bit of challenge to the 2.5-mile (4.0 km) loop, which features 351 feet (107 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 9 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trailhead is easily accessible near the French Gulch and Hungry Gulch campgrounds, where you can find parking, restrooms, and water. Since much of the trail is exposed to the sun, especially as you climb, remember to bring ample water. This trail is open year-round, making it a flexible choice for a quick outing, and it's also family-friendly and allows dogs on leash.
Beyond the stunning views, the trail offers a glimpse into the region's past by passing the historic Coso Mine, a relic from the gold rush era that now serves as a bat habitat. This blend of scenic overlooks, like the Lake Isabella Overlook, and historical points of interest makes the Isabella Peak and Coso Mine Loop Trail a rewarding experience for those seeking an easy yet engaging hike near Lake Isabella.
4
hikers
764m
00:16
50m
50m
Hike a short, steep 0.5-mile trail to Remington Hot Springs, natural pools overlooking the Kern River in Sequoia National Forest.
4.5
(2)
14
hikers
5.51km
01:41
200m
200m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Tips from the Community
The trail ends here at this fantastic vantage point, offering incredible views of the lake and the southern Sierra Mountains. There is another bench here, which is a great place to relax, have a snack, and take some great photos before heading back.
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This is the first overlook along the trail with direct views of the water. There is a nice bench here, perfect for a break to take in the scenery.
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Coso Mine is an old Lake Isabella mine, dating back to the gold rush era, and now serves as a human-made habitat for bats. There is a small opening into a tunnel with metal bars, which is the entrance point for the mine. The bars have been specifically constructed to dissuade humans from entering the area, which is now home to the local bats, a crucial component of the ecosystem.
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If you've made it to Greenhorn Summit you've earned a break! The mountains around aren't forgiving and they'll test even the sturdiest of legs. Unfortunately, the area was hit by wildfire recently, so you will see evidence of this as you ride.
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Remington Hot Springs is a great treat for the weekend or a relaxing evening. The hot springs are pooled up just next to the rushing Kern River. Since the area is quite accessible, solitude is very unlikely.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Lake Isabella?
There are 6 hiking trails available around Lake Isabella, all of which are rated as easy. These routes offer a great way to explore the diverse landscapes of the southern Sierra Nevada mountains.
What kind of difficulty can I expect from the hiking trails in Lake Isabella?
All the hiking trails listed in this guide for Lake Isabella are rated as easy. This makes them accessible for most fitness levels, including families and beginners, allowing you to enjoy the scenic beauty without overly strenuous effort.
Are there any family-friendly hiking trails around Lake Isabella?
Yes, all the trails in this guide are rated as easy, making them suitable for families. For a pleasant and relatively short walk, consider the Unal Trail, which offers a gentle introduction to the area's natural beauty. Another great option is the Coso Mine Loop Trail, which is short and offers historical interest.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails near Lake Isabella?
While specific regulations can vary, trails within the Sequoia National Forest, where Lake Isabella is located, generally permit dogs on a leash. It's always a good idea to check local signage or the forest service website for the most current rules before heading out. Many of the easy trails, like the Unal Trail, are popular with dog walkers.
What are some interesting natural features or landmarks I can see while hiking?
The Lake Isabella area is rich in natural and historical points of interest. You can explore the historic Coso Mine, which is now a bat habitat, along routes like the Coso Mine Loop Trail. For a unique experience, the Remington Hot Springs trail leads to natural hot springs along the Kern River, perfect for relaxation after your hike. The expansive Lake Isabella itself offers stunning views from various vantage points.
Are there any loop trails around Lake Isabella?
Yes, there are several loop trails that allow you to start and end at the same point, offering varied scenery without retracing your steps. The Coso Mine Loop Trail and the Isabella Peak and Coso Mine Loop Trail are excellent options for experiencing the area's history and views in a circular fashion.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Lake Isabella?
The Lake Isabella area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning 360-degree panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains, the diverse landscapes ranging from lush forests to dramatic river canyons, and the opportunity to discover historical sites like the Coso Mine.
What is the best time of year to hike around Lake Isabella?
The southern Sierra Nevada mountains offer a high-elevation environment, meaning cooler temperatures than the surrounding valleys. Spring and fall generally provide the most comfortable hiking conditions with mild weather and beautiful scenery. While summer can be warm, the higher elevations offer some respite. Winter hiking is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snow, especially at higher altitudes.
Are there any trails that offer great viewpoints of Lake Isabella?
Absolutely! Many trails provide fantastic vistas of the lake and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains. The Isabella Peak and Coso Mine Loop Trail is particularly noted for its rewarding views. Additionally, the Evans Road Curves offer scenic overlooks of the gorge and mountain range, providing excellent photo opportunities.
How long do the hiking trails typically take to complete?
The hiking trails around Lake Isabella vary in length and duration. For instance, the Coso Mine Loop Trail can be completed in under an hour, while the Unal Trail might take around 1.5 to 2 hours. These times are estimates and can vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.
Are there any unique historical sites accessible via hiking trails?
Yes, the region has a rich history. The Coso Mine, an old gold rush-era mine, is a notable historical site that you can visit. Trails like the Coso Mine Loop Trail and the Isabella Peak and Coso Mine Loop Trail incorporate this intriguing landmark into their routes, adding a layer of historical exploration to your hike.
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