The distinctive flower of skunk cabbage

      Total Elevation Gain/Loss The total amount of climbing and descending on the hike. This can be significantly greater than the difference between the hike’s lowest and highest points.

      Hiking Time The total amount of time required for the hike, including time for brief rest stops and a meal break on longer trips. Because this varies markedly depending on your physical fitness and pace, a range of times is usually given. The lower number indicates the amount of time in which a fit hiker can complete the hike, pausing only briefly for short breaks. The higher number is for hikers moving at a more leisurely pace and for anybody who likes to take extended breaks over the course of a journey. Remember that these times are only rough estimates and that hikes can potentially take longer for slower hikers and those with heavy backpacks.

      It’s important to be aware of your physical capabilities and limitations when selecting a hike. As a general rule of thumb, a reasonably fit hiker can expect to cover 2–3 miles per hour over level ground and on gradual descents, 1–2 miles per hour on gradual climbs, and only about 1 mile per hour—or 750–1,000 feet of elevation—on the steepest ascents.

      Recommended Map(s) The best, most useful trail map for the destination, as well as the appropriate US Geological Survey (USGS) 7.5-minute topographic map. Many of the hikes can be completed using only the maps in the book or those available near the trailhead, but maps that are more detailed and comprehensive generally provide an extra measure of safety and comfort, especially on the more difficult and remote hikes. Most US Forest Service maps are available for purchase online at nationalforestmapstore.com. All USGS maps can be ordered online at store.usgs.gov.

      Best Times The best times of year to do the hike. Note that many of the hikes can be done outside of the times listed, but weather or crowds will probably make them much less appealing.

      Agency This line identifies the governing agency. Contact information is listed in “Nearest Visitor Center” at the end of each description. If the hike visits a designated wilderness area, it is listed here, followed by the governing agency for the location.

Difficulty This book uses a difficulty rating system of one to five stars. While all factors contributing to the overall challenge of the hike are taken into account, some general criteria for each level are as follows:

       EASY: Typically short and level, these hikes can be done by anybody and have less than 500 feet of total elevation gain.

       MODERATE: Hikes on good trails with roughly 500–1,000 feet of total elevation gain. Suitable for any reasonably fit hiker.

       STRENUOUS: Longer hikes with approximately 1,000–2,000 feet of elevation gain on trails that are often rocky and steep. Good fitness required.

       CHALLENGING: A very strenuous hike with roughly 2,000–3,000 feet of elevation gain in often remote regions on challenging trails. Experienced wilderness users only. Many are good overnight trips.

       EPIC: An adventure with an elevation gain in excess of 3,000 feet on rough and difficult trails. Cross-country navigation skills are often required. Only the fittest individuals can complete these hikes in a single day. Excellent for overnight trips.

      Trip Type Symbols

       Out-and-back A hike that returns to the starting trailhead by retracing its route.

       Loop or semiloop A hike that retraces little or none of its route to return to the starting trailhead.

       Point-to-point A hike that ends at a different trailhead. A second car or a shuttle is required to return to the starting trailhead.

      Other Symbols

       Backpacking All hikes that can be done as overnight backpacking trips include this symbol. Specific backpacking information is listed at the end of each hike.

       Dogs This symbol tells you which locations allow dogs in the backcountry.

       Kids Indicates hikes well suited for young children. Such hikes are short and easy, and they often have educational interpretive signs.

      Hike Description

      The body of the hike is broken down into three main sections:

      The Hike Following the introductory material and background information is a brief overview of the hike, discussing seasonal differences, crowds, recommended equipment, special regulations, fishing possibilities, and the availability of water both at the trailhead and along the hike.

      To Reach the Trailhead Concise driving directions to the start of the hike. This book assumes that you have a basic highway map of California. Mention is made if access requires a four-wheel-drive or high-clearance vehicle. Entrance fees are also included in this