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California
3.0 mi
Distance
7,952 ft
Gain
No conditions check on file for this trail yet — always verify current conditions before you go.
Why you'll love it
Ward Lake
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Ward Lake Trail is a steep and challenging alpine ascent gaining nearly 8,000 feet over just 3 miles, making it one of California's most intense short hikes. This expert-level route climbs through varied terrain to reach high elevation, offering dramatic mountain vistas and alpine scenery for those prepared for the relentless elevation gain. The sustained steepness and significant altitude change demand excellent fitness and acclimatization.
Willow Creek
~2 min drive
Moderate creek-side hike with 2,412 ft gain near Willow Creek, CA.
Landers Lake
~4 min drive
Moderate 8.39-mile alpine lake hike with 1,563 ft elevation gain.
Seven Up Peak
~5 min drive
Steep 2.4-mile peak climb with 758 ft elevation gain.
Blacks Basin
~4 min drive
Moderately steep 4.4-mile basin hike with 1,764 ft elevation gain.
Four Lakes
~5 min drive
Moderate 8-mile alpine lake loop with 2,863 ft elevation gain in the Sierra Nevada.
Caribou
~6 min drive
Steep alpine climb with 2,555 ft gain over 2.8 miles near Caribou.
Kidd Creek
~4 min drive
Moderate 5.5-mile climb with 2,361 ft gain near Kidd Creek.
Deer Creek
~5 min drive
Challenging 13.8-mile creek-side hike with 3,784 ft elevation gain.
Union Lake
~8 min drive
Easy 1.8-mile alpine lake hike with 375 ft elevation gain.
Sunrise Creek
~4 min drive
Steady 3.6-mile creek-side climb with 1,500 ft elevation gain.
