If you’ve been meaning to “get outside more,” this is your sign. Whether you're an avid hiker or just looking for more ways to experience the outdoors, you don't want to miss these top hiking trails in Fresno County.
Lewis S. Eaton Trail (Woodward Park)
Length: 8.9 miles (3-3.5hr) (Out & Back)
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate (Mostly Flat)
The Lewis S. Eaton Trail is a great hike for beginners or if you want to stay near the city. Hike the paved path through Woodward Park or walk a little further for more views along the San Joaquin River. Dogs are allowed on parts of the trail. Springtime is the best time for this hike, with great views of foothills and wildflowers. If you're visiting in summer or fall, be sure to wear sunscreen and bring water. Locals love this trail, so weekends can get busy. Woodward Park near the trail is usually the ideal place to park. Parking is $5.
Pincushion Mountain Peak
Length: 2.5 miles (1.5-2hr) (Out & Back)
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard (Very Steep Incline)
A short drive from Fresno is Pincushion Mountain Peak in Friant. It's a more challenging trek due to a steep incline and rocky terrain — but the views are worth it! This hike is great for spring visitors (March to May) and fall visitors (late-September through November). Our favorite time is about an hour before sunset. Head up to the top to watch the sun set over Millerton Lake and the foothills. The trail is also popular for trail running and birding. Dogs are not allowed on the trail! There's little shade along the way, so be prepared. Insiders tip: there’s a gate before starting the hike, so be sure to close the gate when starting to keep the cows in! Parking is available at South Finegold Picnic Area at the end of Sky Harbour Road for $10. Restrooms are at the main parking lot.
Buzzard’s Roost Trail
Length: 2.5 miles (1.5-2hr) (Out & Back)
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard (Very Steep Incline)
On the north side of Millerton Lake, hike the Buzzard's Roost Trail! This trail is quick, but challenging. You'll have to walk a steep incline, but the views of the lake are worth the climb! We suggest hiking this trail during the spring (March to May) or during the fall (late-September through November). Be aware of rattlesnakes and other wildlife. Wear hats and sunscreen as this trail is in full sun. Parking can be located on the north side of Millerton Lake, on North Fork Road/Sky Harbor Road. A gravel turnout parking should be seen directly across from the signed trailhead. Parking is $10 per vehicle. Dogs are not allowed on this trail.
San Joaquin River via Ya-Gub-Weh-Tuh Trailhead
Length: 2 miles (1-1.5hr) (Out & Back)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (Inclines)
You don't want to miss this beginner-friendly hike located in Auberry, about 35 minutes from Fresno. The San Joaquin River via Ya-Gub-Weh-Tuh (Pa’san Ridge Trail) trailhead, meaning "Place of the Big Rock," is located inside the San Joaquin River Gorge. It's beloved by locals for its river bridge and spring wildflowers views. It's dog-friendly (be sure to keep your pets on leash) and great for families looking to get outside without traveling far from the city. We suggest hiking this trailhead in the spring (March to May) or in the early fall (late-September through October). The trail is in direct sun, so be prepared with water and wear sunscreen. Parking is located at the Ya-Gub-Weh-Tuh Trailhead off Smalley Road in Auberry for $5. There are restrooms at the start of the trailhead.
Pa’san Ridge Trail
Length: 7.7 miles (4-4.5hr) (Full Loop)
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard (Steep Inclines, rocky)
Nearby the Ya-Gub-Weh-Tuh Trailhead, you'll the Pa’san Ridge Trail. This trail more experienced hikers with steep inclines and rocky pathways. You can hike, trail run or ride your mountain bike. Temperatures can heat up in this area, so we suggest hiking during the spring (March to May) or late fall (October to November). Watch out for wildlife along the path and bring plenty of water and sun protection. Parking can be located at the Ya-Gub-Weh-Tuh Trailhead within San Joaquin River Gorge Special Recreation Management Area (off Smalley Road in Auberry for $5). Restrooms and picnic tables are located near the parking area.
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