--- title: "The Best Hiking Trails Near Arnold, CA | Arnold Haven Guides" description: "Hikes within easy reach of Arnold, California — the Arnold Rim Trail, Calaveras Big Trees sequoia loops, White Pines Lake and the high-country trails above Lake Alpine." lang: en json-ld: | [ { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Article", "headline": "The Best Hiking Trails Near Arnold, CA", "description": "Hikes within easy reach of Arnold, California — the Arnold Rim Trail, Calaveras Big Trees sequoia loops, White Pines Lake and the high-country trails above Lake Alpine.", "articleSection": "Hiking", "datePublished": "2017-04-20", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://arnoldhaven.com/guides/hiking/arnold-hiking-trails" } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@graph": [ { "@type": "TouristAttraction", "@id": "https://arnoldhaven.com/guides/hiking/arnold-hiking-trails#attraction", "name": "Arnold, California", "alternateName": "The Best Hiking Trails Near Arnold, CA", "description": "April 20, 2017", "url": "https://arnoldhaven.com/guides/hiking/arnold-hiking-trails", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "addressLocality": "Arnold", "addressRegion": "California", "addressCountry": "US" } }, { "@type": "ItemList", "name": "Vacation rentals near Arnold hiking trails", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "CHALET BRUIN", "url": "https://arnoldhaven.com/cabins/chalet-bruin" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "KODA LOFT", "url": "https://arnoldhaven.com/cabins/koda-loft" } ] }, { "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://arnoldhaven.com/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Guides", "item": "https://arnoldhaven.com/guides" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "The Best Hiking Trails Near Arnold, CA", "item": "https://arnoldhaven.com/guides/hiking/arnold-hiking-trails" } ] } ] } ] --- [Arnold Haven Arnold · California ](/) [Cabins](/cabins)[Explore](/explore)[Guides](/guides)[Availability](/availability-search)[Support](/chalet-bruin-future)[Book a stay](/cabins) ![The Best Hiking Trails Near Arnold, CA](/assets/Arnold-Rim-Trail-trailhead-sign-1024x646-1-B520npGH.webp) Hiking # The Best Hiking Trails Near Arnold, CA April 20, 2017 [Check availability](/cabins)[See the cabins](/cabins) Hiking ## The Best Hiking Trails Near Arnold, CA April 20, 2017 Hiking ![The Best Hiking Trails Near Arnold, CA](/assets/naturalbridgestrail2-4TIvPxjo.webp) 02 Surrounded by pristine forests, shimmering lakes, and breathtaking mountain vistas, Arnold offers a plethora of hiking opportunities. Whether you’re an experienced hiker seeking a challenging ascent or a casual walker looking for a scenic stroll, Arnold has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the best hiking trails in the area and uncover the natural wonders that await. ![The Best Hiking Trails Near Arnold, CA](/assets/southgrovebigtrees-BiGI1fQo.webp) ![The Best Hiking Trails Near Arnold, CA](/assets/calaveras_big_trees_state_park__3000x2000___v1222x580-BN_7gmKg.webp) 03 ## Arnold Rim Trail The Arnold Rim Trail is a crown jewel of hiking in the area, offering a diverse range of landscapes and stunning views. This well-maintained trail takes you on a journey through pine forests, oak woodlands, and open meadows. The trail is divided into several sections, each with its own unique charm. \> \_Along the trail, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of the Sierra Nevada foothills and the surrounding Stanislaus National Forest. Keep an eye out for deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species that call this area home. You can explore old logging and mining remnants that provide a glimpse into the area’s rich history. \- \\1 17.5 miles (loop) \- \\1 Moderate ![Arnold Rim Trail](/assets/arnoldrimtrail-QES47Smt.webp) ![Arnold Rim Trail](/assets/san-antonio-falls-rim-trail-CpLGFXfJ.webp) 04 ## Natural Bridges Trail The Natural Bridges trail offers a captivating two-mile round trip adventure that guides you to mesmerizing limestone caverns sculpted by the meandering Coyote Creek, a tributary flowing into New Melones Lake. This trail is meticulously maintained by the US Bureau of Reclamation and is a top hiking trail among those exploring the New Melones area. \> \_The most prominent attractions at the Natural Bridges Trailhead are the sandstone bridges carved by wind and water. The largest of these arches, known as the “Big Bridge,” spans approximately 100 feet across and soars high above Vallecito Creek. \- \\1 2 miles (loop) \- \\1 Moderate ![Natural Bridges Trail](/assets/naturalbridgestrail1-DHqnX8BM.webp) ![Natural Bridges Trail](/assets/fishingstanilus2-Cjafh-lZ.webp) 05 ## Calaveras Big Trees State Park Calaveras Big Trees State Park is renowned for its colossal giant sequoias, some of the largest trees on Earth. \- \\1 This easy, 1.5-mile loop takes you through a grove of giant sequoias, including the famous “Discovery Tree,” where the first giant sequoia was documented. \- \\1 A bit more challenging at 8 miles, this trail provides an opportunity to see more giant sequoias, often in a quieter and less crowded setting. \> \_You’ll hike through Giant Sequoias. These ancient trees, some over 250 feet tall and 3,000 years old, are a true natural wonder. \- \\1 Various trails available, from short walks to 8-mile loops \- \\1 Easy to Moderate ![Calaveras Big Trees State Park](/assets/naturalbridgestrail2-4TIvPxjo.webp) ![Calaveras Big Trees State Park](/assets/southgrovebigtrees-BiGI1fQo.webp) 06 ## Sourgrass Recreation Area For those seeking a serene and less crowded experience, the Sourgrass Recreation Area offers a delightful escape. The network of trails here winds through picturesque forests and along the scenic Stanislaus River. \> \_Enjoy the calming presence of the Stanislaus River, perfect for picnics and relaxation. In the spring and early summer, the meadows burst with colorful wildflowers, creating a stunning backdrop. \- \\1 2-5 miles \- \\1 Easy to Moderate ![Sourgrass Recreation Area](/assets/calaveras_big_trees_state_park__3000x2000___v1222x580-BN_7gmKg.webp) ![Sourgrass Recreation Area](/assets/arnoldrimtrail-QES47Smt.webp) 07 ## Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) Section The Pacific Crest Trail is a legendary long-distance trail that stretches from Mexico to Canada. Arnold boasts a scenic section of the PCT that offers a challenging yet rewarding hike through the wilderness. \> \_Escape into the rugged and remote Sierra Nevada backcountry. Encounter pristine lakes like Lake Alpine and Raymond Lake, perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot summer day. Challenge yourself with high mountain passes and enjoy breathtaking views from the ridge. \- \\1 Approximately 25 miles (one way) \- \\1 Challenging Whether you’re looking to stroll among ancient giant sequoias, savor panoramic mountain views, or venture into remote wilderness, Arnold has a hiking experience tailored just for you. The trails mentioned here represent only a fraction of the natural beauty this region has to offer, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure. So, lace up your hiking boots, pack your water bottle, and set out to discover the breathtaking landscapes of Arnold, CA. ![Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) Section](/assets/san-antonio-falls-rim-trail-CpLGFXfJ.webp) ![Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) Section](/assets/naturalbridgestrail1-DHqnX8BM.webp) 08 ## Also Interesting... Arnold Haven - October 22, 2023 \* ![Also Interesting...](/assets/fishingstanilus2-Cjafh-lZ.webp) ![Also Interesting...](/assets/naturalbridgestrail2-4TIvPxjo.webp) Gallery ## The Best Hiking Trails Near Arnold, CA in pictures ![The Best Hiking Trails Near Arnold, CA — photo 1](/assets/naturalbridgestrail2-4TIvPxjo.webp) ![The Best Hiking Trails Near Arnold, CA — photo 2](/assets/southgrovebigtrees-BiGI1fQo.webp) ![The Best Hiking Trails Near Arnold, CA — photo 3](/assets/calaveras_big_trees_state_park__3000x2000___v1222x580-BN_7gmKg.webp) ![The Best Hiking Trails Near Arnold, CA — photo 4](/assets/arnoldrimtrail-QES47Smt.webp) ![The Best Hiking Trails Near Arnold, CA — photo 5](/assets/san-antonio-falls-rim-trail-CpLGFXfJ.webp) ![The Best Hiking Trails Near Arnold, CA — photo 6](/assets/naturalbridgestrail1-DHqnX8BM.webp) ![The Best Hiking Trails Near Arnold, CA — photo 7](/assets/fishingstanilus2-Cjafh-lZ.webp) Nearby ## Keep exploring [ ![Top Restaurants Near Arnold, CA](/assets/fishingstanilus2-Cjafh-lZ.webp) ### Top Restaurants Near Arnold, CA Nestled in the picturesque Sierra Nevada Mountains, Arnold, California, offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities and a burgeoning culinary scene. Below are some of the top restaurants favored by locals and tourists alike. Dogwood Restaurant Dogwood offers fresh, … Arnold Haven - September 30, 2023 \* Discover ](/guides/restaurants/arnold-restaurants) [ ![Rock Climbing near Arnold, CA](/assets/tablemountain-D9Rpvgwe.webp) ### Rock Climbing near Arnold, CA The region around Arnold, CA boasts a variety of impressive rock formations, ranging from crack climbs on granite domes to steep basalt columns, making it an excellent destination for climbers of all skill levels. Below you’ll find some of the … Arnold Haven - September 30, 2023 \* Discover ](/guides/rock-climbing/rock-climbing-spots-arnold) [ ![Fishing Spots near Arnold, CA](/assets/Stanislaus-River-flyfishing-DdYuBhoe.webp) ### Fishing Spots near Arnold, CA With its serene alpine lakes, meandering rivers, and stunning mountain landscapes, Arnold offers some of the best fishing experiences in Northern California. In this article, we’ll explore the top fishing locations in and around Arnold, discussing why they are considered … Discover ](/guides/fishing/fishing-spots-near-arnold) Stay nearby ## Vacation rentals near Arnold hiking trails Most of the trails on this list start within 30 minutes of the cabins, from the Arnold Rim Trail to the sequoia loops at Big Trees. Looking for cabin rentals in Arnold, CA? Arnold Haven has two dog-friendly cabins — a five-bedroom A-frame chalet that sleeps 12 and a two-bedroom loft that sleeps 4. Minimum stay is 2 nights, check-in is at 3pm and check-out at 11am. Check-in Self check-in, 3pm Cancellation 5 days notice, full refund - [CHALET BRUIN — 12 guests, 5 bedrooms](/cabins/chalet-bruin) - [KODA LOFT — 4 guests, 2 bedrooms](/cabins/koda-loft) Check live availability, see your full price, and book securely — ID check and payment are handled by Stripe. Check dates & book Arnold Haven Cabin stays in Arnold, California — minutes from Calaveras Big Trees State Park, White Pines Lake and Bear Valley. 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