Located IN:
Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park (Pilot Hill).

Distance:
5.4-mile loop.

Difficulty Level:
Moderate.

Know Before You Go:
The trail offers little sun protection, so bring a hat, sunscreen, ample water, and your swimsuit (if you want to take a dip!). Like most hikes in the area, be mindful of poison oak. It’s a popular area for mountain biking and horseback riding, in addition to hiking, so expect to share the trail. As always, leave naturel the same, or better, than you found it.

Why We Love It:

With vast views, clear signage, and river access, this trail has the length, intensity, and payout to make for an awesome day out in nature.

Buttercup Pantry

Fuel Up:

Serving home-cooked breakfasts all day and classic, country-style comfort cuisine since 1985, Buttercup Pantry (buttercuppantry.com) is the perfect place to dine either before or after a day of hiking.

River Swimming Safety

While there’s nothing better than jumping into cool water after a long hike, there are things you need to be aware of (especially when it comes to river safety). 

1. While it’s hot outside, the water is COLD! Snow melt from the Sierra runs into the rivers and is typically much colder than expected. Give yourself a moment to acclimate before swimming, as the cold can shock you and, in the worst case, immobilize you.

2. The water is stronger than it looks. While it may seem calm on the surface, the same runoff causes swift currents, and you can easily be swept away.

3. Always swim with a friend. It’s important to have someone with you in case anything goes wrong in the water. Have a plan and discuss it prior to getting in. 

Do you have a favorite trail in the region you’d like to see featured? Tell us all
about it at [email protected].

by Ryan Martinez
Photos 1 & 3 by Nancy Wong. Photo 2 by Sharon Hanks @runhikenplay. Photo 4 by David Smith. Buttercup Pantry photo courtesy of by Taylor Allred.