Stanislaus National Forest

Recreational Activities

Hiking

Calaveras | Groveland | Mi-Wok | Summit

Aquamarine lakes and streams, delicate wildflowers, spectacular vistas, unique geological formations, and other scenic wonders await hikers and nature lovers in the Stanislaus National Forest. Forest trails give travelers a variety of opportunities to experience the abundance of natural beauty found on the Stanislaus. Many of them appear on the Forest recreation map, Emigrant Wilderness topographic map, or Carson-Iceberg Wilderness topographic map available at Forest Offices. Hikers, horseback riders, and backpackers have 480 miles of trails, and over 1000 miles of un-surfaced roads available for their use and enjoyment.

Please be prepared for trail conditions that vary from well maintained to un-maintained. Whether your hiking trip will last an hour or an entire day, wear comfortable walking shoes appropriate for the season. Carry water and a good map of the area. Let someone at home know where you are going.

Please be aware of your impact on the natural environment and practice no-trace hiking and camping techniques at all times. If you plan to bring your pet, keep it on a leash and under control to help minimize the publics concern regarding safety, sanitation, and the threat to wildlife. Please pack out any trash you may have so others may enjoy a completely natural outdoor experience. Smoking while hiking is allowed only during winter and early spring (November through April), when vegetation is green.

If you travel in the spring, be careful when walking near streams. Snow runoff can increase water depth and swiftness and decrease water temperature to dangerous levels. Stay away from streambanks at this time and resist the temptation to swim or wade.

WATER QUALITY

Lakes and streams can be contaminated even though they look and taste pure. The surest method of treatment to make water safe is to boil it for five minutes. Other methods are filtering and/or using chemical disinfectants such as iodine or chlorine tablets or drops. A filter with a pore size less than 0.5 micron can remove most harmful bacteria and protozoa including giardia. Chemical disinfectants such as iodine or chlorine tablets or drops are not considered as reliable as heat in killing giardia, although these products work well against most waterborne disease-causing bacteria. For increased safety, treat filtered water with chemical disinfectants.