Best Short Hikes in California's Southern Sierra: A Guide to Day Hikes Near Campgrounds (Paperback)

~ Karen Whitehill (Author), Terry Whitehill (Author)

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Review

If you're a backpacker or skilled mountain climber in search of a grueling expedition, this isn't the book for you. But if you prefer day hikes to long hauls, if you'd rather get your timeless beauty and unspoiled serenity in the South Sierras at a saner, more relaxing pace (with or without the kids), then read on. A short introduction orients the would-be stroller to the history, vegetation, and wildlife of the region, offering general safety and planning tips as well. The rest is detailed information on 64 possible hikes, from short loops to all-day treks of 15 miles or more. For each hike, the distance, difficulty, and elevation gain are provided. And what a diverse array of hikes to choose from: whether you enjoy angling in a high lake or stream, summitting peaks such as Mt. Whitney (yes, a stretch for a day hike, but a definite option for the superbly fit), "wildflower watching," or just kicking back with a leisurely picnic (or a little of each and then some), this guide shows the way. With plenty of maps, easy-to-follow directions, and a healthy dose of what to look for (columbine and phlox, brook and golden trout, that perfect picnic spot...), you'll be quickly on your way to experiencing some of the best short hiking in the South Sierras. Use this guide to plan for a single excursion, or plan an extended trip using the detailed campground information provided at the beginning of each chapter.

Product Details

• Paperback: 240 pages
• Publisher: Mountaineers Books (May 1991)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0898862825
• ISBN-13: 978-0898862829
• Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.2 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,492,223 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Fantastic, informative, accurate and perfect in every way., June 2, 1997

By A Customer

We have read many books aobut hiking in the Sierras. this and the companion Northern Sierra book are by far the best. Each book covers over 60 hikes and all are magnificent one day trips. Descriptions of scenery and trails are super perfect. Best book by far on Sierra hikes

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Best Short Hikes in California's Southern Sierra, May 3, 2000

By	Bernard T. Light (Murrieta, CA) - See all my reviews

I like the book quite a bit. It is very specific on directions and descriptions. Having been in some of these locations before I can tell you it brought back memories. The only flaw I found in the book is that it said little or nothing about the fishing that would be found in the lakes that the hikes would take you to or near. Many hikers choose their destinations based at least partially around what kind of fishing they will find along the way. It would have been much better had the pictures been in color, also.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent guide for day hikes, August 15, 2002

By	Neal Mielke (Los Altos Hills, CA USA) - See all my reviews

This book was invaluable during a recent week-long vacation in the Mammoth Lakes area of the Sierras. The trail descriptions are clear and to the point. Each of the 64 hikes is described in 2-4 pages, with a quick summary of the statistics (distance, vertical), a clear map (showing trailhead, trail, and nearby natural features), and a nicely-written description of the trail and why you would (or would not) want to spend a day on it. If you're going to the area and want advice on where to hike, this book is the next best thing to a personal guide.