Bakersfield Life

On the perfect trail

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      When you think about trail running in the Bakersfield area, your immediate thought may not be a totally positive one. 
      Flat, hot, dusty and ugly may be images that come to mind.  But in truth, Kern County has a fabulously diverse selection of trails.
       I asked some of my friends and fellow veteran trail runners to describe some of their favorite trails. Here are just a few:

KERN RIVER BIKE PATH
       This bike path offers an excellent route all the way from Derrel’s Mini Storage, beneath Panorama Bluffs, through Beach Park, Yokuts Park, and the Park at the River Walk. It continues for many miles, all the way west to Enos Lane. You may choose a firm path or dirt trail most of the way.  The scenery changes from canal side, riverside, shady trees, drinking fountains and lakes to flat farmland.  There are no significant hills on this trail, and it is also great for mountain biking.

Take in the scenery around Hart Park
      In contrast, head east to Hart Park’s Pistol Range for some major hill climbing and incredible scenery.  As you wind your way uphill on the wide trail, you will be treated to fantastic vistas for hundreds of miles in each direction.  After doing a loop on top of the mesa, head down the infamous “Toads Gulley” for some wild terrain.  Steep sides and one mile of downhill offer a fun descent.  This trail offers wonderful recreation for hikers, runners and mountain bikers, an approximate four-mile trail. Bring your own water on this one. 

The calming path leading to Lake Ming
      For another flatter trail, park at the far eastern end of Lake Ming and pick up the bike path around the beautiful lake or alternately drop below to the grassy trail for a cooler, riverside trail.  Follow the trail through the campgrounds and along the riverbank toward Hart Park. A nice loop can be traveled around Hart Park and return back along the trail behind the soccer park, passing CALM, the Rio Bravo area and back around the other side of the Lake.

The road less traveled — Cow Flat
      For a slightly more adventurous hike, off the beaten path, drive up the scenic Breckenridge Road to the “Cow Flat” sign on your left.  You will find yourself surrounded by wildlife, nature and rugged, mountain  terrain.  Although the trail itself is easily negotiated and stretches the width of a vehicle, it is remote, and hikers should take caution.  Bring water and food, and you may be out of cell phone range in places.  Tell someone where you are going, or better, don’t go alone.  This trail is approximately 13 miles from Breckenridge to the steep descent down to Highway 178.  This trail is also great for mountain biking. 

     Many local races are held on these trails and more. They are a good way to try them out with company or join one of our friendly running or hiking groups, such as the Bakersfield Track Club, which can introduce you to our amazing Kern Country landscape.  There is so much to enjoy all year round.

Sally Baker is a local fitness expert. Running and yoga are among her specialties.