Chimney Peak Wilderness: A Hidden Gem of California's Natural Beauty
Discover the serene beauty and diverse wildlife of Chimney Peak Wilderness, a hidden gem in California perfect for outdoor adventures and nature exploration.
Chimney Peak Wilderness, located in Inyokern, California, offers breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Explore its rugged terrain and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of this wildlife refuge.
A brief summary to Chimney Peak Wilderness
- Inyokern, California, 93527, US
- +1661-391-6000
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during the spring or fall for the best weather and beautiful wildflowers.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife sightings.
- Pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited in the wilderness.
- Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit for the best hiking experience.
Getting There
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Car
To reach Chimney Peak Wilderness by car, start by heading towards Inyokern, CA. If you're coming from the Los Angeles area, take the I-15 North to the I-395 North. Continue on I-395 until you reach Inyokern, which is approximately 40 miles from the junction. Once in Inyokern, look for CA-178 East. Follow CA-178 for about 15 miles until you see the signs for Chimney Peak Wilderness. You may need to park at designated areas nearby, as there are limited parking spots right at the wilderness entrance.
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Public Transportation
Public transportation options are limited in this remote area. If you're in a larger city like Los Angeles, you can take a Greyhound bus to Ridgecrest, CA. From Ridgecrest, you can use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, or rent a car to reach Inyokern. Once you arrive in Inyokern, follow the same directions as above to get to Chimney Peak Wilderness.
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Hiking
If you are already in the Colorado Desert and have access to trails, you can consider hiking into Chimney Peak Wilderness. Depending on your starting point, use local maps to find trails that connect to the wilderness area. Make sure to equip yourself properly for a long hike and check local trail conditions before you go.
Discover more about Chimney Peak Wilderness
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Freeman Junction/California Historical Landmark No. 766
31.8 km
Explore Freeman Junction, California Historical Landmark No. 766, where history meets serene landscapes in Inyokern, a must-visit for every traveler.
Red Rock Canyon State Park
52.8 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and geological wonders of Red Rock Canyon State Park, a true desert paradise in California.
Garces Baptismal Site/ California Historical Landmark No. 631
76.6 km
Explore the Garces Baptismal Site, a significant California Historical Landmark that celebrates the intersection of culture and history amidst stunning natural beauty.
California Historical Landmark 752: Owens Lake Silver-Lead Furnace
76.8 km
Explore the Owens Lake Silver-Lead Furnace, a historical landmark that reveals California's mining legacy amidst stunning natural beauty.
Eagle Lake
78.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Eagle Lake, a hidden gem in California perfect for outdoor adventures and serene escapes.
Mosquito Lakes
79.2 km
Explore the serene beauty of Mosquito Lakes in California, a hidden gem perfect for fishing, hiking, and enjoying nature's tranquility.
Upper Monarch Lake
79.5 km
Explore Upper Monarch Lake: A serene swimming lake surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, ideal for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
Mineral King Valley
81.2 km
Experience the stunning natural beauty of Mineral King Valley, a hidden gem in California's Sierra Nevada, perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and photography.
Cesar E. Chavez National Monument
81.6 km
Explore the legacy of Cesar E. Chavez at this inspiring national monument dedicated to labor rights and social justice in California.
Tar Gap Trailhead
82.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Tar Gap Trailhead, a serene hiking area in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, California.
Mineral King Ranger Station
82.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Mineral King Ranger Station in Sequoia National Park, your gateway to incredible hiking, wildlife, and nature experiences.
Cold Springs Campground
82.1 km
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Mt Kaweah
83.1 km
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Alabama Hills
83.2 km
Explore the stunning rock formations and cinematic history of Alabama Hills, a must-visit historical landmark in California's breathtaking landscapes.
Silver City Mountain Resort
85.2 km
Discover unparalleled serenity and adventure at Silver City Mountain Resort, your gateway to the stunning Sierra Nevada wilderness in California.
Unmissable attractions to see
South Sierra Wilderness
37.2 km
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Silver City Ghost Town
46.0 km
Explore the Wild West at Silver City Ghost Town, a captivating museum and antique store in Bodfish, California, rich in history and adventure.
Trail of 100 Giants Trailhead
48.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Trail of 100 Giants, a stunning hiking area featuring majestic giant sequoias in California's picturesque landscape.
Sequoia National Forest
49.8 km
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Golden Trout Wilderness
55.8 km
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Stagg Tree
61.2 km
Explore the Stagg Tree in Springville, CA - a majestic giant sequoia that offers breathtaking views and a peaceful escape into nature.
Fish Rocks
62.7 km
Explore the stunning geological formations and cultural significance of Fish Rocks in Trona, California, a must-see tourist attraction for nature lovers.
Balch Park
67.5 km
Explore Balch Park, a serene destination in the Sierra Nevada perfect for hiking, picnicking, and reconnecting with nature amidst stunning landscapes.
Death Valley National Park Sign
72.3 km
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Darwin Falls
72.8 km
Explore the enchanting Darwin Falls in Death Valley National Park, where serene hikes and stunning waterfalls meet desert beauty.
Father Crowley Overlook
73.8 km
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Darwin Falls Trailhead
74.0 km
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Cerro Gordo Ghost Town
80.9 km
Discover the haunting allure of Cerro Gordo Ghost Town, a historic mining relic nestled in the breathtaking Eastern Sierra of California.
Eastern Sierra Visitor Center
81.2 km
Explore the Eastern Sierra Visitor Center for essential information and breathtaking landscapes in California's stunning natural beauty.
Tehachapi Loop
83.0 km
Explore the Tehachapi Loop, an incredible engineering marvel offering stunning views and a unique experience for train enthusiasts and nature lovers in California.
Essential places to dine
Ewings on the Kern
31.8 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks and local American cuisine at Ewings on the Kern, where culinary excellence meets riverside charm in beautiful Kernville.
Johnny McNally's Fairview Lodge- Restaurant
37.7 km
Experience culinary delights amidst breathtaking scenery at Johnny McNally's Fairview Lodge in Kernville, California - where adventure meets comfort.
Deer Creek Lodge Restaurant
55.1 km
Experience delicious American cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty at Deer Creek Lodge Restaurant in California Hot Springs.
Pierpoint Bar & Grill
58.4 km
Discover delicious grill cuisine at Pierpoint Bar & Grill in Springville – where every meal is an unforgettable experience.
Cowpuncher's Cafe & Catering
73.0 km
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The Big Red Barn, Murray Family Farms
86.3 km
Experience farm-fresh delights at The Big Red Barn – where culinary excellence meets family fun in Bakersfield's beautiful countryside.
Black Bear Diner Porterville
89.0 km
Experience hearty American cuisine at Black Bear Diner Porterville - where family-friendly dining meets delicious comfort food.
Renegade Room
93.5 km
Savor authentic American flavors at Renegade Room in Bakersfield—where delicious food meets welcoming hospitality.
The Gateway Restaurant & Lodge
97.4 km
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Buckeye Tree Lodge & Cabins
97.4 km
Discover tranquility at Buckeye Tree Lodge & Cabins—your gateway to adventure in beautiful Three Rivers, California.
Pyrenees Cafe
97.4 km
Savor authentic Basque flavors at Pyrenees Cafe in Bakersfield – where European culinary traditions meet warm hospitality.
Luigi's Restaurant and Delicatessen
97.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Luigi's Restaurant and Delicatessen in Bakersfield - where every dish tells a story.
Wool Growers Restaurant
97.6 km
Experience authentic Basque cuisine at Wool Growers Restaurant in Bakersfield – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Sequoia Cider Mill Restaurant
98.3 km
Discover delicious American cuisine at Sequoia Cider Mill Restaurant in Three Rivers – perfect for families and nature lovers alike!
Crab in a Bag
98.3 km
Experience fresh seafood like never before at Crab in a Bag – where crabs are served with flair and flavor!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lah-De-Dah
32.4 km
Discover unique antiques, handmade crafts, and local artwork at Lah-De-Dah, Kernville's charming gift shop for every traveler.
The Sierra Gallery & Boutique
73.0 km
Explore The Sierra Gallery & Boutique in Springville, CA, where local artistry meets unique jewelry and photography in a charming setting.
Eagle Feather Trading Post
76.5 km
Explore Eagle Feather Trading Post in Porterville for authentic Native American crafts, unique gifts, and a connection to local culture.
Wink Boutique
87.2 km
Explore Wink Boutique in Porterville for a unique shopping experience filled with trendy clothing and accessories that express your style.
SHOP LUVELY
87.2 km
Explore Shop Luvely in Porterville for unique fashion and decor treasures amidst a warm boutique ambiance.
The Hidden Cottage
87.4 km
Explore The Hidden Cottage in Porterville, a delightful gift shop offering unique treasures and local artistry for every visitor.
Shelly's
90.4 km
Explore Shelly's in Porterville for unique gifts and local art that beautifully capture the spirit of California.
Aguilera's Creations Inc
96.0 km
Explore Aguilera's Creations Inc in Bakersfield for unique handcrafted gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of California.
Totem Market & Gifts
97.8 km
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Junk-Atique Outlet Thrift Store
98.1 km
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Kaweah General Store
98.2 km
Experience the rustic charm of Kaweah General Store, your go-to spot for local groceries and essentials in Three Rivers, California.
Three Rivers Mercantile
98.3 km
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Village Market
98.4 km
Discover the Village Market in Three Rivers, CA – your go-to grocery store near Sequoia National Park, offering fresh produce, snacks, and local essentials.
Sierra Subs & Salad
98.5 km
Discover fresh, delicious sandwiches and salads at Sierra Subs & Salad, the perfect stop before your Sequoia National Park adventure.
Gathered
98.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Panamint Springs Restaurant
77.8 km
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Lake Canyon Ranch
90.4 km
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Grenadier Cocktail Lounge
94.6 km
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Mc Murphys Irish Pub
97.7 km
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Serrano's Mexican Restaurant
98.4 km
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The Silver Fox Starlite Lounge
98.7 km
Discover the vibrant charm of The Silver Fox Starlite Lounge, Bakersfield's favorite cocktail bar, where delicious drinks and a cozy ambiance await.
18th Street Bar and Grill
98.8 km
Experience the vibrant dining atmosphere at 18th Street Bar and Grill in Bakersfield, where delicious food and refreshing drinks await every visitor.
The Botanist
98.9 km
Discover a vibrant cocktail bar in Downtown Bakersfield, where artisanal drinks and a lively atmosphere await.
The Mint Bar
99.1 km
Discover the lively spirit of Downtown Bakersfield at The Mint Bar, where eclectic cocktails and a vibrant crowd create unforgettable nights.
Foxtail Lounge Bakersfield
99.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Foxtail Lounge in Bakersfield, where exquisite cocktails meet a lively atmosphere for a memorable evening.
Tiki-Ko
99.3 km
Discover the enchanting Tiki-Ko Cocktail Bar in Downtown Bakersfield, where exotic drinks and vibrant ambiance create the perfect nightlife escape.
Sandrini's Public House
99.4 km
Discover the best of Bakersfield nightlife at Sandrini's Public House, a lively bar and pub with craft beers and delicious bites.
Guthrie's Alley Cat
99.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Downtown Bakersfield at Guthrie's Alley Cat, a cocktail bar that offers a unique blend of flavor and atmosphere.
Crash Lounge
99.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Bakersfield at Crash Lounge, where craft cocktails and live music create an unforgettable experience.
