The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Inyo County

The Golden Canyon and Gower Gulch Loop Trail offers a captivating journey through Death Valley's unique badlands, showcasing a dramatic shift in scenery from wide, golden-walled canyons to rugged gulches. You'll start with a gradual climb through Golden Canyon, navigating minor rock scrambles and enjoying the vibrant geological layers, with the option to detour to the impressive Red Cathedral. The route then ascends towards Manly Beacon for panoramic views before descending through the gravel-filled Gower Gulch, which features narrow sections and rocky dry waterfalls.

This moderate 6.0-mile (9.7 km) hike, with 946 feet (288 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 51 minutes. For the best experience, plan your visit for just after sunrise or right before sunset, when cooler temperatures and optimal lighting enhance the colorful landscape. The trailhead is easily accessible, but always carry ample water, as conditions in Death Valley can be extreme.

What makes this loop truly stand out is its accessibility and the sheer diversity of terrain and color packed into a single outing. It's considered one of the best day hikes in Death Valley National Park, moving from the striking golden hues of the canyon to the more rugged, water-carved features of the gulch. While the Golden Canyon section can be busy, the full loop often provides a more secluded experience, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking iconic desert geology.

The Badlands Loop offers a captivating journey through Death Valley's unique terrain, showcasing a lunar-like landscape of striated barren geology. You'll encounter fantastic views of classic rock formations, including jagged buttes and spires, particularly around the Viewpoint and Zabriskie Point. This easy 2.1-mile (3.4 km) hiking route, with 375 feet (114 metres) of elevation gain, is a perfect introduction to the park's dramatic scenery, taking just under an hour to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trailhead is conveniently located near Zabriskie Point, a well-known spot with parking. Given the consistent lack of shade, it's crucial to bring plenty of water and wear sun protection, especially during warmer periods. For the most comfortable experience, aim to hike in the cooler mornings or late afternoons. No special permits are needed for this accessible trail.

This area is a geological time capsule, revealing millions of years of erosion through its colorful spires and pinnacles. The Badlands Loop is a great way to experience the park's diverse scenery, from these striking formations to distant views of the White River Valley. It's an excellent choice for families or anyone looking for a high-reward, low-effort hike in Badlands National Park.

The Schulman Grove Discovery Trail offers a truly unique hiking experience, immersing you in the ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. This easy 1.3-mile (2.1 km) loop takes you through a landscape sculpted by millennia, where gnarled, twisted trees stand as silent witnesses to history. You'll encounter both standing and fallen bristlecone pines, some over 3,200 years old, with tightly packed growth rings telling tales of past climates. The path winds along a ridge, offering panoramic views that stretch across the Owens Valley to the majestic Sierra Nevada.

Planning your visit means preparing for high altitude; the entire route is above 10,000 feet, so even the modest 254 feet (77 metres) of elevation gain can feel more strenuous. The trail is well-maintained and starts from the Schulman Grove Visitor Center, where parking is available. Allow about 38 minutes for this hike, and consider an early morning start to enjoy cooler temperatures and clearer views.

What makes this trail truly special is its access to some of the oldest living organisms on Earth. It was here that Dr. Edmund Schulman discovered Pine Alpha, a bristlecone pine over 4,000 years old, though the very oldest trees are not specifically identified for their protection. You'll see numerous bristlecones dating back over four millennia, including the remarkably twisted "Dead Sentry Tree," a favorite for photographers. Interpretive signs along the way provide fascinating insights into these resilient trees and their environment.

The Eye of Alabama Loop takes you through a truly unique desert landscape, where distinctive, rounded rock formations create an otherworldly feel. The highlight is the Eye of Alabama Hills Arch, which frames the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains, including Mount Whitney, offering incredible photographic opportunities. This easy 2.9-mile (4.7 km) hiking route, with a gentle 383 feet (117 metres) of elevation gain, is a fantastic option for a quick, scenic adventure that takes about 1 hour and 22 minutes.

To make the most of your visit, plan your hike during spring or fall for milder temperatures. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for photography, especially around the Eye of Alabama Hills Arch. There are no permits or fees required to access this area, and it's a family-friendly trail where leashed dogs are welcome.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Alabama Hills are famous as a backdrop for numerous Hollywood films, adding a layer of cinematic history to your hike. The striking contrast of the orange rocks against the snow-capped peaks makes it a prime location for photography, and you can explore other significant arches like Heart Arch along the broader Arch Loop Trail.