Take a Hike: Thunder Mountain Summit
LOCATED IN: Kirkwood. Google Thunder Mountain Trailhead.
Distance: 7.6 miles out and back; 1,800 feet elevation gain.
Difficulty Level: Moderate.
Know Before You Go: This popular trail features rough terrain that can be tough for dogs. There is a steady incline all the way up to the summit.
Fuel Up: Stop in Pine Grove on the way home for a combination plate and margarita at Las Minas Mexican Restaurant (lasminasrestaurant.com).
Why We Love It: Beautiful views with amazing wildflowers that accompany you up the ridgeline. The steady, moderate incline is a great way to get into shape for bigger and longer hikes.
Top photo by Whiteney Taylor; bottom photo by Behrooz Badie, @bbadie of Capture the Moment Photography, header photo by Kathy Brown.
Distance: 7.6 miles out and back; 1,800 feet elevation gain.
Difficulty Level: Moderate.
Know Before You Go: This popular trail features rough terrain that can be tough for dogs. There is a steady incline all the way up to the summit.
Fuel Up: Stop in Pine Grove on the way home for a combination plate and margarita at Las Minas Mexican Restaurant (lasminasrestaurant.com).
Why We Love It: Beautiful views with amazing wildflowers that accompany you up the ridgeline. The steady, moderate incline is a great way to get into shape for bigger and longer hikes.
Trail Notes: Wear shoes with traction, adequate clothing (dress in layers), and sunscreen; learn and practice “Leave No Trace” ethics; if you pack it in, pack it out; arrive early to get parking.
For more information, visit alltrails.com/trail/us/california/thunder-mountain-summit.
Survival Kit
While most of the time hiking is nothing but amazing, situations can happen and you should be prepared for them. Here is a quick “survival gear” checklist of items to bring in your pack.- First-aid kit
- Map and compass
- Space blanket
- Waterproof matches
- Fire starter + kindling
- Multi-tool + knife
- Headlamp + extra batteries
- Water Purification tablets
- Whistle
- Cordelette + duct tape
- Rain poncho
- Non-perishable snacks
Thunder Mountain Summit
By Ryan Martinez
Do you have a favorite trail in the region you’d like to see featured? Tell us all about it at [email protected].
Top photo by Whiteney Taylor; bottom photo by Behrooz Badie, @bbadie of Capture the Moment Photography, header photo by Kathy Brown.