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Jake YoungExplorer

Adventurer, Photographer, Impact Investor. I work with companies that want to have a positive impact on the world around them.

Hiking up Horsetail Falls is one of the most scenic and exciting ways to enter Desolation Wilderness. You probably shouldn't attempt this hike unless you feel very comfortable route finding, because there isn't a trail for the majority of the hike. When you get to the base of Horsetail Falls, make sure you climb on the west side of the falls. There is a cairn path about 200 yards west of the falls that will make you ascent a little easier and more efficient.

As the title states, this is a great way to get started hiking in Desolation Wilderness. The Glen Alpine trail is a relatively gradual climb and distance makes for a great day hike. Pro Tip: There is an island in the middle of the lake that you can swim to that makes for a great way to cool off in the hot summer months.

Definitely one of the best hikes in the Tahoe Basin. You get sweeping views of both Tahoe and Desolation Wilderness. This is a very popular hike, but that has never stopped me from doing. In my opinion, one of the best ways to do this hike is to get there for sunrise. You have to leave at about 3AM, but it is totally worth it.

Unlike Big Basin State Park, this area never has crowds. I have been here countless times and often didn't run into another person. Most of the trees are second growth, but there are a few old growths interspersed throughout the forest. Make sure to drive into the town of Pescadero afterwards to get some garlic artichoke bread.

Wanna see elk munching on grass with an ocean view? This is the place for you. Although the hike is on the longer side for a day hike, the scenery and wildlife make it worth it. I recommend bring a picnic and some beer to celebrate at the "end of the world"

This is hands down one of the coolest places that I have visited in California. The road is a little bit sketchy, but as long as you are careful it should be fine. It is worth the trek to go visit this serene piece of undeveloped coastline wilderness.

If you drive up to Skyline Blvd instead of hiking from Portola Valley, this awesome hike can actually be done before you have to be at work. It is an awesome way to start the day. On clear days you can see the ocean.

This area is one of my favorite areas in the entire Bay Area. The chances that you will have this place all to yourself are very. If you are trying to escape the hustle and bustle of the metropolitan area just over the mountain, this is the place to go.

This is one of my favorite spots in the Palo Alto area. This is a great place to hang out after a long day of work or classes. There aren't many "views" in Palo Alto, but you can actually see pretty far from this quaint little hill.

When the days are longer, its possible to head up here after work. The run itself is varied as you go through oak forests and open grassland. The sunsets up here are also awesome because you can actually see the ocean and the fog/clouds generally create some nice colors.