Day Trips From Bakersfield

Let’s Explore The Drop-Dead Gorgeous Beauty Of Bakersfield In The Sun Lit Hours!

Drive from Los Angeles or Las Vegas to Yosemite and enter California’s 9th largest city, Bakersfield. Bakersfield is very well-known as the center of agriculture, oil production, and most of all The Bakersfield Sound birthplace, a country music genre of twangy impressed by electrical and rock instruments. There is also more to offer when Bakersfield is explored in daylight and history is what attracts history buffs to this area. Every corner will take you back in time to the pulsating history. 

Explore the vibrant charm of Bakersfield during the daylight hours, where the city's unique character, shaped by the resilience of its people, rich agricultural heritage, and vibrant music scene, comes to life. Discover the top attractions and things to do in Bakersfield that showcase the essence of this dynamic California city in the warm sunshine.
 

1. Yosemite National Park:

Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular national parks as it is renowned for its phenomenal waterfalls bevy such as Bridalveil Fall and Vernal Fall and one-of-a-kind formations of granite rocks such as El Captain and Half Dome. Be sure that you stop by the exquisite Tunnel View Overlook, which offers show-stopping views of Yosemite Valley. 

2. Sequoia National Park:

The magnificence of Sequoia National Park is well-defined by its largest, beautiful sequoia tree upon which rivers, meadows, and wildlife shower a distinctive touch.  No visit to this national park is completed without catching sight of General Sherman Tree of Giant Forest which is almost 275 feet tall and over 36 feet in diameter. Don’t forget to try out some adrenaline-rush activities such as horseback riding, rock climbing, or fishing. 

Insider’s Tip:

If you have some time, drive past Tunnel Log and climb up Moro Rock. 

3. Trail of 100 Giants:

Enjoy one of the best Bakersfield CA attractions by driving to Sequoia National Monument, spreading to 328,000 acres, to see giant sequoias. Catch sight of almost half of the gigantic sequoia groves and enjoy a family-friendly, short, and paved underrated trail. This trail offers a designated parking area on the other side of the trailhead. 

4. Lake Isabella:

Lake Isabella is a hidden gem set just one hour away from Bakersfield northeast by the side of scenic Highway 178. With plenty of fun activities to do in Bakersfield, Lake Isabella offers breathtaking lake viewpoints. Try out one of the many hiking trails, get a beer from Kern River Brewing Company, and enjoy stargazing by staying in the camp at any campground, surrounding Lake Isabella. Make sure to try whitewater rafting with Kern River Outfitters in Kern River. In winter, head to the Alta Sierra Ski Resort, offering tuning, skiing, and snowboarding from December to March.

5. Tehachapi Mountain Park:

Tehachapi Mountain Park is located southeast of Bakersfield, offering numerous outdoor adventures like camping, hiking, and mountain biking. Hike the most popular four miles long Tehachapi Mountain Trail with an elevation of 2000 feet. Enjoy a serene and shaded forest and ascend the elevation at a steady and slow pace. As you reach an elevation, the trail will become smooth while captivating you with the sweeping panoramas of Central California!

6. Kern River Canyon:

Kern River Canyon is one of the best free things to do, offering a picturesque drive by the side of Highway 178, hiking trails, riverfront picnic tables, and several hiking tracks housed within the area that surrounds the National Forest. 

Visit this Kern River Bakersfield Canyon in the chill season, late fall, or early spring when the weather is at its fullest. Hike through either Kern River Trail or Mill Creek Trail. 

7. Kings Canyon National Park

Find beautiful hiking trails by heading to Kings Canyon National Park, set close to Bakersfield California. It is close to the Sequoia National Park in the mountains of the Sierra Nevada in California. Once called a “rival to Yosemite” by John Muir, this national park is home to the colossal sequoia tree grove in the world, deep valleys, unique rock outcroppings, and skyscraping trees.

8. Three Rivers: 

Serving as the gateway to Sequoia National Park, Three Rivers, located 1 ½ hours away from the north of Bakersfield, is a scenic town, offering an amazing experience of California’s whitewater rafting. Relish the watersports by spending a day on Lake Kaweah and rent some paddle boards, aqua cycles, kayaks, or patio boats from Kaweah Marina located adjacent to the lake. Get a chill beer after enjoying fun outdoor recreational activities at the Three Rivers Brewing Co. and grab a quick meal by dropping by Sierra Subs and Salad, serving the most delicious sandwiches ever. 

9. Ventura:

Experience a quick coastal getaway by dropping at Ventura, set a couple hours of drive from Bakersfield. The mild coastal weather of Ventura remains cool even in the months of summer which offers an ultimate escape from the scorching heat of Bakersfield. From fun outdoor events to surfing lessons, mountain biking, and hiking, you won’t fall short on things to do in Bakersfield. Stretch by the San Buenaventura State Beach, stroll by the side of the bike path that goes down to Ventura Pier, enjoy food at Ventura Harbor Village, or glance at surfers catching waves by dropping at Surfers Point At Seaside Park.

10. Wind Wolves Preserve:

Stop by the fantabulous outdoor area, Wind Wolves Preserve, located just 45 minutes away from Bakersfield CA attractions. Stretches 30 square miles, this location offers numerous opportunities to spot wildlife, trek the trails, and enjoy complimentary overnight camping choices. Wind Wolves Preserve also features plant species like cacti and animals such as kit fox and Tule elk of this endangered Central Valley. 

To conclude, as the relaxing soothing twilights start to uncover from Bakersfield and as the sun begins to cast its yellow hues over Bakersfield, it transforms into a mesmerizing heaven with plenty of activities to enjoy. Day trips from Bakersfield have always been something that enchants every visitor. So these are the top things to do in Bakersfield that can be explored in the daylight, make sure to try them out!