Kern River Parkway Trail

The trail offers numerous access points along its length. You can find parking at various city parks it passes through, such as Beach Park, Hart Memorial Park, The Park at River Walk, and Yokuts Park. These parks often provide convenient parking facilities.

Yes, the trail is family-friendly and welcomes dogs, provided they are kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to keep the parkway enjoyable for everyone.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round. However, spring is particularly beautiful when the meadows are dotted with wildflowers. Fall also offers pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities. Summers can be very hot in Bakersfield, so early mornings or late afternoons are recommended during those months.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Kern River Parkway Trail itself. It's a publicly accessible multi-use trail.

The trail is predominantly a paved pathway, making it smooth and accessible for various users. However, some sections also feature parallel dirt or gravel jogging paths. While the western portion is generally gentler, the eastern half has more elevated and hilly terrain, especially near Hart Memorial Park and Lake Ming.

You'll experience a unique blend of natural riparian habitats and urban landscapes. The trail winds through preserved natural areas with native wildlife and offers views of the Kern River. Notable points of interest include the Panorama Vista Preserve with its bluff views, and the Kern River Oil Field on the eastern end. It also passes through several city parks like The Park at River Walk.

The preserved natural areas along the trail are home to various wildlife. Keep an eye out for roadrunners, rabbits, bobcats, herons, egrets, and even occasional bald eagles. You might even spot a coyote!

Yes, many sections of the Kern River Parkway Trail are considered easy and suitable for beginners, especially the flatter western portions. There's even a 5.6-mile loop segment with virtually no elevation gain. However, the eastern sections present a more noticeable challenge with more hills, so beginners might prefer to stick to the western or central parts.

Yes, the trail passes through several city parks such as Beach Park, Hart Memorial Park, and The Park at River Walk, which often include amenities like water fountains, restrooms, and picnic areas. For added safety, emergency call phones are also placed at regular intervals.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Kern River Parkway, Kern River Parkway Bike Trail, Northeast Bike path, and the Cross Valley Canal.

The Kern River Parkway Trail is primarily a long, multi-use pathway that stretches for many miles, offering both out-and-back options depending on your starting point. However, there is a notable 5.6-mile loop segment near Kern County that is popular for those looking for a circular route.