A bird sitting on a nest of eggs.

Hiking Near Penn Valley, California

Shorter Routes icon

Shorter Routes

These hikes keep it under 5 miles and climb less than 1,500 feet, making them ideal for quicker outings or lower-key days. Perfect for a morning stretch, a casual afternoon, or getting outside without committing to a big push. Don’t let the stats fool you — many still pack in great views and rewarding moments.

Point Defiance Loop Trail

Hike Route

Point Defiance Loop Trail

Lake
easy
2.69 mi
+582 ft
Alan Thiesen Trail

Hike Route

Alan Thiesen Trail

Dogs Allowed
easy
1.06 mi
+126 ft
Nisenan Loop - Deer Creek Environs Trail

Hike Route

Nisenan Loop - Deer Creek Environs Trail

Views
easy
1.66 mi
+316 ft
Orene Weatherall Trail via Cascade Canal

Hike Route

Orene Weatherall Trail via Cascade Canal

Less Crowded
easy
2.74 mi
+417 ft
Illinois Crossing Trail + Primitive Camp

Hike Route

Illinois Crossing Trail + Primitive Camp

easy
1.17 mi
+139 ft
Lake Clementine Trail

Hike Route

Lake Clementine Trail

Lake
easy
1.82 mi
+417 ft
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Adventurous Routes

These routes go beyond 10 miles and are built for days when you want to cover more ground and push a little deeper. Expect longer distances, more effort, and bigger payoffs — whether that’s remote terrain, summit views, or a full-day challenge. Ideal for hikers looking to go farther and stay out longer.

Auburn Overlook Park Western States-Quarry Trails Loop

Hike Route

Auburn Overlook Park Western States-Quarry Trails Loop

Less Crowded
extreme
19.83 mi
+3,503 ft

Other Nearby Routes

Not finding what you're looking for? These additional nearby hikes offer more ways to get outside and explore the area. With a mix of lengths, difficulty levels, and terrain, you're likely to find something that fits your plans for the day. And remember, you can always use the onX Route Builder to create your own adventure from scratch.

Shingle Falls

Hike Route

Shingle Falls

River/Creek
easy
5.13 mi
+498 ft
Hoyt Trail

Hike Route

Hoyt Trail

Less Crowded
strenuous
8.32 mi
+3,162 ft
Stevens Trail

Hike Route

Stevens Trail

Family Friendly
moderate
7.56 mi
+1,474 ft
Hidden Falls Loop

Hike Route

Hidden Falls Loop

River/Creek
moderate
8.11 mi
+922 ft
Foresthill Divide Loop

Hike Route

Foresthill Divide Loop

strenuous
9.62 mi
+1,294 ft
Olmstead Loop Trail

Hike Route

Olmstead Loop Trail

River/Creek
moderate
8.67 mi
+1,067 ft