Hiking Trails That Start Inside Pine Mountain Club

One of my favorite things about living in Pine Mountain Club is that I can walk out my door and be on a trail in minutes. You don't need to drive to a trailhead or deal with parking passes — some of the best hiking in the Frazier Mountain area starts right inside the community. For a full overview of every trail in the area, check out the PMC hiking trails page.

The Botanical Garden Trail

This is the trail I recommend to everyone who visits PMC for the first time. It's a gentle loop through a curated section of native plants, wildflowers, and labeled species. In spring, it's stunning — lupine, Indian paintbrush, and manzanita blooms everywhere. The trail is well-maintained by the POA and is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. It's an easy 30-minute walk that gives you a real sense of what makes this mountain special.

POA Community Trails

Beyond the Botanical Garden, the POA maintains several trail segments that wind through different parts of the community. These range from flat, easy paths along the golf course to steeper routes through wooded hillsides. Some connect neighborhoods that would otherwise require driving, making them practical for daily walks as well as recreational hiking. I use them regularly and almost always see deer, squirrels, and the occasional turkey along the way.

Connecting to the National Forest

Several PMC trails connect to the broader Los Padres National Forest trail system. Once you're on national forest land, the options expand dramatically — you can hike toward Mt. Pinos, explore ridge trails, or loop through miles of backcountry. These connector trails are the real gems for experienced hikers who want longer outings without the drive to a separate trailhead.

Seasonal Access and Conditions

• Spring (March-May): Trails can be muddy from snowmelt but wildflowers are at their peak
• Summer (June-August): Best conditions, but watch for afternoon heat on exposed sections
• Fall (September-November): Cool temps, golden light, fewer people — the best hiking season
• Winter (December-February): Many trails are snow-covered; bring traction devices for icy spots

Trail Etiquette and Wildlife

PMC trails are shared by hikers, dog walkers, and occasionally horseback riders. Keep dogs on leash in common areas, pack out what you pack in, and yield to horses on shared paths. You're also in bear country — make noise on the trail, don't leave food out, and give wildlife plenty of space. Most encounters are harmless, but being aware matters.

If you're considering a home in PMC and trail access is important to you, I can help you find properties near the best trailheads. Some lots literally back up to POA trails or national forest land — and there's nothing quite like having that kind of access right outside your back door.