River Gorge Trail loop

This is a hike down the Kern River Gorge through Keyesville South. There is a nice trail to follow, but are a few sections of off trail hiking and some mild rock scrambling. Lots of places to take pictures of how the river has cut its way through the bedrock. A very beautiful section of the Kern to hike. We will start at the Keyesville South campground and hike down the River Gorge Trail to the Vista Ridge Trail. We will take the Vista Ridge Trail to Keysville South Peak and stop for a snack break at the top. The Vista Ridge Trail is a gradual climb, 600' total gain, to a nice peak that overlooks Lake Isabella and the Wetlands. After our break we will continue on the Vista Ridge Trail back to the cars at Keysville South Campground. The total distance of the hike will be just over 4 miles.

Hike plan:
9:03am Meet and Greet at the Keysville South Campground in the dirt parking area by the dumpsters. Start hiking at 9:13. Since this is a relatively short hike, we will maintain a mild, easy pace throughout. We will make several stops along the gorge to regather, take photos, and snack. We will make our last stop at the peak and have lunch before heading down and back to the cars. Should take around 3 hours.

*** WAIVER OF LIABILITY *** The Organizers and members in this group are not professional hiking guides. Each person who shows up for a trip/meetup (and their guest or guests) is responsible for his or her own safety. By attending a hike, or any other event organized by this group, you are acknowledging that you and any guests that you bring are aware of the risks, dangers and hazards associated with the activity and freely accept and fully assume all such risks, dangers and hazards, and further agree to release and discharge the Organizers, Members of the Kern Valley Hiking Club + Meetup Group from and against any and all liability arising from your participation in the group activities.

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