Kern Gateway Trail Advanced Hike to the Powerhouse

# Challenge Hike: The Wild Beauty of the Kern Gateway Trail

For experienced hikers only! Join us for an exhilarating trek through one of the most breathtaking and rugged sections of the Kern Gateway Trail. This challenging hike is for those who crave adventure, as we traverse steep inclines, navigate rocky terrain, and take in the dramatic vistas of the Kern River canyon. This portion of the trail showcases some of the most spectacular scenery in the region—sheer cliffs, sweeping river views, and a sense of raw, untamed wilderness. As you push yourself through this demanding yet rewarding journey, you’ll also learn about the vision for the Kern Gateway Trail and how your support can help connect all segments, making it a fully realized outdoor destination for the community.

📅 Date: March 29th
📍 Meeting Location: We'll meet on the north side of 178 just before the mouth of the canyon to carpool as there is very limited parking at the trailhead. 35.440155, -118.794583
Kern Valley hikers meet at the Powerhouse Trailhead Parking at 9:15. 35°27'25.0"N 118°46'47.9"W
⏰ Time: 9am - 11am
🥾 Difficulty: Strenuous – Only for fit and experienced hikers; 3 miles & 1,100 feet of ascent in under one mile.
🎒 What to Bring: Sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles (strongly recommended), sunscreen/hat, plenty of water, snacks, and a sense of adventure!

This is not just a hike—it’s an opportunity to experience the power of nature while advocating for a trail that deserves to be completed. RSVP now and take on the challenge!

If you have not signed the petition in support of the Kern Gateway Trail, please sign. https://www.change.org/p/usfs-city-of-bakersfield-kern-county-create-a-hiking-trail-system-at-the-gateway-to-the-kern-canyon

*** PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY *** No one in the group is a guide or in any way responsible for your comfort or safety. Please be prepared with adequate gear and supplies for the trip. Please remember that going out into the wilderness has risks, and you should be aware and prepared to address any changes in weather and road conditions or to look out for/avoid random acts of nature, including insects, wild animals, and natural hazards. You are responsible for evaluating the difficulty of any activity you participate in and deciding whether you are prepared by having the experience, skill, knowledge, equipment, and physical and emotional stamina to participate safely.

*** WAIVER OF LIABILITY *** The Organizers and members in this group are not professional leaders, guides, or mountaineers. The function of the member or organizer is only to organize the trip. Each person who shows up for a trip/meetup (and their guest or guests) is responsible for their safety. By attending a hike or any other event organized by this group, you are acknowledging 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 Southern Sierra Hiking Club Meetup Group from and against all liability arising from your participation in the group activities.
By RSVPing, you acknowledge that you agree to the above statements.