Tehachapi Pass to Golden Oaks Spring

Tehachapi Pass to Golden Oaks Spring is a 30.8-mile out-and-back along a singletrack trail in the Tehachapi Mountains. Starting from Highway 58, the route follows the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) uphill to the year-round, shade covered Golden Oaks Spring. This route can be completed as a lengthy day trek, but is best suited as an overnight backpacking trip. The challenging, yet easy-to-follow and well-maintained singletrack trail is open to runners, hikers, backpackers, and horseback riders.

Starting from Highway 58, the route ascends the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) to the top of a scenic ridge overlooking Waterfall Canyon. Within the first six miles, the trail gains over 2,000 feet of elevation, crossing through unique biodiversity and offering expansive views of the San Joaquin Valley and Mojave Desert. After the initial climb the trail evens out and follows a rolling traverse through pinyon pine and oak woodlands. At the halfway point of the trail, Golden Oaks Spring serves as the turnaround point and offers a nice camping area and relatively reliable water (may not be flowing during extreme drought years).

TEHACHAPI MOUNTAINS GEOGRAPHY

Located between Los Angeles County and Kern County, the Tehachapi Mountains extend for approximately 40 miles and are part of California's Transverse Ranges (east-west trending ranges). Located between the Mojave Desert and the San Joaquin Valley, this range stretches from the southwest to the northeast connecting to the Sierra Nevada range. 

WATER

You can find a crowd-sourced water report for all areas along the Pacific Crest Trail at https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/backcountry-basics/water/pct-water-report/.

WHEN TO GO

Even though this route is accessible year-round, it is best to avoid days of extreme heat.

CONSIDERATIONS

There is little shade and no water along the way. Visitors should plan to wear sun protective clothing and bring plenty of food and water. Make sure to store food and other scented items properly as this is also an active bear area.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Pacific Crest Trail Association