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California
15.0 mi
Distance
2,198 ft
Gain
We won't guess. Here is exactly what we do and don't know.
What we do know
Inside Eldorado National Forest
2 managing-area boundaries mapped — agency alerts for them feed this page automatically.
Boundary data
What's missing
No access route mapped
We don't yet know which road reaches this trailhead, so we can't tell you if it's gated.
Nobody's filed a report here yet — be the first.
Why you'll love it
Hellhole
AI-suggested draft · review before you go
No permit or access details on file for this trail — check with the local land manager before you go.
Hellhole is a challenging 15-mile round-trip adventure that climbs over 2,200 feet through rugged California terrain. This remote trail offers solitude and dramatic scenery as it traverses steep sections and exposed ridgelines. The route is best suited for experienced hikers seeking a full-day wilderness experience away from crowded paths.
Middle Meadow
~5 min drive
Moderate 4.2-mile meadow hike with 1,317 ft elevation gain.
Steamboat
~6 min drive
Steep 1.45-mile climb with 1,047 ft elevation gain near Steamboat.
Gerle Creek Trail
~10 min drive
Easy 1.5-mile creek-side walk with minimal elevation gain.
Greyhorse
~11 min drive
Steep 3.86-mile climb with 1,676 ft elevation gain near Greyhorse, California.
Mckinstry
~8 min drive
Moderate 7.6-mile trail with 380 ft elevation gain near Mckinstry.
Telemark Loop
~11 min drive
Easy 2.21-mile loop perfect for a quick California hike.
Polaris
~12 min drive
Extreme alpine climb with 6,882 ft gain in 4.5 miles—expert mountaineers only.
Buckskin
~10 min drive
Easy 2-mile trail with 484 ft gain near Buckskin, California.
Berts Lake
~12 min drive
Easy 1.67-mile alpine lake hike with 306 ft elevation gain.
Duncan
~13 min drive
Moderate 5.15-mile trail with steady elevation gain near Duncan, California.