A Hike Through Time, Art, and Mystery
Some hikes impress you with views.
Others surprise you with stories.
Hiking Lake Hodges did both — quietly and unexpectedly. What began as a straightforward out-and-back turned into a walk through early water engineering, subtle trail art, wildfire reminders, and one lingering mystery that stuck with me long after I left the trail.
I parked across from Hernandez Hideaway, crossed the road, and headed south toward the dam. From the first steps, this hike felt like more than just mileage.