Alder Creek Vista is located on the western border of the Golden Trout Wilderness. The vista point provides spectacular views on clear days. To the east one can see the southern most portion of the Great Western Divide. Coyote Peak, Angora Peak, and White Mountain are located here. To the west views of the Sequoia National Forest, Mountain Home State Forest, and residences of the San Joaquin Valley are visible.
Download Trip Map -> Alder Creek Vista Map
The day hike is a 4 mile round trip. Start off by heading east along HWY 190. Take a left on Forest Service Road 21S50 to where the road ends. A Golden Trout Wilderness Pack Station sign indicates the Forest Service Road from HWY 190. Once at the end of the forest service road park the vehicle and start on the Summit Trail going in a northwestern direction. Within about 100 feet or so the trail enters into the Golden Trout Wilderness.
The first part of the trail is downhill to South Mountaineer Creek. A dispersed campsite is located near the crossing. Once across the trail ascends up to Alder Creek Vista. A lot of trees fell down due to 2010/2011 winter season. Trail crews reopened the trail, so passage should be fairly easy. Observe the moss high up on the fir trees indicating approximate snow heights. The trail will continue to zigzag in places until you reach the rocky outcrop of Alder Creek Vista. There is no sign indicating a vista point, but if traveled on a clear day it should be obvious.
Golden Trout Wilderness 