You can stop anywhere along the nearly 4-mile trail from Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary to Harding Falls and find yourself in a lovely canyon setting. About halfway up, at the base of the canyon, crystal-clear pools of cool water await. But this is one of those ultimately strenuous trails that only rewards those who push themselves the farthest—in distance, body fatigue and potential danger. After hopping boulders, navigating rough terrain and avoiding poison oak, a hiker finally cashes in on the sight of the majestic Harding Falls. Make sure to save something in the tank for the trek back, as it takes about three hours to reach the falls, and while that hike is easier, it can still kick your butt. Enter opposite the Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary, off Modjeska Canyon Road in Silverado.
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