The Park at River Walk – Yokuts Park loop from Liberty High School

If you're looking for a convenient and varied jogging route directly from Liberty High School in Bakersfield, the Park at River Walk – Yokuts Park loop delivers a moderate 6.8-mile (10.9 km) experience with a minimal 26 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 7 minutes. This route is ideal for local joggers seeking a blend of urban parkland and natural river views without a significant time commitment, making it one of the more popular routes for a quick, refreshing run.

What to expect on The Park at River Walk – Yokuts Park loop from Liberty High School

This jogging route primarily utilizes sections of the Kern River Parkway Trail, offering a journey through diverse scenery. You'll find yourself moving from paved bike lanes to parallel dirt or gravel paths, providing varied surfaces underfoot. The highlight is undoubtedly The Park at River Walk, an oasis featuring two interconnected lakes, pedestrian bridges, and native landscaping, offering a peaceful setting. Further along, Yokuts Park provides extensive green spaces and family-friendly areas. The effort is generally easy and flat, making it suitable for most fitness levels, though the varied terrain keeps it engaging for regular runners.

Planning your visit

While there isn't a formally named trail directly from Liberty High School, you'll navigate local streets to access the Kern River Parkway Trail, which then connects to both The Park at River Walk and Yokuts Park. Both parks offer numerous access points and parking lots along the KRP Trail. Given the flat terrain and urban-adjacent setting, this route is enjoyable year-round, though early mornings or late afternoons are best to avoid the midday heat, especially in warmer months.

Trail details

• Distance: 6.8 miles (10.9 km)
• Elevation gain: 26 feet (8 metres)
• Difficulty: moderate
• Estimated time: 1 hours and 7 minutes