Lost Hills Travel Guide

Discover the natural and cultural attractions, best things to do, food and drink scene, and tips for traveling to Lost Hills, California.


Introduction to Lost Hills

Nestled in the Kern County, in San Joaquin Valley, California, Lost Hills is a small town boasting of immense natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures that will leave you in awe. Despite its small size, the town is a perfect destination for travelers looking for a peaceful retreat away from the crowd and noise of big cities.

List of Places to Visit in Lost Hills

Whether you’re looking for a culturally enlightening experience, outdoor adventure, or breathtaking scenery, Lost Hills will provide you with diverse options to choose from. Here is a list of the top attractions to visit in Lost Hills:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Lost Hills Historical Society and Museum: This museum will take you through the history of the town, showcasing its significance and cultural contribution to the region. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and art illustrating the town’s past.

  • Casa De Fruta: Known for its fruit stands, Casa De Fruta is an iconic attraction of Lost Hills. The attraction is a farm that offers a wide range of activities, including wine tasting, camping, and a petting zoo.

  • Buttonwillow Raceway Park: For adrenaline junkies, the Buttonwillow Raceway Park is a haven for car racing and motorsports. The park is a popular hangout spot for locals and tourists alike.

Natural Attractions of Lost Hills: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kern National Wildlife Refuge: This wildlife refuge is home to different species of migratory birds and animals. The refuge is open to visitors for hiking, bird watching and camping.

  • Carrizo Plain National Monument: Situated on the edge of the San Joaquin Valley, the Carrizo Plain National Monument is a breathtaking expanse of grassland, wildflowers, and jagged rock formations. Exploring this monument is an excellent activity for nature lovers and hikers.

  • Buena Vista Lake: Buena Vista Lake is a serene body of water that offers fishing, boating, and picnicking activities. This attraction is perfect for families and couples looking for a relaxing escape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lost Hills

Lost Hills provide an array of scenic hiking and biking trails suitable for travelers of all ages and skill levels. The famous spots include:

  • Kern River Parkway Trail: A scenic river trail in the middle of Bakersfield offering hiking and biking options.

  • The Buttonwillow Trail: A 5.7-mile loop trail offering stunning views of wildflowers, wildlife, and the surrounding area.

  • Temblor Range Trail: This trail is ideal for mountain biking, offering breathtaking views of surrounding mountains and vegetation.

Best Things to Do in Lost Hills: Activities and Tours

Lost Hills offers endless opportunities for fun-filled activities and tours for its visitors. Here are some of the best things to do in Lost Hills:

  • Horseback Riding at the Bar SZ Ranch: The Bar SZ Ranch is a vast ranch that features horseback riding and various equestrian activities. This attraction offers a unique experience of exploring Lost Hills’s beautiful natural surroundings on horseback.

  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: This attraction will take you high over the beautiful Lost Hills landscape, giving a breathtaking panoramic view of the region.

  • Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tours: Lost Hills has several vineyards and wineries that offer wine tasting and vineyard tours. This attraction is perfect for wine enthusiasts looking to taste and learn about local wines.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lost Hills

For visitors who have a week to spend in Lost Hills, we recommend the following itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Lost Hills’ Historical Society and Museum.
Day 2 Visit the Carrizo Plain National Monument and go hiking or biking.
Day 3 Go horseback riding at the Bar SZ Ranch.
Day 4 Take a hot air balloon ride over the scenic landscape of Lost Hills.
Day 5 Go on a vineyard tour and wine tasting.
Day 6 Spend the day fishing or boating at Buena Vista Lake.
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the leisurely pace of life in Lost Hills.

This itinerary provides a perfect balance between cultural, outdoor, and leisurely activities.

Food and Drink Scene of Lost Hills

Lost Hills is known for its rich culinary heritage, which includes a wide range of delicious dishes and beverages. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pupusas: Pupusas are a popular Salvadorian food consisting of a thick corn tortilla filled with seasoned meats, cheeses, and other ingredients.

  • Tri-Tip Sandwich: This sandwich is a delicious treat made with tri-tip beef, grilled to perfection, and served on a delicious bread roll.

  • Green Chile Cheeseburger: This burger is a Southwest specialty, made with juicy grilled beef and topped with hot green chiles and melted cheese.

Local Beverages

  • California Wine: Lost Hills has several wineries that produce excellent wine, which visitors can sample on vineyard tours.

  • Beer: Lost Hills has several local breweries offering unique and flavorsome beer tasting experiences.

Where to Stay in Lost Hills: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lost Hills has plenty of options when it comes to accommodations. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly hostel or a luxurious hotel, Lost Hills has something for everyone. Here are some of the best options:

  • Motel 6 Lost Hills: A budget-friendly motel that provides basic amenities, perfect for travelers on a budget.

  • Best Western Plus Wasco Inn & Suites: A modern hotel located near several of Lost Hills’ attractions.

  • Courtyard by Marriott Bakersfield: A luxurious hotel located a short drive from Lost Hills, offering high-quality amenities and excellent service.

What to Buy in Lost Hills: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Lost Hills provides visitors the opportunity to go back home with unique souvenirs and locally made products. Some of the products worth buying include:

  • Fruit and Vegetables: Lost Hills is known for its fresh produce, which includes delicious fruits like cherries, raspberries, and apples.

  • Wine: Several local wineries offer visitors the chance to purchase locally made wine.

  • Artifacts: The Lost Hill Historical Society and Museum’s gift shop sells several artifacts and souvenirs, including t-shirts, hats, and postcards.

Local Culture and Customs of Lost Hills

Lost Hills is a town with a rich cultural heritage, influenced by diverse ethnicities. The town has a vibrant artistic community that produces stunning art, music, and food. Visitors to Lost Hills should respect the local customs and culture when visiting and interacting with the locals.

Best Time to Visit Lost Hills

The best time to visit Lost Hills is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. The town experiences hot and dry summers and mild winters.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lost Hills

Visitors to Lost Hills should follow some important do’s and don’ts to have a safe and comfortable stay.

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Follow the rules and regulations of the outdoor attractions.

  • Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.

Don’t:

  • Litter or harm the natural surroundings.

  • Engage in any illegal activities.

  • Be disrespectful or rude to the locals.

Safety and Health

Lost Hills is a safe and healthy town to visit. However, visitors should follow some basic safety tips and stay hydrated during hot weather conditions.

Safety in Lost Hills

  • Follow traffic rules and wear seatbelts while driving.

  • Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid leaving valuables unattended.

  • Stay alert while hiking and biking and carry a map and emergency supplies.

Health in Lost Hills

  • Visitors should stay hydrated and drink plenty of water, especially during hot weather conditions.

  • Visitors should carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats to avoid sunburn.

  • Visitors should carry insect repellents to avoid insect bites and possible infections.

Getting to Lost Hills: Transportation Options and Logistics

Lost Hills is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, including flights, buses, and cars. Here’s how to get to Lost Hills:

Airports Near Lost Hills

  • Meadows Field Airport at Bakersfield, California, is the nearest airport, located about 45 miles away from Lost Hills.

  • Los Angeles International Airport is situated 120 miles away from Lost Hills, offering several flight services.

Bus Stations Near Lost Hills

  • The Greyhound Bus is the most common bus service that stops in Lost Hills.

Other Options

Visitors can also opt to drive to Lost Hills since the town is easily accessible from Interstate 5.

How to Get Around in Lost Hills

The best way to explore Lost Hills is by car. Driving offers visitors the flexibility to explore the town’s vast natural landscapes and surrounding regions comfortably. Alternatively, visitors can opt to bike or hike to get around the town.

Where to Go Next from Lost Hills: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Lost Hills, visitors can consider visiting the following nearby destinations:

  • Bakersfield: Located less than an hour’s drive away from Lost Hills, Bakersfield is a vibrant city that offers visitors an array of activities, including shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation.

  • Frazier Park: Frazier Park is a great destination for visitors looking for an outdoor adventure. This area is popular for hiking, rock climbing, and skiing in the nearby winter months.

  • Los Angeles: Located around two hours’ drive away from Lost Hills, Los Angeles has a plethora of attractions, including theme parks, museums, and entertainment venues.

Conclusion

Lost Hills offers a unique combination of natural beauty, diverse cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat from the urban chaos. This comprehensive travel guide provides all the crucial information visitors need to know before planning a trip to Lost Hills.