Life in Bakersfield
Bakersfield is located in the southern end of the San Joaquin Valley in Kern County, California. It is roughly equidistant between Fresno and Los Angeles, 110 miles from either city. The Sierra Nevada Mountains are located to the east and the Tehachapi Mountains are to the south.
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The climate in Bakersfield is warm with long summers. In fact, it is ranked as one of the sunniest cities in the United States. Bakersfield enjoys long-lasting, mild autumns and early springs, with brief, cool winters. Rainfall averages only 6.5 inches annually, mostly falling during winter and spring. The mild climate allows for many outdoor activities.
Distances (in miles) from Bakersfield
Los Angeles 110
Fresno 110
Pismo Beach 145
Yosemite 170
San Diego 235
Las Vegas 289
Sacramento 272
San Francisco 288
Hart Park  |  |
Bakersfield Wilderness
Visitors to Bakersfield are suprised to find out how close the wildnerness is to the city. Recreation seekers can traverse over 100 miles of bike paths throughout metro Bakersfield or take a stroll on the Kern River Parkway.
Lower Kern River
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A short drive up the Kern River Canyon and one finds themselves in the middle of the Sequoia National Forest. Within an hour of Bakersfield visitors can hike, mountain bike, rock climb, and fly fish among moutain peaks and lush forests.
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Seasonal activities such as white water rafting, boating, snow skiing, and showshoeing are also available. Nearby Lake Isabella and Lake Ming are popular leisure areas for boaters and jet skiers.
Lake Isabella
Panorama Bluffs  | Remington Hot Springs  |
Photos taken by Kyle Brooks, MD