Hikes in Shasta-Trinity National Forest
Discover the beauty of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest on foot—along one of the many trails within the area’s extensive network of hiking routes. Encompassing over 2,210,485 acres of combined forestlands, 10,103.4 km of rivers and streams, and five wilderness areas: Castle Crags, Chanchelulla, Mount Shasta, Trinity Alps, and Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel, the outdoor opportunities are abundant. Full of wonderment, a trip to the largest National Forest in California is a staple, attracting thousands of annual adventurers from around the globe.
A landscape characterized by the sky-scraping crests of the Klamath Mountains and the Cascade Range, rolling foothills, subalpine forests, montane meadows, and numerous alpine lakes, the combined National Forest boasts epic hiking possibilities. This wonderful natural sanctuary is relatively undiscovered in Northern California compared to Yosemite and Lake Tahoe. Enjoy the tranquility as you explore the landscape ranging from 305 m to over 4,298 m of elevation, exhibiting the diversity of the area’s native flora and fauna.
Offering family-friendly nature walks and technical summit treks, the Shasta-Trinity National Forest caters to almost all adventurers. Intrepid spirits flock to the trophy and namesake of one of the wilderness areas—Mount Shasta, a potentially active volcano that stands at 4,627 m, boasting a challenging backpacking expedition. Families and novice hikers can also enjoy the grandeur of the second-highest peak in the Cascade Range from the Lake Siskiyou Trail or one of the several other subalpine trails. Boasting a trek for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels, ages, and preferences, the Shasta-Trinity National Forest is a hiker’s haven awaiting your exploration.
The 12 Greatest Hiking Routes in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest
The topographic diversity and beauty of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest is unparalleled. Whether you are seeking an easy-going adventure to a waterfall or a technical ascent to the summit of a Trinity Alp, this wilderness area delivers. As self-proclaimed adventure experts, we took it upon ourselves to curate a list of the 12 best hiking routes in the combined National Forest; enjoy!
- Burney Falls Loop - The Burney Falls Loop is a family-friendly adventure to a picturesque waterfall flowing over 39 m from the snowmelt of encompassing mountains and through underground springs of porous volcanic rocks. This easy-going hike is a must-add to your itinerary.
- Lake Siskiyou Trail - Indulge in the commanding views of Mount Shasta dominating the skyline along the Lake Siskiyou Trail. This charming lakeside adventure can be enjoyed by hikers of all skill levels and ages.
- McCloud Falls Trail - There is nothing better than a waterfall hike, and the McCloud Falls Trail exceeds all expectations—offering a collection of three picturesque cascades. In the summer months, hikers can cool off in the slow-moving pool along the McCloud River.
- Heart Lake Trail - Explore the high country and marvel in panoramic views of the Klamath Mountains along the Heart Lake Trail. This wonderful adventure climbs up the granite cliffs of Castle Lake before reaching the small, heart-shaped alpine pool.
- Potem Falls Trail - The Potem Falls Trail is a short but scenic trek to a charming cascade in the National Forest. Offering a wonderful swimming hole, intrepid adventurers can swing into the refreshing waters via a rope swing. This hike beckons adventurers seeking an escape from the Californian summer heat.
- Hedge Creek Falls Trail - Another waterfall adventure? Of course! The Hedge Creek Falls Trail is a unique excursion that travels to a charming veil that surges over an overhang. Explore the cave behind the cascades then hike down to the Sacramento River and indulge in views of Mount Shasta.
- Lake Helen Hike - The Lake Helen Hike is a demanding adventure up the southwestern slope of the famous Mount Shasta. Intrepid adventurers can climb halfway up the potentially active volcano to an often bare glacial lake and high camp.
- Pluto’s Cave Trail - Explore a lava tunnel along the skirts of Mount Shasta along Pluto’s Cave Trail. This epic expedition into the cavern is sure to impress with its 15 m tall ceilings and skylights that illuminate the cave.
- Landers Lake Loop - Put your endurance to the test and indulge in the topographic diversity of the area along the Landers Lake Loop. This awesome adventure culminates at a crystalline alpine bounded by the Trinity Alps—boasting a postcard-perfect scene.
- Mount Eddy via Deadfall Lakes Trail - Immerse yourself in the alpine terrain along Mount Eddy via Deadfall Lakes Trail. Explore alpine pools before summiting Mount Eddy, which offers panoramic vistas of the Klamath Mountains and commanding views of Mount Shasta.
- Black Butte Trail - Reserved for experienced hikers, the Black Butte Trail is a demanding adventure that reveals wonderful panoramas of Mount Shasta from the summit. Note the terrain is incredibly rocky, so wear a pair of ankle bracing footwear—you'll thank us later.
- Kangaroo Lake Trail - With a name like that, how could it not be fun? The Kangaroo Lake Trail is a fun family hike along the shoreline of a crystalline lake hemmed by craggy granite bluffs. In the summer months, this is a great place to cool off!
When is the Best Time to Visit the Shasta-Trinity National Forest?
The beauty of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest is that it can be explored year-round. Though open and accessible to adventurers all year, we argue the best time to visit the National Forest is from May through September. The summer months are the warmest and driest, boasting wonderful outdoor opportunities, from hiking and biking to abundant water recreation activities. When exploring the high country in the winter months, it is important to be aware of the possibility of avalanches and winter storms—which have proven extremely dangerous. No matter the season, be sure to check the forecast before exploring!
Other Outdoor Activities in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest
The Shasta-Trinity National Forest is awaiting your exploration. Offering an abundance of hiking routes through the five wilderness areas and two National Forests, this area is undoubtedly a hiker’s haven. Explore the diverse topography on foot for the most immersive experience! Adorned with numerous streams, rivers, and alpine lakes, the National Forest offers wonderful water recreation opportunities. Fishing, swimming, paddle boarding, boating, tubing, and water skiing are all popular activities in the summer months.
In addition to hiking and water recreation, the wilderness area is a popular camping and nature viewing destination. Visitors don’t even have to leave the comforts of their cars—though we encourage you to do so— as there are nationally designated scenic byways within the Shasta-Trinity National Forest! When exploring in the winter months, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, backcountry skiing, and snowmobiling opportunities are plentiful. Though the outdoor pursuits are abundant, the unrivaled scenery and grandeur of the combined National Forest are reason enough to visit.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Shasta-Trinity National Forests
Is Shasta Lake in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest?
Yes, Shasta Lake, which is the largest man-made lake in California, is located within the Shasta-Trinity National Forest.
Are there redwoods in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest?
No, there are no redwoods in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. Redwoods are common to the coastal region of Northern California, specifically in the Redwoods National and State Parks.
Can you camp in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest?
Yes, there are dispersed backcountry camping and designated camping opportunities in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest.
What state is the Shasta-Trinity National Forest in?
The Shasta-Trinity National Forest is located in Northern California.
Is Mount Shasta active?
Mount Shasta is a potentially active volcano in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest.
Awesome Adventure Tours near the Shasta-Trinity National Forest
Unfortunately, we have yet to curate a specific adventure tour for the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. Keep checking back as we are always adding to our repertoire. Until then, we encourage you to check our California adventure tours. If you have a trip in mind, don’t hesitate to contact us! We can customize an adventure for you—giving you exactly what you want.
Find Other Amazing Hiking Regions in California
Best Hikes in Shasta-Trinity National Forest
Toad Lake Trail
Leading hikers through meadows and tree stands to a charming alpine lake, the Toad Lake Trail can be enjoyed by adventurers of all skill levels and ages. This route can be explored year-round, offering awe-inspiring views of the high-country for you to indulge in.
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Mount Shasta City Park Loop
Reconnect with nature and stretch your legs along the Mount Shasta City Park Loop. This awesome adventure boasts the perfect opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Family-friendly and incredibly scenic, this adventure is a must-add to your hiking itinerary.
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Bear Lakes Hike
The Bear Lakes Hike is a demanding adventure through the high-country that offers a diversity of flora and fauna. Exhibiting the grandeur and beauty of the terrain, this path culminates at several crystalline alpine lakes bounded by craggy granite bluffs.
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Granite Peak Trail
The Granite Peak Trail is a high-effort, high-reward type of adventure in the Shasta-Trinity National Forests. This trek is no walk in the park, but the panoramic alpine vistas from the summit prove well worth the sweat. What are you waiting for? Let’s go!
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Porcupine Lake Trail
The Porcupine Lake Trail leads intrepid adventurers through diverse topographies up to a charming alpine lake. Exhibiting the diversity of the area’s flora and fauna, this stimulating high country hike will not disappoint.
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Bailey Cove Loop
Wander along the shoreline of Shasta Lake and marvel in the sights of the vibrant banks that bound the waters along the Bailey Cove Loop. This amazing adventure can be enjoyed by hikers of all skill levels and ages year-round.
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Terrace and Cliff Lakes Hike
Immerse yourself in the picture-perfect terrain along the Terrace and Cliff Lakes Hike. This incredibly scenic adventure through the high country exhibits not one but four crystalline alpine lakes bound by granite bluffs. This beautiful trek is not one you want to skip out on.
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Lewiston Lake Trail
The Lewiston Lake Trail is an amazing nature trail along the shoreline of Lewiston Lake on the Trinity River. Wander through a forest of mixed conifers and vibrant wildflowers whilst enjoying the sounds of the crashing waves on the shoreline below. This epic adventure is a must-add to your adventure itinerary.
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Caribou Lakes Trail
The Caribou Lakes Trail is a demanding feat in the Trinity Alps Wilderness that requires an intrepid spirit. This popular backpacking route can be completed as a strenuous day hike for eager explorers. Immerse yourself in the backcountry and marvel at the topographic diversity of Northern California.
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Boulder Lakes Hike
The Boulder Lakes Hike is a family-friendly adventure into the high country that culminates at a set of charming alpine lakes. Explore the meadowlands abundant with flora and the dense conifer forestlands before reaching the picture-perfect pools nestled amongst the Trinity Alps.
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Swift Creek Trail
The Swift Creek Hike is a wonderful adventure that beckons intrepid spirits and experienced hikers seeking a challenge. Explore the Trinity Alps Wilderness as you wander amongst towering snow-capped peaks to mountain basins adorned with alpine lakes. Though demanding, this trek is well worth the sweat.
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Granite Lake via Swift Creek Trail
The Granite Lake via Swift Creek Trail is an ideal adventure for intermediate hikers and families with older children. The high country is awaiting your exploration, and this hike is a great way to do just that! Hike through forested valleys and alpine meadows up to the crystalline lake.
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Old Ski Bowl Trail
The Old Ski Bowl Trail is a scenic adventure along the southern slope of Mount Shasta that intermediate hikers and families with older children can enjoy. This wonderful adventure boasts breathtaking scenery of the Cascade Range and the Klamath Mountains.
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Caldwell Lakes Trail
Indulge yourself in the beauty of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest along the Caldwell Lakes Trail. This scenic high-country hike travels up to a collection of charming alpine lakes nestled amongst the Trinity Alps, rewarding epic vistas of Mount Shasta commanding the skyline.
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Big Bear Lake Trail
The Big Bear Lake Trail is a beautiful adventure through the alpine environment. Explore lush conifer forests, montane meadows, and wander past charming cascades on your way up to the mountain basin. This hike is unrivaled in its beauty, and we cannot recommend it enough.
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Boulder Lakes Loop
The Boulder Lakes Loop is an awesome hike ideal for intermediate hikers and families with older children. Featuring beautiful alpine lakes, unrivaled mountain views, and mountain meadows, this hike packs plenty of scenery to indulge in.
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East Boulder Lake via PCT
Immerse yourself in the high country and marvel in the beauty of the alpine environment along the East Boulder Lake via PCT. This wonderful adventure to the meadow bound lake is one for the books! Though demanding, the stunning scenery is well worth the sweat.
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South Fork Coffee Creek Loop
Discover the untouched backcountry along the South Fork Coffee Creek Loop. This primitive adventure through the Trinity Alps Wilderness exhibits the diversity of the area’s native flora and fauna whilst offering a tranquil, isolated experience.
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North Fork Coffee Creek Trail
A good hike is the best kind of medicine. Immerse yourself in the wilderness, let the fresh mountain air fill your lungs, and reconnect with nature along the North Fork Coffee Creek Trail. Located in the Trinity Alps Wilderness, this route offers unrivaled scenery.
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Porcupine and Toad Lakes Hike
Short, steep, and scenic are three words that best describe the Porcupine and Toad Lakes Hike. Hike through mountain meadows and towering tree stands not one but two shimmering alpine lakes that boast wonderful views of Mount Shasta and the Castle Crags.