Trinity Alps Wilderness Overview

Located in the Shasta-Trinity, Klamath, and Six Rivers national forests in California.

The more than 585,000-acre Trinity Alps Wilderness is the second largest wilderness in California. The area, formerly known as the Salmon-Trinity Alps Primitive Area, nearly doubled in size due to the 1984 California Wilderness Act. This rugged, isolated area consists of mountain ridges and deep canyons between the Trinity and Salmon Rivers. The area contains more than 55 lakes and streams, scattered timber stands and large meadows, and barren rock cliffs and peaks. Elevations within the wilderness range from 2,000 feet to 8,000 feet. Annual precipitation is 50 inches, including up to 12 feet of snow each year.

The area is accessible from mid-June to mid-October. Bear and other wildlife are plentiful. Firewood is scarce in many areas, so portable stoves are recommended. Forage is limited so stock feed is required before July 1.

There are many trails into the Trinity Alps Wilderness. The most heavily used areas are Canyon Creek, Stuart Fork, Swift Creek, and Grizzly Creek drainages. Less frequented trails are found in the areas south of Coffee Creek Road and near Little Mill, Washbasin, and West Boulder Lakes. Visitor permits are required.

For further information contact Weaverville Ranger District in Klamath National Forest, Big Bear Ranger District in Shasta-Trinity National Forest, or Six Rivers National Forest.