The Trinity Alps Wilderness is a rugged and remote mountainous region in northern California known for its alpine lakes, granite peaks, and diverse wildlife.
One of the most popular destinations in the Trinity Alps Wilderness, Canyon Creek Lakes offers stunning alpine scenery, crystal clear waters, and excellent hiking opportunities. The hike to the lakes is a moderate 7-mile trek, with a gradual elevation gain through lush forests and open meadows. Once at the lakes, visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and camping in the pristine wilderness surroundings.
Located in a remote and rugged section of the Trinity Alps, Caribou Lakes is a hidden gem for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts. The hike to the lakes is challenging, with steep switchbacks and rocky terrain, but the reward is well worth the effort. Surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers, the lakes offer a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude and adventure in the wilderness.
Granite Lake is a popular day hike destination in the Trinity Alps Wilderness, known for its stunning granite cliffs and emerald waters. The hike to the lake is relatively short, just 3 miles round trip, making it accessible for hikers of all skill levels. Once at the lake, visitors can relax on the rocky shores, swim in the cool waters, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
The Four Lakes Loop is a challenging but rewarding backpacking route in the Trinity Alps Wilderness, showcasing some of the most scenic spots in the area. The loop takes hikers past four beautiful alpine lakes – Diamond, Luella, Sapphire, and Mirror – each with its own unique charm. The route also offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, lush meadows, and dense forests, making it a favorite among experienced backpackers.
For those seeking a true mountaineering adventure, the summit of the Trinity Alps is a must-visit destination. Standing at over 9,000 feet, the summit offers sweeping views of the entire wilderness area, including rugged peaks, deep valleys, and pristine lakes. The ascent to the summit is challenging and requires technical climbing skills, but the sense of accomplishment and the breathtaking views make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
Description: The first lake I passed on the trip, Boulder Lake was glassy and pleasantly temperate.
Image by David Bakken – CC BY-SA 2.0 – Wikimedia
Description: An alpine lake with waterfalls from the granite cliffs, high in the Trinity Alps Wilderness. In the Trinity Alps—Klamath Mountains, northern California.
Image by Prindleman – CC BY-SA 3.0 – Wikimedia
Description: Photo by Stacy Smith, Special Uses Officer, Shasta-Trinity National Forest
Image by Pacific Southwest Region 5 – Public domain – Wikimedia
Description: Pinus balfouriana, Trinity Alps Long Canyon Trail, Klamath Mountains, California
Image by Miguel Vieira from Walnut Creek, CA, USA – CC BY 2.0 – Wikimedia
Description: Young Pinus balfouriana, Trinity Alps Wilderness, Klamath Mountains, California.
Image by Tom Hilton – CC BY 2.0 – Wikimedia
Description: Pinus balfouriana — Foxtail pine. In the Trinity Alps Wilderness of the Trinity Alps—Klamath Mountains, northern California.
Image by Trinity_Alps_Wilderness_with_Pinus_balfouriana.jpg: Tom Hilton derivative work: MPF (talk) – CC BY 2.0 – Wikimedia
Description: 500px provided description: Trinity Alps Wilderness []
Image by J Doll – CC BY 3.0 – Wikimedia
Description: The sign welcoming you to the Trinity Alps Wilderness on the Canyon Creek Trail. In the Trinity Alps—Klamath Mountains, Shasta-Trinity National Forest, northern California.
Image by Greg Grossmeier – CC BY-SA 3.0 – Wikimedia