Klamath National Forest

Klamath National Forest

Klamath National Forest is positioned in Upper California. Five wilderness areas offer nearly 200 miles of rivers and streams for fishing, camping, and hiking opportunities for those searching for quiet seclusion.

Whether you like to float down the thrilling and breathtaking Klamath River in a raft or canoe on one of the many beautiful lakes, swim in the ocean beside a sandy beach, or cool your feet in a clear stream while you lose yourself in the wonders of nature. Riding a horse, a mountain bike, or a snowmobile are all viable options.  

The combined land area of Siskiyou County, California, and Jackson County, Oregon, comprising Klamath National Forest is about 1,700,000 acres. Siskiyou County has Five protected areas: the Red Buttes, Trinity Alps, Marble Mountain, and Russian Wilderness. River enthusiasts can access over 200 miles of waterway between the Scott, Salmon, and Klamath Rivers.

Whitewater Rafting At Klamath National Forest

Before venturing into Klamath National Forest, pack your raft and life vests in your camper. Waterfalls, cascades, and rapids abound in the Klamath River, so it has been designated as a wild and scenic river. Class II rapids can be found on the Lower Klamath River, whereas class IV+ rapids are more common on the upper Klamath. Those who are not river regulars should hire a guide.

Hunting At Klamath National Forest

The Klamath National Forest is a fantastic place to go hunting, whether you’re after a massive grizzly or a tiny squirrel. Large mammals like deer, elk, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, and wild pigs are all available. You’ll find plenty here if you’re more interested in hunting rabbits and squirrels.

The Goosenest Ranger District is the greatest for big game hunting, but ranger districts known as the Salmon/Scott River Ranger District and the Happy Camp-Oak Knoll Ranger Districts are also excellent options.

Skijoring At Klamath National Forest

Despite its long history, the United States has not been a hotbed for this sport’s popularity. However, the Klamath National Forest has several great locations to select from if you want to go skiing with a horse or dog.

Skijoring is skiing, where a horse or multiple dogs pull the skier down the mountain. There are 250 miles of trails, 135 of which are groomed and located in the Goosenest Ranger District. Parks like Deer Mountain and Four Corners are perfect for skijorers and cross-country skiers.

Hang Gliding At Klamath National Forest

Pack your hang gliding gear in the RV for an excursion. Hang gliding at the Whaleback Site in Klamath National Forest is best done in Goosenest.  One of the highest points in the forest, the Whaleback Site is ideal for glass-off, cross-country, and thermal flights because of its altitude of 8,528 feet.

Turbulence, high altitude, cliff launching, and flat slope launching skills are required, and you must have at least a P2/H2 proficiency level. Information can be obtained at the Goosenest Ranger District.

Biking At Klamath National Forest

When mountain biking in the Klamath National Forest, you have your pick of trails that range from mild and scenic to extreme and challenging. Big Ditch Trail is an easy one-mile outing.

This path extends in an NE/SW direction from Greenhorn Park in Yreka. The beginning and end of the 10.6-mile Gateway Trail Loop is located on Everitt Memorial Highway, making it an ideal route for intermediate cyclists. And the singletrack Sidewinder Trail, which is 1.4 miles long, is considered challenging.

Hiking At Klamath National Forest

More than 530 kilometres of paths, ranging from under a mile to almost 20 miles, are available for hikers. The Fools Gold Trail in Yreka is a pleasant, flat, circular trail ideal for anyone seeking a relaxing stroll.

There are slightly over two kilometers on the intermediate-level Upper Goosenest Trail. It also offers a breathtaking panorama of Mount Shasta from its peak. The Klamath National Forest has 90 identified trails just begging to be explored on foot.

Address: Yreka, CA 96097, United States

Phone: +1 530-842-6131

Email: klamathinfo@fs.fed.us

Area: 7,033 km²

Management: U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service

Author

  • Mark Tony

    I'm an avid traveler and storyteller with an insatiable passion for exploring the world's hidden gems. Join me on a virtual journey as I weave tales of cultural immersion, breathtaking landscapes, and the serendipitous moments that make travel an art form. Let's embark on this adventure together, where every page is a new destination discovered.