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Whiskeytown National Recreational AreaHiker at Brandy Creek Falls
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Whiskeytown National Recreational Area
Hiking

Waterfalls, Old-growth Forests, Historic Landscapes
While the primary focus for Whiskeytown visitors is water recreation the park also contains cool rugged canyons, forests, streams and waterfalls. What a perfect way to see abundant wildflowers in the spring, experience the glory of fall colors or catch a glimpse of the past as well as view wildlife in their natural habitat. Mountain trails along shaded corridors and eight year-round creeks offer a refreshing break from the summer's heat.

Whether hiking, mountain biking or horseback riding - the land surrounding Whiskeytown provides many opportunities for these activities.

For a listing of all of our trails click here. Individual trail guides are also available (see below) or at the Visitor Center. Check with the Visitor Center for current trail conditions.

Summers can be hot and dry. Consider hiking in the early morning to avoid the heat of the day.

Winters can be cold, with possible snow and/or ice. Always be prepared for changing weather conditions and stay on established trails.

Indian Warrior wildflowers on the trail.

NPS photo - 2005

Indian Warrior wildflowers along the trail.

Easy Hikes -
(prints 8½" x 11" color in pdf format)

Buck Hollow
Camden Water Ditch
Crystal Creek Water Ditch
Oak Bottom Water Ditch

 

 
Mountain bikers on trail.

Redding Mountain Biking - 2005

Whiskeytown is known for some of the best mountain biking in the area.

Moderate Hikes

Boulder Creek Falls (via South Shore Drive)
Boulder Creek Falls (Mill Creek Road access)

Brandy Creek Falls
Clear Creek Canal
Clear Creek Vista
Davis Gulch
Guardian Rock
Logging Camp
Lower Brandy Creek
Mt. Shasta Mine Loop 
Mule Mountain Pass
Peltier Trail
Salt Creek Loop
Salt Gulch

 
Lone hiker at recently re-discoverd waterfall.

NPS photo - 2005

Lone hiker viewing the recently re-discovered waterfall.

Moderate to Difficult Hikes

Mill Creek
Kanaka Peak - Currently Closed (4/29/09)
James K. Carr Trail (Whiskeytown Falls)
Papoose Pass Trail

 

 

Proper equipment, good conditioning, and a
healthy regard for weather and wilderness
conditions will serve to enhance your visit.
Stay on established roads and trails and notify
someone of your travel plans.

Drawing of mammoth skeleton  

Did You Know?
In 1994 the Idaho Fish and Game Department drained Tolo Lake, a site of Nez Perce National Historical Park, for a restoration project. In the lake bottom, six to eight Columbian mammoth skeletons were found. A replica skeleton is on display in Grangeville, Idaho

Last Updated: August 28, 2009 at 20:10 EST