Intersecting over 400 miles of northern California’s vast wilderness -- including the Klamath mountain range and the Six Rivers national forest -- the Bigfoot Trail encompasses coniferous forests, lakes and mountains. The trailhead begins in the Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel Wilderness and terminates near Crescent City. The strenuous nature of the trail restricts it to seasoned hikers; it features steep climbs and changes in altitude.
The northern California portion of the Pacific Crest Trail winds to an eventual elevation of 7,600 feet. The ideal geographic conditions produce an abundance of flora and fauna ranging from lupine and larkspur to raccoon and black bear. Hikers are challenged by the rapidly changing elevation of the trail, which takes in the Cascade range, the Marble Mountains and the Klamath River. The trail can be joined from various locations -- including Truckee -- and continues north to Canada.
The conveniently located Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve Trail -- at just less than 12 miles -- makes for an ideal one-day hike. Open from sunrise to sunset, highlights of the trail include Mt. Umunhum at 3,486 ft., Rincon Creek, fir and oak forests and a wealth of animal life. Other sights include sweeping views of Santa Clara County and the beautiful Monterey Bay. The trailhead begins on Mount Umunhum Road and ends by the Lexington Reservoir.
Straddling the state line between California and Nevada -- and running through six separate counties -- the Tahoe Rim Trail offers 165 miles of outstanding views and natural beauty. The diverse range of flora includes white fir, aspen, cedar and pines. Wildlife includes i bear, deer, bobcat, coyote and cougar. The trail is broken up into manageable one-day sections, with the 7,000-foot Barker Pass to Tahoe City segment measuring just over 16 miles.
