An abandoned mine, wildflowers, and red rock landscapes highlight this section of the Pacific Crest Trail along the Siskiyou Mountains from Siskiyou Gap.

With so many “Siskiyou” landmarks here, you might think the name is of local origin. Actually, it means “bob-tailed horse” in the Cree language of Canada. The term stuck here after Alexander McLeod, a Scottish official of the Hudson’s Bay Company, lost a prize horse while crossing the range in a snowstorm in 1828.

To drive to Siskiyou Gap, start by taking Interstate 5 . . .

This chapter is an excerpt from 100 Hikes: Southern Oregon