In the spectacular heart of the Trinity Alps Wilderness, this huge blue lake sparkles in a vast granite bowl. Two difficult trails reach the Caribou Lake basin—an old steep path and a new, longer trail with a gentler grade. Both are better suited for a backpack than a day trip. Note that group size is limited to ten, and that overnight stays require a permit, available free at ranger stations in Fort Jones, Weaverville, or at the entrance to the Coffee Creek Road.

To drive here from Oregon,  . . .

Other Hiking Options

Although the trail beyond Caribou Lake is faint,  . . .

This chapter is an excerpt from 100 Hikes: Southern Oregon