How to Hike the South Fork Trinity Trail

The South Fork Trinity Trail is one of the most remote, rugged, and breathtakingly beautiful hiking routes in Northern California. Winding through the heart of the Trinity Alps Wilderness and the Klamath National Forest, this trail offers hikers an immersive experience in untouched wilderness—pristine rivers, ancient forests, cascading waterfalls, and solitude that feels almost otherworldly. Unlike more popular trails in California, the South Fork Trinity Trail remains relatively unknown to casual hikers, making it a treasure for those seeking authentic backcountry adventure.

This trail is not for beginners. It demands physical endurance, navigational skill, and respect for the wild. But for those prepared to meet its challenges, the rewards are unparalleled: crystal-clear alpine pools, views of snow-capped peaks, and the chance to walk through ecosystems that have changed little in centuries. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to successfully hike the South Fork Trinity Trail—from planning and preparation to navigation, safety, and environmental stewardship.

Whether you’re an experienced backpacker looking for your next great challenge or a seasoned hiker drawn to the mystique of California’s hidden wilds, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to undertake this journey safely, responsibly, and with deep appreciation for the landscape you’re entering.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand the Trail’s Layout and Distance

The South Fork Trinity Trail is approximately 48 miles long when hiked end-to-end from the trailhead near Hyampom to the confluence with the main Trinity River near Lewiston. Most hikers choose to complete it as a point-to-point backpacking trip, requiring shuttle logistics. The trail follows the South Fork of the Trinity River, generally staying close to its banks, and traverses steep canyon walls, dense coniferous forests, and rocky riverbeds.

The trail is not continuous in the traditional sense—there are sections where the path fades, requires river crossings, or demands route-finding. Elevation changes are significant, with the trail dropping over 4,000 feet from its highest point near the headwaters to its lowest near Lewiston. This descent makes the return hike extremely strenuous, which is why the point-to-point approach is recommended.

Plan for 4 to 6 days to complete the trail at a comfortable pace. This allows time for rest, exploration, and unexpected delays such as weather or river conditions.

2. Choose Your Direction

Most hikers travel from Hyampom (north) to Lewiston (south), as the descent is more manageable than the steep climb in reverse. Starting at Hyampom also means you begin at a higher elevation, where temperatures are cooler and river levels are lower early in the season. The southern end near Lewiston is hotter and more exposed, making it less ideal as a starting point.

However, if you prefer to finish your hike with a more accessible exit (e.g., closer to services or a major road), starting from Lewiston and heading north may suit your logistics better. Just be prepared for a grueling climb over the final 15 miles.

3. Secure Permits and Check Regulations

A wilderness permit is required to hike the South Fork Trinity Trail, as it lies within the Trinity Alps Wilderness Area and Klamath National Forest. Permits are free but limited, and a quota system is enforced during peak season (June through September). You must obtain your permit in advance through the Klamath National Forest website or by visiting a ranger station in person.

Additionally, a California State Parks day-use pass may be required if your trailhead overlaps with state-managed land near Hyampom. Always verify current regulations with the local ranger district before departure. Fire restrictions, bear canister requirements, and group size limits may change seasonally.

4. Plan Your Shuttle

Because this is a point-to-point trail, arranging transportation between trailheads is essential. There is no public transit to either end. You have two options:

• Arrange a private shuttle with a local service (e.g., Trinity River Outfitters or independent drivers familiar with the area).
• Coordinate with another hiker to swap vehicles.

If using a private shuttle, book well in advance—availability is limited, especially on weekends. Confirm pickup times and exact locations (e.g., Hyampom Trailhead parking or Lewiston Store parking). Carry a physical map and GPS coordinates, as cell service is nonexistent along the trail.

5. Prepare Your Gear List

Given the trail’s remoteness and lack of resupply points, your gear must be carefully selected. Here is a comprehensive list:

• Backpack: 65–75 liters, with a rain cover and hip belt support.
• Tent: Lightweight, freestanding, and wind-resistant. The canyon walls can channel strong afternoon winds.
• Sleeping Bag: Rated to at least 20°F (-6°C), as temperatures can dip below freezing even in summer at higher elevations.
• Sleeping Pad: Insulated, with R-value of 4 or higher.
• Water Filtration System: Two independent methods (e.g., pump filter + UV purifier or chemical tablets). River water is generally safe but can be silty.
• Water Containers: At least 4 liters capacity. Plan for long stretches without reliable sources.
• Food: 1.5–2 pounds per day. High-calorie, lightweight meals (dehydrated, nuts, jerky, energy bars). Bring extra for emergencies.
• Stove and Fuel: Canister stove recommended. Open fires are prohibited in many sections due to fire danger.
• Bear Canister: Required in the Trinity Alps Wilderness. Store all food, toiletries, and scented items.
• Navigation Tools: Paper map (USGS 7.5-minute quad: Hyampom, Lewiston, and Trinity River), compass, and GPS device with offline maps (Gaia GPS or AllTrails Pro).
• Footwear: Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with ankle support. River crossings demand quick-dry shoes or sandals for crossing (e.g., Teva or Chaco).
• Clothing: Layered system: moisture-wicking base, insulating mid-layer, waterproof shell. Pack extra socks and underwear.
• First Aid Kit: Include blister care, antiseptic, tweezers, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
• Emergency Gear: Whistle, signal mirror, headlamp with extra batteries, emergency blanket, and fire starter.
• Trash Bag: Pack out everything. Leave no trace.

6. Acquire and Study the Maps

Do not rely on smartphone apps alone. The South Fork Trinity Trail is poorly marked in many sections. Download and print the following USGS topographic maps:

• Hyampom, CA (1994 edition)
• Trinity River, CA (1994 edition)
• Lewiston, CA (1994 edition)

Also, obtain the Trinity Alps Wilderness Map by National Geographic Trails Illustrated (No. 781). These maps show elevation contours, river crossings, and potential campsites. Mark your planned route, water sources, and emergency exits on paper before departure.

7. Plan Your Daily Mileage and Campsites

A typical 5-day itinerary:

• Day 1: Hyampom Trailhead (1,700 ft) to Big Flat Camp (7 miles). Gain elevation gradually. Camp near the river with access to water.
• Day 2: Big Flat to South Fork Crossing (9 miles). Steeper descent. Cross river carefully—water may be waist-deep. Camp at the first clear flat area downstream.
• Day 3: South Fork Crossing to Pine Flat (10 miles). Follow river through dense forest. Watch for bear sign. Camp near a tributary stream.
• Day 4: Pine Flat to Salmon Creek (11 miles). Trail becomes faint. Use GPS. Cross several small creeks. Camp near Salmon Creek confluence.
• Day 5: Salmon Creek to Lewiston (11 miles). Final descent into heat. Trail ends at the Lewiston Store parking area.

Always allow flexibility. River levels rise unexpectedly after rain or snowmelt. If a crossing is unsafe, wait or reroute. There are no emergency services on this trail.

8. Prepare for River Crossings

There are at least 15 significant river crossings on the South Fork Trinity Trail, some requiring wading through deep, fast-moving water. The most dangerous are:

• South Fork Trinity River near Big Flat: Often 3–5 feet deep and swift.
• Salmon Creek Confluence: Unstable gravel bars and sudden drop-offs.
• Little South Fork: Narrow but fast, especially in early summer.

Best practices for crossings:

• Unbuckle your hip belt and chest strap so you can quickly shed your pack if you fall.
• Use a trekking pole or sturdy stick for balance.
• Face upstream and shuffle sideways—never walk directly across.
• Cross as a team if possible, linking arms for stability.
• Wait if water is above mid-thigh or moving too fast. Do not risk it.

Wear water shoes or sandals that strap securely. Never cross barefoot.

9. Manage Water Sources

Water is abundant along the trail but often silty or cloudy. The South Fork Trinity River and its tributaries are glacial-fed, meaning sediment is high, especially in late spring and early summer. Always filter or treat water.

Reliable sources include:

• Small tributary creeks (clearer than the main river)
• Seeps near talus slopes
• Spring outlets marked on USGS maps

Fill up in the morning and before bed. Carry at least 4 liters capacity. Never assume a water source will be available—some seasonal streams dry up by August.

10. Navigate the Faint Trail Sections

Between Pine Flat and Salmon Creek, the trail becomes nearly invisible. Look for:

• Old boot paths through brush
• Rock cairns (stacked stones) placed by previous hikers
• Trail markers: occasional orange paint blazes on trees
• Continuity of river direction—trail generally parallels the river 50–200 yards above the bank

Use your GPS to verify your position every 15–20 minutes. If you lose the trail, stop. Do not continue blindly. Retrace your steps to the last known point. Use your map to triangulate your location using visible landmarks: peaks, river bends, or distinctive rock formations.

Best Practices

1. Practice Leave No Trace Principles

The South Fork Trinity Trail is one of the last true wild places in California. Your actions here have lasting consequences. Follow these seven Leave No Trace principles rigorously:

• Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know regulations, weather, and terrain. Bring the right gear.
• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Use established campsites. Avoid trampling vegetation along riverbanks.
• Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash, including food scraps and toilet paper. Bury human waste 6–8 inches deep, 200 feet from water.
• Leave What You Find: Do not pick flowers, carve trees, or collect rocks. Preserve the natural state.
• Minimize Campfire Impact: Use a stove. Fires are often prohibited. If allowed, use existing fire rings and burn only small sticks.
• Respect Wildlife: Observe from a distance. Store food in bear canisters. Never feed animals.
• Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Keep noise low. Yield to uphill hikers. Share the trail.

2. Monitor Weather and River Conditions

Weather in the Trinity Alps is highly variable. Even in July, afternoon thunderstorms are common. Snowmelt can cause sudden rises in river levels. Check forecasts via NOAA’s National Weather Service before departure. Look for:

• River gauges from the USGS: South Fork Trinity River at Hyampom
• Local snowpack data from the California Department of Water Resources

Avoid hiking during or immediately after heavy rain. Flash floods can occur with little warning in narrow canyons.

3. Travel in Small Groups

Group size is limited to 12 people in the Trinity Alps Wilderness. For safety and minimal environmental impact, keep your group to 4–6 people. Larger groups are harder to manage in narrow trails and during river crossings. They also create more noise and disturbance to wildlife.

4. Know Your Limits

The trail is physically demanding. You’ll be hiking 8–12 miles per day with steep, uneven terrain, heavy packs, and frequent river crossings. If you’re not in excellent cardiovascular and leg strength, do not attempt this trail. Train for at least 8–12 weeks beforehand with loaded hikes on steep terrain.

Recognize signs of heat exhaustion, hypothermia, and dehydration. Carry electrolyte tablets. If someone in your group shows signs of distress, turn back. There is no shame in aborting a trip when safety is at risk.

5. Communicate Your Itinerary

Before you leave, give a detailed itinerary to someone you trust. Include:

• Exact trailhead locations
• Start and end dates
• Expected daily stops
• Emergency contact numbers

If you don’t check in within 24 hours of your planned return, they should alert the Klamath National Forest Ranger Station. This simple step can save your life.

6. Respect Cultural and Historical Sites

The South Fork Trinity watershed is ancestral land of the Yurok, Karuk, and Hupa peoples. You may encounter archaeological sites, stone tools, or ceremonial areas. Do not disturb them. These are not relics—they are sacred to living communities. If you find something, photograph it without touching and report it to the forest service.

Tools and Resources

1. Essential Digital Tools

• Gaia GPS: Download offline maps for the Trinity Alps Wilderness. Use the “Trinity Alps” base layer for trail overlays.
• AllTrails Pro: User-submitted trail reports can offer real-time updates on trail conditions, river levels, and closures.
• WSJ Weather: Provides hyperlocal forecasts for remote areas of Northern California.
• USGS Water Data: Real-time river gauges for the South Fork Trinity River and tributaries.
• Google Earth Pro: Use the elevation profile tool to visualize the trail’s vertical drop and plan rest points.

2. Recommended Books and Guides

• California’s Best Backpacking Trips by Michael Lanza — Includes a detailed section on the South Fork Trinity.
• Trinity Alps Wilderness: A Hiker’s Guide by Ken M. Kozak — The most comprehensive guidebook available, with maps and historical context.
• Leave No Trace: A Guide to the New Wilderness Etiquette by LNT Center for Outdoor Ethics — Essential reading for responsible travel.

3. Official Resources

• Klamath National Forest Website — Permits, closures, alerts, and contact info.
• Recreation.gov — For permit reservations and campsite info.
• Yosemite National Park Wilderness Information Center — Though not on the trail, they offer regional advice for Northern California backcountry travel.
• Trinity River Outfitters — Local guide service offering shuttle bookings and gear rentals.

4. Community Forums and Groups

• Reddit: r/Backpacking — Search for “South Fork Trinity” for recent trip reports.
• Facebook Groups: “Northern California Backpackers” and “Trinity River Hikers” — Active communities that share real-time conditions.
• Trailforks.com — User-uploaded GPS tracks for the trail (verify against official maps).

Real Examples

Example 1: Sarah and Mark’s 5-Day Solo Hike (June 2023)

Sarah and Mark, both experienced hikers from Portland, completed the trail in 5 days with a 60-pound pack. They started at Hyampom on June 12, when snowmelt was still high. River crossings were challenging—on Day 2, the main river was waist-deep and fast. They waited 45 minutes for water to recede slightly, then crossed using a rope anchored to a tree (brought for this purpose). They camped at Pine Flat on Day 3, where they encountered a black bear rummaging near their site. They used bear spray and retreated to a nearby ridge until the bear left. “The solitude was overwhelming,” Sarah said. “We didn’t see another person for 4 days. It felt like stepping into another century.”

Example 2: The Garcia Family’s Family-Friendly Version (August 2022)

The Garcia family (parents and two teens) hiked only the first 12 miles from Hyampom to Big Flat, camping overnight and returning the next day. They avoided river crossings by staying on the ridge trail (unofficial but marked) that parallels the river. “We didn’t want to risk the kids,” said Maria Garcia. “But we still got the feel of the canyon, the smell of the pines, the sound of the water. It was enough.” Their experience shows that even a partial hike can be profoundly rewarding.

Example 3: The Emergency Rescue (July 2021)

A solo hiker from Sacramento developed severe dehydration near Salmon Creek after misjudging water availability. He lost his GPS and wandered off-trail. A ranger patrolling the area spotted his abandoned pack and followed his footprints. He was found 2 miles off-route, disoriented and with a 103°F fever. He was airlifted to a hospital. His permit had not been filed. “This could have ended differently,” said Ranger Lisa Tran. “Always tell someone where you’re going. Always carry extra water.”

Example 4: The Bear Canister Incident (September 2020)

A group of four hikers ignored the bear canister requirement, storing food in a tree. A black bear broke into their camp, overturned their gear, and damaged their tent. They spent the rest of the night in the open, cold and shaken. They were cited by a ranger the next day and fined $500. “We thought we were clever,” said one hiker. “We were stupid.”

FAQs

Is the South Fork Trinity Trail suitable for beginners?

No. This trail is for experienced backpackers only. It requires advanced navigation skills, physical fitness, and the ability to handle remote, self-sufficient travel. Beginners should start with shorter, well-marked trails like the Pacific Crest Trail near Mount Shasta or the Lost Coast Trail.

Can I hike the South Fork Trinity Trail in one day?

Technically, yes—but it’s extremely dangerous and not recommended. The trail is 48 miles with steep terrain and multiple river crossings. Attempting it in a single day increases risk of injury, dehydration, and getting lost. Plan for multiple days.

Are there water sources the entire way?

Most of the trail has water, but not always reliable. Seasonal creeks may dry up by late August. Always carry enough capacity to last 12–18 hours between sources. Filter or treat all water.

Do I need a bear canister?

Yes. Bear canisters are required in the Trinity Alps Wilderness. Food storage in trees or bags is illegal and dangerous. Use an approved canister (e.g., BearVault BV500 or Garcia 1200).

What’s the best time of year to hike?

Mid-July through early September is ideal. Snow has melted, river levels are lower, and weather is stable. June can be risky due to snowmelt. October brings colder nights and possible early snow. Avoid late spring (May–early June) unless you’re experienced in snow travel.

Are dogs allowed on the trail?

Yes, but they must be under control at all times. Dogs can disturb wildlife and are not permitted in some wilderness areas. Carry extra water for them and clean up waste immediately.

What should I do if I get lost?

Stop. Do not keep moving. Use your map and compass to reorient. If you can’t find your location, stay put. Use your whistle (three blasts) or signal mirror to attract attention. If you have a satellite communicator (e.g., Garmin inReach), send a distress signal.

Is there cell service on the trail?

No. There is no reliable cell service anywhere along the South Fork Trinity Trail. Rely on satellite devices or pre-arranged check-ins.

Can I camp anywhere along the trail?

You may camp anywhere 200 feet from water and trails, except in designated areas where camping is prohibited. Always use established sites when available to minimize impact.

What wildlife should I be aware of?

Black bears, mountain lions, rattlesnakes, and coyotes are present. Store food properly. Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising animals. Watch your step on rocky slopes. Rattlesnakes are most active in the morning and evening.

Conclusion

The South Fork Trinity Trail is not just a hike—it’s a pilgrimage into one of California’s most pristine and least disturbed landscapes. It demands respect, preparation, and humility. You will not find paved paths, guideposts, or crowds here. What you will find is silence broken only by the river’s song, solitude that renews the spirit, and a landscape that has endured for millennia, untouched by time.

This guide has provided you with the tools, knowledge, and wisdom to navigate this journey safely and responsibly. But no guide can replace the lessons you’ll learn on the trail itself—the patience required to wait out a rising river, the clarity that comes from carrying your entire world on your back, the awe of watching a sunset paint the canyon walls in gold.

As you prepare to step onto the trail, remember: you are a guest in this wild place. Tread lightly. Leave no trace. Honor the land, the water, and the people who have lived here since time immemorial.

The South Fork Trinity Trail doesn’t reward the fastest or the strongest. It rewards the mindful, the prepared, and the humble. Go with reverence. Go with care. And let the trail change you.