Caribou Wilderness is a federally designated wilderness area in Northern California, adjacent to Lassen Volcanic National Park. This volcanic plateau features rolling terrain, numerous glacial lakes, and diverse conifer forests, shaped by its volcanic and glacial origins. The landscape is characterized by crater peaks, cinder cones, and a rich network of lakes and ponds. Its varied environment provides opportunities for several outdoor sports, including hiking.
The Caribou Wilderness offers numerous routes for outdoor enthusiasts…
12
Routes
5
(33)
Average rating
359
People visited

3.49km
01:00
130m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

24.1km
07:17
730m
740m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

968m
00:16
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.9
(12)
136
hikers
6.31km
02:00
230m
230m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Caribou Wilderness is a federally designated wilderness area in Northern California, located adjacent to Lassen Volcanic National Park. It is characterized by a volcanic plateau, numerous glacial lakes, and diverse conifer forests.
The Caribou Wilderness primarily offers opportunities for hiking. Its relatively gentle, rolling terrain makes it accessible for various levels of hikers, from day trips to longer backpacking excursions.
Yes, a komoot guide titled "Hiking in Caribou Wilderness" provides detailed information on available trails and routes in the area.
The wilderness features volcanic landscapes, including crater peaks and cinder cones, and numerous glacial lakes. Notable points include Caribou Peaks, Black Cinder Rock, and Red Cinder, which is the highest point at 8,370 feet (2,551 meters).
The Caribou Wilderness features relatively gentle, rolling terrain. It is a volcanic plateau with moderate slopes, making travel by foot or horseback straightforward across its well-maintained trail system.
Permits are generally required for overnight backpacking in the Caribou Wilderness. Visitors should check with the U.S. Forest Service for the most current regulations regarding permits for day use and overnight stays.
The relatively gentle and rolling terrain of the Caribou Wilderness makes it accessible for various levels of hikers, including those seeking family-friendly options. Many trails offer moderate slopes suitable for different ages.
The wilderness is home to diverse wildlife, including black-tailed deer, black bears, squirrels, and chipmunks. Birdwatchers may spot bald eagles, ospreys, common mergansers, and various ducks.
Caribou Wilderness has received an average rating of 4.98 out of 5 stars from more than 300 visitors on komoot. This indicates a high level of satisfaction among users who have explored the area.
Official information about the Caribou Wilderness can be found on the U.S. Forest Service website for Lassen National Forest. The specific page for Caribou Wilderness is fs.usda.gov/recarea/lassen/recarea/?recid=11306.
The Caribou Wilderness is managed by the Almanor Ranger District of the U.S. Forest Service. They can be reached by phone at +1-530-258-2141 during business hours.
While much of the terrain is gentle, the Caribou Wilderness offers opportunities for longer backpacking excursions that can be challenging. The highest point, Red Cinder, reaches 8,370 feet (2,551 meters).
As a federally designated wilderness area, specific regulations regarding dogs may apply. Visitors should consult the U.S. Forest Service or local signage for current rules on pets in the Caribou Wilderness.

