The best walks and hikes in Smith River National Recreation Area

Embark on the Devil's Punchbowl Trail for a moderate hike that takes you through forested areas, potentially revealing impressive rock features. This route is known for its distinctive natural landmark, often a dramatic geological formation or a hidden water-filled basin, providing a memorable focal point for your journey. You will cover 4.7 miles (7.5 km) and gain 947 feet (289 metres) in elevation, typically completing the hike in about 2 hours and 20 minutes.

Before you head out, remember to check local conditions, as weather can affect trail accessibility. The trail is located within the Smith River National Recreation Area in Del Norte County, California. Parking is usually available at designated trailheads, but arriving early during peak seasons is a good idea to secure a spot. Always be prepared for your hike and consider the best time of day for your visit.

Trails named Devil's Punchbowl often feature unique rock strata or stunning natural pools, and this route is no exception. It winds through the Siskiyou Wilderness, offering a chance to experience the natural environment of this region. The journey culminates in a significant natural landmark, making it a notable option if you are looking for a hike with a clear destination and interesting geological context.

The Hiouchi Trail offers a serene journey through Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, winding along the banks of the pristine Smith River. You'll experience a mix of riparian forest and ancient redwood groves, with the path occasionally dipping down to the water's edge. Near Stout Grove, the redwoods grow impressively large, creating a

The Craigs Creek Trail offers a serene, easy hike through a lush temperate rainforest, perfect for a quick nature fix. This 0.5-mile (0.7 km) route, with only 34 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through a dense canopy of Douglas Fir and Tan Oak, with the soothing sound of the Smith River accompanying your steps. It's a delightful 11-minute stroll, ideal for those seeking a peaceful, accessible outdoor experience.

For those planning a visit, the trail is generally accessible year-round, though spring is particularly rewarding with its display of wildflowers like rhododendron and iris. While this specific segment is short, the broader Craigs Creek Trail is known for its historical significance and natural beauty. It's a great option for a beginner hike or a family-friendly outing.

Historically, the Craigs Creek Trail was used by gold and platinum miners in the late 1800s, with remnants like a derelict donkey engine still found further along the full route. The trail's destination, the confluence of Craigs Creek and the South Fork of the Smith River, provides a tranquil riverside oasis, making it a notable spot for wild swimming and cooling off away from more crowded areas.

The Wellman Loop Trail offers a unique hiking experience in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, distinct from the park's more famous flat groves. You'll start among impressive old-growth redwoods, but the trail quickly transitions into a steep climb with tight switchbacks, leading through a dense forest of huckleberry, tanoak, and Douglas-fir. While not always the most scenic for towering redwoods, it provides a good workout and a different perspective on the park's diverse ecosystems, with a small, attractive redwood grove appearing before the ridgetop.

Planning your visit to the Wellman Loop Trail requires a bit of attention to find the trailhead, which is marked by a small sign across Highway 199 from Jedediah Smith Campground. You'll likely need to park on a dirt road just south of the trailhead and walk up to the start. The 2.4-mile (3.9 km) loop, with its 389 feet (118 metres) of elevation gain, is officially rated easy but feels more challenging due to its consistent steepness, taking about 1 hour and 9 minutes. Consider visiting in May to catch the rhododendron blooms.

This trail is a solid choice if you're looking for a relatively short but vigorous hike, especially if you want to experience the varied Wellman Loop Trail terrain beyond just the giant redwoods. It provides a good contrast to other trails in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, showcasing the transition from lush old-growth to more upland forest. Just be prepared for some highway noise throughout your journey, which can detract slightly from the natural ambiance.

The Myrtle Creek Trail offers a delightful and easy hike through a diverse landscape, perfect for a relaxing outing. You'll wander beneath towering redwood trees, transition into sunnier knobcone pine forests, and follow the gentle meander of Myrtle Creek. The trail is particularly notable for its unique plant life, including the carnivorous California pitcher plant, making it a hidden gem for nature lovers.

This family-friendly and dog-friendly route covers 2.1 miles (3.3 km) with a modest 225 feet (68 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 56 minutes to complete. Parking is available at the trailhead, and dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on a leash. It's an accessible option for most, making it a great choice for a quick escape into nature.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Myrtle Creek Trail is steeped in history, following an old gold mining ditch from the turn of the twentieth century. Interpretive signs along the path share insights into the area's past, including the discovery of a 47-ounce gold nugget over a century ago. It's also designated as a Botanical Area, protecting its diverse flora and unique environmental features.

The Craigs Creek Trail offers a captivating journey through the Smith River National Recreation Area, blending natural beauty with historical intrigue. You will hike through dense forests of Douglas Fir and redwood trees, experiencing a continuous up-and-down terrain that eventually leads to the tranquil confluence of Craigs Creek and the South Fork of the Smith River. Along the way, enjoy vista points high above the river, providing spectacular views of its winding course, and keep an eye out for vibrant wildflowers in spring.

Planning your visit to this 3.8-mile (6.1 km) hike, which has 635 feet (194 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 49 minutes, is straightforward. The trail is generally rated as easy, but be mindful of poison oak along the edges and a potential landslide around the two-mile mark. Spring is ideal for seeing wildflowers, while August brings gentian blooms. Always check current trail conditions before heading out.

This route holds significant historical value as a former mining path, used by gold and platinum miners in the late 1800s. You can still find remnants like a derelict donkey engine at the trail's end, a nod to its past. The trail culminates at a secluded boulder beach, perfect for relaxation or even a swim, making it a unique destination within the Six Rivers National Forest.

Embark on the Doe Flat Trail to Devil's Punchbowl, a moderate hike spanning 8.9 miles (14.3 km) with an elevation gain of 1567 feet (478 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 4 hours and 22 minutes. The trail leads you through diverse terrain, starting on an old road grade before transitioning to a singletrack path, eventually revealing the stunning glacial cirque lake known as Devil's Punchbowl, nestled among towering granite cliffs.

When planning your visit, be aware that access to the trail can be limited by snow from November through June, so check conditions before you go. The final mile to Devil's Punchbowl is particularly steep, often called "the elevator," featuring continuous switchbacks and a scramble over granite. While the route is popular, especially on summer weekends, camping directly at the Punchbowl is discouraged to protect the delicate subalpine landscape.

This route takes you into the Siskiyou Wilderness, home to one of the world's richest temperate coniferous forests. Here, you can observe up to fifteen different conifer species, including Douglas-fir and Port Orford cedar, with vibrant vine maple adding color in the fall. The crystal-clear waters of Devil's Punchbowl, surrounded by 1500-foot granite cliffs, offer a refreshing reward after your strenuous climb.

Hike the South Kelsey National Recreation Trail, a moderate route that takes you through the diverse landscapes of Six Rivers National Forest. This 8.3-mile (13.4 km) journey involves an elevation gain of 1303 feet (397 metres) and typically takes around 3 hours and 59 minutes to complete. You will discover dense forests filled with old-growth Douglas fir and giant sword ferns, transitioning to red fir and Brewer spruce at higher elevations. The trail offers many spots to reach the clear waters of the South Fork Smith River, where you might find peaceful swimming holes. A climb to Bald Peak provides incredible panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged Siskiyou Mountains.

Before you set out, be aware that some river and creek crossings, such as Eightmile Creek, can be too high to cross safely during spring. These sections often do not become passable until July, so plan your visit accordingly. Recent burn areas might also make parts of the trail difficult to follow, and beyond Harrington Creek, you could encounter numerous downed trees in unmaintained sections. Always check current conditions before heading out to ensure a smooth and safe experience.

This trail is notable for its rich variety of ecosystems, showcasing the transition from lush riverine forests to higher mountain environments. As you hike, you might even catch a glimpse of distant Mount Shasta from Bald Peak, adding another layer to the already impressive vistas. The South Kelsey National Recreation Trail offers a rewarding experience for those looking to explore the natural beauty and varied terrain of this part of Northern California.

If you're seeking a rewarding climb through a lush forest, the French Hill Trail delivers a moderate 5.0-mile (8.1 km) hiking experience. You'll navigate a consistent uphill with numerous switchbacks, gaining 1584 feet (483 metres) in elevation. The path winds through a shaded, garden-like setting of Douglas firs and tanoaks, with a rich understory of ferns and rhododendrons, eventually offering scenic views of the Siskiyou Mountains near the summit.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is open year-round and welcomes dogs on a leash. The trailhead begins at 400 feet, so be ready for the steady ascent. While no specific parking details are provided, aiming for quieter times of the day can enhance your experience and solitude on the route.

Historically, this trail served as a pack route for constructing the Camp 6 Lookout, adding a unique layer to its natural beauty. It's a great option for birding enthusiasts and those looking for a solid workout in the Smith River National Recreation Area. Allow approximately 2 hours and 51 minutes to complete this journey.