Plumas National Forest

The Plumas National Forest is uniquely located on the boundary between the rugged Sierra Nevada and the fringes of the Cascade Range. The Forest's diverse 1.2 million acres provides a magnificent backdrop for a quality hiking experience.

Hiking Information
The Plumas National Forest offers close to 300 miles of trails suited for every taste and ability. Whether you are looking for a leisurely stroll or a strenuous hike, what better way to enjoy the forest than first-hand. Hiking on our many trails offers you the opportunity to experience beautiful scenery and catch a glimpse of wildlife that you might otherwise miss.

Pacific Crest Trail (PCT)
The PCT spans 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada. About 75 miles extends across the Plumas National Forest, crossing two major canyons, (the Middle Fork and North Fork of the Feather River). Elevations range from 2400 to 7000 feet. Due to snow at the higher elevations it is usually mid-June before it is feasible to hike in this area. Whether you decide to only hike a short distance of the trail or tackle the entire 2,650 miles, you will experience some of the most breathtaking scenery in the United States.

Leave No Trace
Practicing a Leave No Trace ethic is very simple; make it hard for others to see or hear you and Leave No Trace of your visit. Pack It In! Pack It Out! Be a responsible outdoor recreationist and appreciate and respect public recreation areas.

Use Common Sense
Carry a first-aid kit with you, and have a working knowledge of the use of the components in the kit
Leave a detailed travel plan with a responsible person and always carry a map with you. The most widely used maps for hiking are the forest map and topographical maps.

• It is never wise to hike alone. Choose a hike within the capabilities of your group. If you think you are lost, stop traveling at once, stay calm, and decide upon a course of action.
  
• A series of three signals, such as whistles, shouts, or light flashes is universally recognize as a distress signal.

Campfire permits
Campfire permits are required for fires built outside of developed campgrounds from May 1 through the end of fire season (usually Oct. 31). Campfire permits can be obtained from the California Department of Forestry, Bureau of Land Management, and the U.S. Forest Service.

Watch Out For These Critters, Conditions & Situations
Ticks are common throughout wooded, brushy, and grassy areas. To protect yourself wear clothing with a snug fit around your waist, wrist, and ankles. Layers of clothing helps to keep ticks from reaching your body. Use a strong insect repellent.

Rattlesnakes are common below 6,000 feet in elevation. While hiking watch where you put your hands and feet, especially when stepping over logs or climbing in rocky areas. Carry a snake bite kit with you and know how to use it.

Poison Oak is a common plant in this area. It has a triple leaf pattern with prominent veins and a shiny surface. Learn how to recognize it and avoid contacting it.

Hypothermia is the abnormal lowering of the body's internal temperature. This condition is caused exposure to cold and aggravated by wet, wind, and exhaustion. Before hiking become familiar with the causes, symptoms, and treatment of hypothermia.

Weather in the mountains can be very unpredictable. Thunderstorms are common throughout the summer months. Don't be caught on mountain tops, under large solitary trees, or near open water during a lightning storm.

Water quality testing is not preformed on open water sources such as lakes, streams, and springs. For untreated water sources boil or treat before using.

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