Wilderness · California
Trinity Alps Wilderness
Granite spires and lakes in far Northern California
TypeWilderness
StateCalifornia
Best seasonSummer & early fall
Don’t missCanyon Creek Lakes
A vast, underrated wilderness of white granite, alpine lakes, and old-growth in remote Northern California — second only to the John Muir in size for the state. Big country with a fraction of the crowds.
What to see
- Canyon Creek Lakes & Falls
- Thompson Peak
- Grizzly Lake
- Caribou Lakes
- Old-growth forest
On public wild lands, services are sparse and conditions change fast — check the managing agency (Forest Service / BLM / Park Service) for road and seasonal closures, fire restrictions, and any permits before you go, and pack out what you pack in.
Build a trip around wild places like this.
Roamward turns spots like this into a real road trip on your phone — the scenic drive, the stops, and the detours, planned around the vibe you’re after. Get early access: