Trip · 3-day backpacking trip
For · Friends and first-time backpackers
Vibe · Moderate and fun
Distance · 9.7 miles and 2,052 feet of elevation gain
Permits · Pick up a free wilderness permit at Weaverville Ranger Station (360 Main Street), and apply for a CA campfire permit online
Drive · 5 hours from SF
Ideal dates · September-October (to duck the heat and beat the snow)
Pets · Welcome on trails and campgrounds!
Shasta-Trinity National Forest (STNF) is the largest national forest in California! It features 2.2 million acres and over 6,200+ miles of streams and rivers. There are five wilderness areas: Castle Crags, Chanchellulla, Mount Shasta, Trinity Alps, and Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel, and more than 150 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail runs through the forest. This place is a natural wonderland that starts at 1,000 feet of elevation at Shasta Lake and tops out at Mt. Shasta at 14,179 feet. Ready to go galavanting? We are.
Official National Forest Website
Main image credit: Matt Whitman
In 1905, President Teddy Roosevelt designated over 1.2 million acres as the Trinity Forest Reserve, and a few months later created a separate Shasta Forest Reserve. These two areas officially became Shasta–Trinity National Forest in 1954.
Seven Up Peak is 8,100 feet tall and made of crumbling volcanic rock. It's surrounded by iconic Trinity Alps, such as Siligo, Gibson, and TriForest Peaks. From the top, you'll have views of Bear Basin, Granite Creek, and the Four Lakes Loop area.
California has the second largest number of wilderness areas in the country (Alaska has the most)
A lightweight, easy to clean customizable leash that comes in a rainbow of colors.
Pets
Pets
A neat way to pack, carry, and organize dirty shoes.
Personal Stuff
Clothes
A cute and colorful patch that repels mosquitoes with a natural repellent.
Self-Care
Self-care
It's pricey, but Supergoop! makes putting on sunscreen feel smooth and easy.
Self-Care
A nesting set of collapsible cookware that saves space in your camp kitchen.
Kitchen
Kitchen
It's pricey, but this picnic/camp/play blanket is easy to clean and lasts.
Shared Gear
Keep water cold and your family hydrated with this sleek, non-leak water jug.
Kitchen
Kitchen
Lighten the load from car to camp with this highly-rated collapsible wagon.
Essential Items
Enjoy the small town charm and enchanting wilderness in Idyllwild for this beginner camping trip.