Tucked into California’s far northeastern corner is one of the most remote and scenically diverse mountain getaways in the state: Modoc National Forest. This 1.65 million-acre national forest not only offers adventure seekers opportunities to explore dense pine forests and wildflower-carpeted meadows, but also an array of volcanic peaks, rugged mountains, alpine lakes, high-desert plateaus, and more than 800 lava tube caves.
Because Modoc National Forest is nestled between the dramatic volcanic-rock mountains of the Cascades and the vast dry lakebeds of the Nevada border, and over a 3-hour drive from the Reno-Tahoe International Airport, it may require some effort to reach. But it’s one of those destinations where you could easily stay a week or a month without running out of things to do. Camp next to the high-altitude waters of Medicine Lake, roam with the wild horses through glens of pink pansies, hike to a 50-foot waterfall, and traipse through the vast fields of ancient lava rocks at Glass Mountain.
Discover why this national forest, which is full of opportunities to camp, hike, and explore lava tubes, bills itself as a stunning and adventurous vacation destination, “Where the West Still Lives.”
Things to do in Modoc National Forest
Modoc National Forest is brimming with epic adventures and a wonderland of storybook scenery. Ride horseback through forests of juniper, pine, aspen, and willow trees, zoom past creeks and through grassy glens on a mountain bike, or marvel at the fields of black volcanic glass obsidian. You can also fish, boat, or swim at one of several lakes and reservoirs or at Pit River, one of California’s five longest rivers. One of the best ways to see some of the park’s most scenic views is on foot, along one of nearly 20 hiking trails…