Overview
The Kelsey Trail is one of the oldest documented routes in Klamath National Forest, following a path that predates European settlement and was used for trade and travel across the Marble Mountain divide for thousands of years. The Forest Service maintains portions of the trail's historic alignment, and hiking it today provides both a challenging backcountry experience and a tangible connection to the long human history of the Klamath Mountains.
The 9-mile out-and-back from the Kelsey Creek Trailhead climbs through a spectacular old-growth forest corridor along Kelsey Creek before gaining elevation into the more open terrain approaching the Marble Mountain Wilderness. The lower canyon contains Port Orford cedar, a species endemic to a small coastal and near-coastal area of northern California and southern Oregon, mixed with the old-growth Douglas fir typical of the Klamath Mountains. These trees are large, old, and uncommon in most national forests.
The Kelsey approach to the Marble Mountain Wilderness sees fewer visitors than the Lovers Camp approach from the south, which means the trail is quieter and the camping areas less impacted. The trade-off is that the Kelsey Trail is less developed: signage in the upper sections is sparse and the trail can be indistinct in places. Navigate with a downloaded topo map. For backcountry planning, review our Leave No Trace guide and national forest camping guide.
The Route
Miles 0 to 2.5 (Lower Kelsey Creek): The trail follows Kelsey Creek upstream through the old-growth corridor. The first 2 miles are among the most impressive forest walking in the Klamath Mountains. The creek is visible or audible throughout. Several log crossings span the creek in this section.
Miles 2.5 to 5.0 (Upper Canyon): The grade steepens as the trail leaves the creek and climbs toward the Marble Mountain Wilderness boundary. The forest transitions from old-growth Douglas fir and cedar to red fir and mountain hemlock. The wilderness boundary is marked by a wooden sign at approximately 4.5 miles.
Miles 5.0 to 4.5 (Turnaround): The 9-mile total route turns around at a ridge saddle with views into the upper Marble Mountain Wilderness. Most hikers stop here; continuing further requires committing to an overnight trip.
The Return: The return descends the same route, with the old-growth lower canyon being a pleasant ending to the descent.
When to Visit
The lower Kelsey Creek sections are accessible from late May. The upper trail near the wilderness boundary typically holds snow until June or early July. Peak season is July through September. Fall is excellent and very uncrowded.
Check current conditions for the Klamath National Forest via our pre-trip resources.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 2 to 2.5 liters, refilling at Kelsey Creek (treated). Individual needs vary.
Consider bringing:
- Topographic map for upper sections
- Water filter for creek water
- Trekking poles for the steep upper canyon
- Layers for the cooler old-growth lower sections
Practical Details
No permit required (as of 2026). Free campfire permit required. Dogs allowed on leash. No restrooms at the trailhead. Cell service absent; download maps in Fort Jones.
Veterans visiting Klamath National Forest should review our veteran benefits guide.
Getting There
From Fort Jones on State Route 3, drive west on Scott River Road approximately 10 miles to the Kelsey Creek Trailhead sign on the right. Fort Jones is 35 miles west of Yreka via State Route 3. The road to the trailhead is paved through most of the approach. Download maps and check conditions before departing Fort Jones.