Overview
The Yellow Jacket Trail follows a section of the lower Klamath River canyon in Klamath National Forest, tracing a route that was used by gold prospectors and indigenous communities long before the Forest Service existed. The 4-mile out-and-back stays at relatively low elevation compared to the high-country routes in the Marble Mountain and Russian wilderness areas, making it accessible from early spring through late fall and providing a different perspective on the forest's character.
The lower Klamath River canyon is hot and dry in summer, a landscape of oak woodland, gray pine, and chaparral that would not look out of place in the Coast Range foothills of central California. The river itself is wide and powerful through this section, flowing through a canyon that narrows and widens as the bedrock changes. Gold was found in the Klamath River and its tributaries throughout the 1850s and 1860s, and the Yellow Jacket area was among the more productive placer locations. Evidence of that history is visible in the disturbed hillsides and flattened benches along the route.
For visitors staying at the Yellow Jacket Campground, this trail provides an easy morning walk before the day heats up, with river access for fishing or wading. For visitors passing through on State Route 96, the short round trip is a worthwhile stretch break in a genuinely scenic section of the Klamath River canyon. For context on the national forest's role in managing this river corridor, see our national forest vs. national park guide.
The Route
Miles 0 to 1.0 (Lower River): From the trailhead pullout near the campground, the trail climbs briefly above the river on a rocky path before descending to the river level. The Klamath River is visible throughout this section. Several use paths lead down to the river bank.
Miles 1.0 to 2.0 (Mining Area): The trail climbs above the river and passes through the remains of the historic mining activity. Disturbed hillsides and occasional equipment remnants are visible. The vegetation in this section is open chaparral and gray pine. The river is audible below.
The Turnaround: The natural turnaround at 2 miles is at a rocky ridge where the trail becomes indistinct. Return by the same route.
The Return: The return offers different perspectives down the canyon toward the river.
When to Visit
April through November is the comfortable season. Summer is hot in the Klamath River canyon, with temperatures sometimes exceeding 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Early morning hiking is recommended in summer. Spring and fall are ideal. The trail is accessible in mild winters.
Check current conditions and any fire restrictions via our pre-trip guide.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 1.5 liters for this short hike. River water is available for those with a filter. Individual needs vary significantly with summer heat.
Consider bringing:
- More water than expected in summer: canyon temperatures can be extreme
- Sunscreen for the exposed chaparral sections
- Fishing license and tackle if planning river access
Practical Details
No permit required. Free campfire permit for any open fire. Dogs allowed on leash. A vault toilet is at the Yellow Jacket Campground nearby.
Veterans visiting Klamath National Forest should review our veteran benefits guide.
Getting There
From Somes Bar on State Route 96, drive east approximately 15 miles to the Yellow Jacket Campground area. The trailhead pullout is just east of the campground entrance on the south side of State Route 96. State Route 96 follows the Klamath River from Interstate 5 at Yreka. Cell service is absent along most of State Route 96 in this area; download offline maps before leaving Somes Bar.