Overview
The Caribou Lake Trail leads into the heart of the Caribou Wilderness in Lassen National Forest, reaching a clear alpine lake set in a shallow basalt bowl at 6,400 feet. The trail is one of the most accessible wilderness hikes in northeastern California, short enough for a relaxed half-day trip but scenic enough to reward multiple visits across the season.
The Caribou Wilderness covers roughly 20,500 acres of volcanic terrain east of Lassen Volcanic National Park. The landscape differs markedly from the granite Sierra: basalt underfoot, lodgepole and western white pine above, and a scattering of small lakes in lava basins that hold water well into late summer.
The Route
Trailhead to Wilderness Boundary (Mile 0 to 0.8)
The trail begins at the Caribou Lake Trailhead off Caribou Road and immediately enters a mixed conifer forest. The first mile is relatively flat, crossing a low ridge through lodgepole pine and red fir. The wilderness boundary is marked with a wooden sign at roughly 0.8 miles.
Through the Volcanic Terrain (Mile 0.8 to 2.0)
Past the boundary, the trail crosses open basalt slabs and pumice fields. The footing changes character here: loose cinders alternate with exposed bedrock. This section has modest elevation gain and offers the first open views across the Caribou Plateau toward the distant ridge lines.
Final Approach to the Lake (Mile 2.0 to 2.3)
The trail descends gently through a band of lodgepole pine before opening onto Caribou Lake. The lake is shallow but clear, ringed by basalt shoreline and intermittent sandy patches. A flat camping area sits on the eastern shore, popular with backpackers spending a night before pushing deeper into the wilderness.
The turnaround is the lake itself. Take time to walk the shoreline before heading back.
When to Hike
July through August offers peak conditions. Snow typically clears from the trail by early July, and wildflowers are strongest in the first half of July. Afternoons can bring thunderstorms, especially in mid-July through early August; start early.
September through October is excellent for solitude. The crowds thin substantially after Labor Day, temperatures drop to comfortable hiking range, and the lake reflects the surrounding tree colors. Ice can form on the lake by mid-October at night.
Before July, snow may remain on portions of the trail, particularly in shaded basalt bowl sections near the lake. Check current conditions at the Almanor Ranger District before making the trip.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 1.5 to 2 liters of water for this trail. Water is available at the lake and from small streams en route, but treat or filter all backcountry water before drinking. Individual water needs vary by temperature, pace, and fitness level.
Sun protection is important on the open basalt sections, which offer little shade. A lightweight wind layer is useful even in midsummer, as the plateau elevation can be breezy. Trekking poles help on the loose cinder sections of the approach.
If you plan to fish, bring a California freshwater fishing license. Brook trout are present in Caribou Lake and are best targeted in the morning before temperatures rise.
Trailhead Access
The Caribou Lake Trailhead is reached via Caribou Road off Highway 44 east of Old Station. The road is unpaved for the last few miles and is typically passable for standard passenger vehicles through the summer season. High-clearance vehicles are helpful if the road is wet or rutted early in the season.
No permit is required for day hiking or overnight camping in the Caribou Wilderness (as of 2026). Dispersed camping in the wilderness is free; established campsites near the lake are first-come-first-served.
Dogs are allowed on leash throughout the Caribou Wilderness.
Nearby
Other Lassen National Forest trails worth combining with a visit to this area include the Twin Lakes Trail for a longer wilderness day, and the Thousand Lakes Wilderness Loop for a multi-day backpacking option in a neighboring wilderness area.
Before any backcountry trip in Lassen National Forest, check current fire restrictions and road conditions at Checking Conditions Before You Go. Practice Leave No Trace 7 Principles on all wilderness trails, particularly around fragile lake margins and volcanic soil.