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Bloody Rock Trail

Mendocino National Forest, California · 3 min read

Distance
5 mi
Elevation Gain
1,400 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
May through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
5 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
No Lot
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
None
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Bloody Rock: a dramatic volcanic outcrop with views across the Snow Mountain Wilderness
  • Mixed chaparral and conifer terrain typical of the inner Coast Range
  • Sacramento Valley visible from the upper trail sections
  • Remote character with essentially no other hikers
  • Historical site: Blood Rock area has documented Native American history

Overview

The Bloody Rock Trail climbs to a dramatic volcanic outcrop in the Snow Mountain Wilderness of Mendocino National Forest, delivering Coast Range summit views in a shorter and less demanding package than the Snow Mountain Summit Trail. The 5-mile out-and-back traverses chaparral and mixed conifer forest before reaching the rock formation, where views west across the forest and east toward the Sacramento Valley are extensive.

The trail is essentially unvisited; solitude is guaranteed.

The Route

Miles 0 to 2.0: Chaparral and lower forest. The trail begins in manzanita and ceanothus chaparral on south-facing slopes. The grade is steady. Blue oak and black oak appear as the trail gains elevation and transitions to shadier aspects. No water is available on this route; carry all water from the trailhead.

Miles 2.0 to 2.5: Upper forest and rock approach. The chaparral transitions to mixed conifer forest with white fir. The volcanic Bloody Rock formation becomes visible ahead on the ridgeline.

Mile 2.5: Bloody Rock. The formation is a cluster of dark volcanic basalt on the ridgeline. The views from the rocks are excellent: the Snow Mountain Wilderness extends to the north, the Sacramento Valley floor is visible to the east. Historical context: this is a site of documented significance to the Yuki people.

When to Hike

May through October after spring rains recede. Avoid in the heat of July and August afternoons.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry 2 liters of water; no water sources on trail. Layers for the exposed ridgeline.

Trailhead Access

Forest roads from State Route 20, requiring high-clearance vehicle. Check road conditions with Mendocino National Forest office.

Practical Details

No permit is required for day hiking on this trail. Dogs are welcome on leash. No restroom facilities are at the trailhead; plan accordingly. No water source is available at the trailhead; carry all water from home. No cell service is available in this area; download offline maps before leaving the main road.

The recommended season for this trail is May through October. Conditions outside this window may include challenging weather, trail closures, or reduced accessibility. Always verify current conditions with the Mendocino National Forest ranger district before visiting, particularly at the beginning and end of the recommended season when conditions are most variable.

Before any visit, review the Leave No Trace seven principles and our checking conditions guide for current fire restrictions, trail closures, and ranger district advisories. The America the Beautiful pass covers day use fees at developed recreation areas where applicable. Veterans and active military have additional access options covered in our veteran benefits guide.

Nearby

The Snow Mountain Summit Trail is the major summit option in the same wilderness. Follow Leave No Trace principles and review checking conditions for road conditions and fire closures.

Trailhead Parking

Bloody Rock Trailhead on Forest Road 18N62, accessible from Forest Road 18N. Gravel road, high-clearance required. Pull-off for 6-8 vehicles. No fee.

← Back to Mendocino National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the history behind the name Bloody Rock?
The name Bloody Rock refers to a historical confrontation that occurred in this area in the mid-19th century between settlers and the indigenous Yuki people of the inner Coast Range. The Yuki had inhabited the inland mountains and valleys of what is now Mendocino County for thousands of years. The California Indian massacres of the 1850s and 1860s affected the Yuki severely. The name acknowledges this history; the USFS recommends approaching the site with awareness of its significance to California Indian tribes.
Is the Bloody Rock Trail well-maintained?
The Bloody Rock Trail is maintained but receives minimal use compared to most national forest trails in California. The trail is clear but may have seasonal overgrowth, particularly in the chaparral sections in late summer. Download an offline map before the hike. The volcanic rock formation itself is the clear destination and goal.
How far is Bloody Rock from Willows?
The Bloody Rock Trailhead is approximately 50 miles from Willows via State Route 20 and forest roads. Allow 90 minutes from Willows to the trailhead, including the forest road approach. The remote access is part of what keeps this trail uncrowded.