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ForestMatters, LLC

Patterson Meadow Trail

Modoc National Forest, California · 3 min read

Distance
6 mi
Elevation Gain
900 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
June through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
5 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
No Lot
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
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

  • Patterson Meadow, a large alpine meadow at 7,200 feet in the Warner Mountains
  • Aspen forest on the approach, spectacular golden color in late September
  • Pronghorn and mule deer commonly seen in and around the meadow
  • Wildflower display in the meadow from late June through July
  • Access to the South Warner Wilderness at a lower elevation than the Summit Trail

Overview

Patterson Meadow is a large high-elevation meadow at 7,200 feet in the Warner Mountains section of Modoc National Forest, reached by a 6-mile out-and-back through some of the finest aspen forest in northeastern California. The meadow itself is broad and open, with spectacular views of the surrounding Warner Mountain peaks and consistently good wildlife viewing. This is the most approachable introduction to the South Warner Wilderness for hikers who want Warner Mountains character without the full Summit Trail commitment.

No permit required.

The Route

Miles 0 to 2.0: Aspen forest approach. The trail climbs from the Patterson Camp trailhead through a mixed forest of aspen and white fir. The aspen groves are particularly dense in the first two miles. In late September, the aspen turn brilliant gold and orange. In summer, the filtered light through the aspen canopy is characteristic and pleasant.

Miles 2.0 to 3.0: Meadow entry. The forest opens to the large Patterson Meadow at approximately mile 2.5. The meadow is broad, with grasses, wildflowers, and a small creek threading through the center. Pronghorn are regularly spotted here grazing in the open. Views of the Warner Mountain peaks above are excellent.

Mile 3.0: Turnaround. The trail continues into the wilderness beyond the meadow; the described turnaround is at the far edge of the main meadow where the character is best.

When to Hike

Late June through July for wildflowers. Late September for aspen color.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry 1.5 to 2 liters of water. Meadow water is available but requires treatment. Layers for the high elevation.

Trailhead Access

Same as the Summit Trail: Forest Road 64 from Likely.

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. Water sources are present along the trail but require treatment before drinking. No cell service is available in this area; download offline maps before leaving the main road.

The recommended season for this trail is June through October. Conditions outside this window may include challenging weather, trail closures, or reduced accessibility. Always verify current conditions with the Modoc 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 Summit Trail continues from this same trailhead to the full ridgeline wilderness. See the Modoc National Forest guide. Follow Leave No Trace principles in the meadow.

Trailhead Parking

Patterson Camp Trailhead on Forest Road 64, east of Likely. Gravel road, high-clearance required. Small lot. No fee.

← Back to Modoc National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Patterson Meadow good for wildlife viewing?
Yes. Patterson Meadow is one of the better wildlife viewing destinations in Modoc National Forest. Pronghorn are regularly seen grazing in the open meadow and on the surrounding hillsides, particularly in early morning and evening. Mule deer are common year-round. Bald eagle and prairie falcon are seen in the airspace above the meadow. The meadow's openness relative to the surrounding forest makes spotting wildlife much easier than on the ridgeline trails.
When do the aspens turn color at Patterson Meadow?
The aspen groves on the approach to Patterson Meadow typically turn gold and orange in the last week of September and first week of October. This is one of the best aspen-viewing locations in northeastern California, where aspen groves are less common than in the central and southern Sierra Nevada. The color can be vivid but the window is short, usually only 2 to 3 weeks before the leaves drop.
How does the Patterson Meadow Trail differ from the Summit Trail?
The Patterson Meadow Trail is a lower-elevation, less demanding route that accesses the Warner Mountains character without the full ridgeline exposure and strenuous climbing of the Summit Trail. Patterson Meadow at 7,200 feet is well above treeline in places but far below the 8,000-9,000 foot ridgeline of the Summit Trail. The Patterson Meadow hike is appropriate for hikers who want Warner Mountains scenery without committing to a strenuous summit effort.