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Canyon Creek Trail

Trinity National Forest, California · 3 min read

Distance
14 mi
Elevation Gain
2,800 ft
Difficulty
moderate-hard
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
June through October
Est. Time
7-8 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
9 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
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

  • Lower and Upper Canyon Creek Lakes in glacial granite basins
  • Canyon Creek's spectacular cascades and swimming holes
  • Rugged granite walls rising 2,000 feet above the lake basins
  • Old-growth forest of Douglas fir and incense cedar
  • One of the best swimming destinations in the Trinity Alps
lakeriverviewsrock formationsswimmingwildflowers

Overview

The Canyon Creek Trail in Trinity National Forest ranks among the finest hikes in northern California, following a spectacular creek canyon through old-growth forest to twin alpine lakes set in a granite cirque with walls rising 2,000 feet overhead. The route is one of the most popular in the Trinity Alps Wilderness and for good reason: the scenery is exceptional throughout, from the swimming holes of the lower creek to the polished granite and blue water of the upper basins.

Canyon Creek itself earns attention on its own merits. The creek drops through a series of cascades and pools in the lower canyon that invite extended swimming stops on summer days. The forest overhead is dominated by large Douglas fir and incense cedar, creating a shaded, cathedral atmosphere for the first miles of hiking.

The Route

The trail begins at the well-maintained Canyon Creek Trailhead and follows the creek upstream through the lower canyon. The forest section covers the first 4 miles with modest elevation gain. The trail then steepens as the canyon walls close in, passing several significant waterfall drops before reaching lower Canyon Creek Lake at mile 6.5. Upper Canyon Creek Lake is 0.5 miles farther on a rougher route involving boulder scrambling.

What to Expect

Canyon Creek is busy on summer weekends. Arrive early for parking. The swimming holes in the lower canyon are particularly popular with families and are excellent places to rest on the return trip. Bear canisters are required for overnight trips in the wilderness per current USFS regulations. Confirm current fire restrictions before visiting during summer fire season.

Nearby

Junction City is a small community at the trailhead road junction with Highway 299. Weaverville, 20 miles east, has full services. The Stuart Fork Trail provides access to Emerald and Sapphire Lakes from the north side of the Alps.

Leave No Trace

This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.

Safety Considerations

The moderate-hard rating reflects the trail's general character under typical conditions. Weather, seasonal snow, and trail conditions can change the experience significantly. Carry the 10 Essentials on any full-day outing. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time before heading out, particularly on longer or more remote trails. Cell service varies throughout Trinity National Forest and may be unreliable in canyon bottoms or remote terrain.

Trailhead Parking

Canyon Creek Trailhead at the end of Canyon Creek Road northwest of Junction City. Paved lot with room for 25 vehicles. No fee. Self-issue wilderness permit at register.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Canyon Creek Lakes good for swimming?
Yes. The swimming holes in lower Canyon Creek and the lake inlet are popular summer destinations. The water is cold from snowmelt through July. Lower Canyon Creek's deep pools warm slightly more than the higher lakes.
How difficult is the Canyon Creek Trail?
The 14.0-mile out-and-back is rated moderate-hard. The lower canyon section is relatively gentle but the trail steepens considerably in the final 2 miles approaching the upper lake. Total elevation gain is 2,800 feet spread over 7 miles.
Is a permit required for Canyon Creek?
Day hikers do not need a permit. Overnight campers self-issue a free wilderness permit at the trailhead. No quota currently applies to Canyon Creek (as of 2026). Verify current regulations with the Weaverville Ranger District.
What is the trail like between the lower and upper lakes?
Lower Canyon Creek Lake sits at the canyon floor, while Upper Canyon Creek Lake is about 0.5 miles farther up a rocky scramble. The connecting route requires some hands-on scrambling over boulders but is manageable for experienced hikers.