Kanaka Peak

Dogs Unknown

Features River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers

It's an uphill trail the whole way but it has quite the payout at the top. You'll be able to see an awesome panoramic view that includes Lassen, a bit of Shasta peaking through, Whiskeytown Lake, the Trinity Alps, and Redding. There's a sweet little series of waterfalls halfway through that's a perfect break spot.

There are two creek crossings, one right at the beginning of the trailhead and one halfway through.

Please note that there's a gate about a mile before the trailhead. The National Park Service closes this gate from early winter to about mid-spring. We took this trail at the end of March and the gate was locked. You may have to tag on an extra mile of uphill climbing in the beginning; keep that possibility in mind.

If you start at the gate, you'll follow it up the dirt road until you see the trailhead sign on the left. The first thing you'll come up to is a creek crossing. There will be one more creek crossing halfway through.

The halfway point creek crossing is a perfect rest area. There's some shade and there's some exposed area too, so you can take your pick at what you'd like. You can explore a bit and get up close with the series of tiny miniature waterfalls.

Once you're done with your rest, just keep trucking along and keep your eyes out for all the exotic looking flora on the way up. There are some beautiful flowers and trees in the right seasons.

Once you're finally at the top, soak it all in, as the views from Kanaka Peak are stunning. This is a great place to snap a panoramic shot with your phone. The views combined with a sense of accomplishment are well worth the trek to the top. This has become one of my favorite routes in the area.