Underrated National Forest Hikes in Northern California That Rival the Famous Yosemite Mist Trail

As the third largest state in the United States, California has no shortage of land to find amazing hikes. Northern California, in particular, is well-known for its trails due to the large amount of different terrains it encompasses. There are more mountains, more lakes, more waterfalls, more national parks, and therefore, more hikes to choose from. One of the most famous national parks (ranking highly not just in California, but all of the United States) is Yosemite. This area has many popular hikes, but none are quite so beloved as the Mist Trail. On this trail, you can visit multiple waterfalls, and it is an important part of reaching the famous Half Dome. However, national parks aren’t the only places where one can find an amazing hike; they just happen to be more well-known. If you’re looking for something a bit less crowded, but no less impressive, try a hike in one of Northern California’s national forests.

1. Bassi Falls

• Distance: 4.1 miles
• Location: Eldorado National Forest

A hike with a significant (metaphorical) bang for its buck, this trail leads to a truly stunning waterfall and only takes around an hour and forty-five minutes to complete—all on an easy route! As a result, this hike is great for families, and there are multiple swimming holes available to use. However, hikers do share that visiting in the summer means the waterfall and river will be very low. 

2. Shirley Canyon Trail

• Distance: 4 miles
• Location: Tahoe National Forest

Hikes in the Lake Tahoe area are bound to be more popular than other national forests due to the area’s general appeal for outdoor lovers, but this beautiful hike can also be quite difficult, and therefore locals know more about it than tourists. A trail up a mountain, through a forest, and past lakes, this hike can take a minimum of three hours to complete. However, hikers do mention there is a tram during the summer months, and that the gorgeous views are worth the length. 

3. McCloud Waterfalls Trail

• Distance: 3.9 miles
• Location: Trinity National Forest

In only 90 minutes, hikers can see not one, not two, but three waterfalls on this out-and-back path. Swimming is a popular pastime at each waterfall, but for those who wish to abstain, there are enough beautiful views to tide you over. Hikers note a few areas that can be challenging, but overall report an easy to moderate hike, depending on whether it’s been raining. 

4. Mount Judah Loop Trail

• Distance: 5.2 miles
• Location: Tahoe National Forest

This loop hike circles Mount Judah, uses part of the Pacific Coast Trail, and has views of the famous Donner Lake. Hikers claim that despite the distance covered and elevation climbed, the hike is relatively moderate, takes just under three hours to complete, and only truly gets crowded during the early summer when the wildflowers are in full bloom. 

5. Ney Springs and Faery Falls

• Distance: 1.4 miles
• Location: Trinity National Forest

The shortest hike on this list (taking around forty minutes), this mystical-sounding out-and-back trail provides access to (you guessed it) a waterfall with a swimming hole. Hikers say that the short length makes it easy enough for children, but that there are some more technical, narrow areas that require one to keep an eye on them. 

6. Thomes Gorge Trail

• Distance: 10.4 miles
• Location: Mendocino National Forest

This hike has underrated views but also requires quite a bit of planning due to the extreme heat that can occur in the summer. Winter is known as the best time to visit, when streams are at full capacity and there are many chances for wildlife sightings (almost a guarantee for this hike due to its remote nature). Hikers say that the views are worth the five-hour, out-and-back trek, but they recommend bringing bug spray and long pants. 

Are there any hikes you would have added to the list? Visit our nomination form and tell us all about them!