01
Best overall trek
Summit Trail – South Warner Wilderness
High Warner Mountains Near Cedarville • High-Country Ridge Route • Best Overall Pick
A classic Warner Mountains hike that strings together big views, wildflowers, and true backcountry quiet along the main crest.
Starting from trailheads near Pepperdine or Soup Springs, the Summit Trail lets you sample as much or as little of the Warner crest as you have time for. Expect steady climbing through open forest into wide, grassy basins and long ridgeline sections with sweeping views east toward Nevada and west across the Modoc Plateau. It is a great choice for strong hikers who want a full day out without technical terrain.
02
Best alpine lake escape
Patterson Lake – South Warner Wilderness
South Warner Wilderness East Of Alturas • Alpine Lake Basin Hike • Best Alpine Day Hike
A rewarding climb to a high, bowl-shaped lake backed by the rocky spine of the Warner Mountains.
The Patterson Lake hike follows forested switchbacks and meadows up to a tucked-away basin with clear, cold water and a rugged skyline. In early summer, snowmelt feeds bright green slopes and a strong wildflower show; by late season, it feels like a quiet, high-country retreat. Pack layers, as weather can shift quickly at elevation, and plan to linger along the shore for lunch before heading back down.
03
Best mellow lake hike
Blue Lake – South Warner Wilderness
North End Of The Warner Mountains • Family-Friendly Forest-And-Lake Walk • Best For Casual Hikers
A gentler Warner Mountains outing to a pretty forest-ringed lake that still feels pleasantly remote.
Blue Lake is a good pick if you want Warner Mountain scenery without committing to a big climb or long mileage. The trail winds through mixed forest and open clearings before reaching the shoreline, where you can wander along the banks, fish, or just sit and listen to the breeze in the trees. The drive in is on mountain roads, so allow extra time and check conditions early in the season.
04
Best volcanic viewpoint
Schonchin Butte Trail – Lava Beds National Monument
Lava Beds National Monument Near Tulelake • Short Volcanic Summit Climb • Best Sunset Viewpoint
A short but steady hike up a cinder cone with a fire lookout and huge views over lava flows and distant peaks.
The Schonchin Butte Trail packs a lot of scenery into a relatively quick climb, making it a favorite add-on when exploring the caves and lava fields at Lava Beds. The path is rocky but straightforward, switchbacking up through open terrain to a historic fire lookout on the summit. Go in the late afternoon for cooler temperatures and vivid light across the Modoc Plateau and Medicine Lake Highlands.
05
Best close-to-town walk
Modoc National Wildlife Refuge Trails
Wetlands Just South Of Alturas • Relaxed Wetlands Nature Walk • Best Easy Stroll
Gentle dike-top paths and short loops that offer big-sky views, open water, and excellent bird-watching near town.
If you want an easy stretch of the legs without a long drive or serious elevation change, the trails at Modoc National Wildlife Refuge are hard to beat. Short walking routes follow levees and ponds, with benches and pullouts where you can watch waterfowl, raptors, and migrating birds depending on the season. It is a peaceful place for sunrise or sunset walks and a good option when mountain trails are still snowed in.