01
Best overall pick
South Fork National Recreation Trail
Along The South Fork Trinity River West Of Hayfork • River Canyon Out-And-Back Hike • Scenic All-Rounder
A gently rolling river trail with big canyon views and plenty of spots to dip your feet in the South Fork Trinity River.
This is the trail locals suggest when you just want a classic Northern California river hike without anything too technical. The tread is straightforward, the grades are mostly mellow, and you’re almost always in earshot of the water. Go early on hot days and bring time to linger at one of the gravel bars along the way.
02
Panoramic summit hike
Hayfork Bally Lookout and High Point
High Ridge South Of Hayfork • Short Summit Hike With Sweeping Views • Best For Sunset Vistas
A relatively short climb to a fire lookout and summit ridge with wide-open views over Hayfork Valley and the Trinity Alps.
The road does most of the work here, leaving you with a manageable hike that pays off with a true mountaintop feel. On a clear day you can pick out ridgelines in every direction, and sunset light over the valley can be spectacular. Pack a wind layer and give yourself time at the top to wander between the lookout and the high point.
03
Offbeat forest adventure
Marble Caves Trail
Forest Glen Area Off Highway 36 • Forest Climb To Limestone Formations • Best For Geology Buffs
A steeper forest trail that climbs from Forest Glen toward rugged limestone outcrops and cave features tucked into the hillside.
This route feels a bit wilder than many nearby hikes, with a narrower path, steady elevation gain, and a real sense of exploring the upper slopes above the South Fork. The draw here is the unusual marble and cave formations, which give the area a different character than the usual granite and shale. Expect limited signage and a more backcountry feel than a typical family stroll.
04
Laid-back local favorite
Potato Creek Hiking Trail
Foothills North Of Hayfork Near Potato Creek • Shaded Creekside Woodland Walk • Best For A Quick Leg-Stretcher
A modest, mostly shaded trail that follows Potato Creek through mixed forest, ideal for an easy outing close to town.
When you want to get into the trees without committing half a day, this little trail does the trick. The grades are gentle enough for casual hikers, dogs, and kids who can handle uneven ground. Watch and listen for songbirds along the creek and keep an eye out for wildflowers in spring.
05
Iconic high-country trek
Canyon Creek Lakes Trail
Trinity Alps Near Junction City • Long Alpine Valley And Lakes Hike • Best Big-Day Or Overnight Adventure
A classic Trinity Alps route that follows Canyon Creek into a granite-walled valley, ending at striking alpine lakes and waterfalls.
This trail is farther from Hayfork than the others, but many local hikers consider it the go-to choice when they want a true mountain day. The climb is steady and the mileage adds up, yet the scenery—waterfalls, polished granite, and high cirque walls—delivers from mid-valley onward. Strong hikers can tackle it as a long day trip, while backpackers will find plenty of established sites up-canyon for an overnight.