01
Big-view classic
Schonchin Butte Trail
Lava Beds South District • Short But Steep Volcanic Summit Trail • Best Panoramic Climb
A steep, switchbacking path up a cinder cone to a fire lookout with sweeping views of the lava fields and Mount Shasta on clear days.
From the trailhead off the park road, the route wastes no time climbing, gaining most of its elevation in under a mile. The surface is loose in spots and fully exposed, but benches of lava and the open views make the effort feel rewarding the whole way. Aim for sunrise or late evening for cooler temperatures and dramatic light over the Modoc Plateau.
02
History-rich ramble
Captain Jack's Stronghold
Lava Beds North District • Historic Lava Fortress Loop • Most Immersive History Hike
Twisting paths weave through jumbled lava trenches where Modoc warriors once hid, mixing easy walking with powerful history.
Two signed loop options let you tailor the distance while you wander among deep lava trenches and rough rock outcrops that once formed a natural fortress. Interpretive signs along the way help you picture the Modoc War and understand how the landscape shaped the conflict. The footing is mostly level but uneven, so sturdy shoes and an unhurried pace make the experience much more enjoyable.
03
Rock-art standout
Petroglyph Point Trail
Petroglyph Point Area • Rock-Art And Rim Hike • Best Quick Leg-Stretcher
Short paths beneath towering cliffs etched with ancient Modoc petroglyphs lead to a brief but steep climb for a rimtop view over Tule Lake.
A flat stroll at the base of the cliffs brings you to viewing areas where thousands of petroglyphs are protected behind fences but still easy to see. A rougher side trail climbs to the top of the formation, where you can look out across fields, wetlands, and the basin that once held a much larger Tule Lake. It is a compact stop just outside town, ideal when you want a meaningful walk without committing half a day.
04
Cave-loop favorite
Skull Cave and Symbol Bridge Trail
Lava Beds Cave Loop • Lava-Tube And Rim Trail Combo • Best Hot-Day Adventure
An easy circuit on the Cave Loop pairs short lava-tube explorations with a gentle rim trail to rock arches and painted lava walls.
From the Cave Loop Road, you can drop into the enormous entrance of Skull Cave, feel the temperature plunge, and then climb back out to wander the surface trail toward Symbol Bridge and Big Painted Cave. The path is mostly flat but rocky, so a headlamp, closed-toe shoes, and a light jacket for the caves are smart choices. Families and casual hikers like this area because you can mix and match short cave visits and scenic viewpoints to fit the time and energy you have.
05
High-country escape
Little Mount Hoffman Lookout Trail
Medicine Lake Highlands • Forest And Cinder-Cone Climb • Best High-Country Escape
A moderate climb through lodgepole forest and cinder slopes leads to a former fire lookout site with sweeping views over Medicine Lake and distant peaks.
Reached by a network of forest roads east of Tulelake, this trail offers a cooler, more wooded contrast to the stark lava fields closer to town. The route winds steadily uphill on pumicey tread before breaking out into open slopes near the old lookout, where the panorama takes in Medicine Lake, broad forests, and far-off volcanoes. Combine the hike with a swim or picnic at the lake to make the drive into a full-day outing.