Backpacking

Backpacking on the Modoc offers opportunities for the hiker to enjoy getaways to places that very few people ever see. With hundreds of miles of trails including several loop trips in the South Warner Wilderness, hikers can explore areas where they will encounter few, if any, other visitors. Not all trails are well marked. Take a good map and compass on all hikes and backpack trips.

You Can Help The Trails 
While traveling in the South Warner Wilderness, please stay on the trails. Cutting across switchbacks and t...

Backpacking on the Modoc offers opportunities for the hiker to enjoy getaways to places that very few people ever see. With hundreds of miles of trails including several loop trips in the South Warner Wilderness, hikers can explore areas where they will encounter few, if any, other visitors. Not all trails are well marked. Take a good map and compass on all hikes and backpack trips.

You Can Help The Trails 
While traveling in the South Warner Wilderness, please stay on the trails. Cutting across switchbacks and trampling meadows can cause erosion and damage the vegetation. If snow is encountered, travel across the snow and rocks as much as possible. High mountain plants and soils are fragile and especially susceptible to damage during thaws. If traveling a route without trails, groups should spread out rather than walking single file.

If travelers with horses are encountered, you must move off the trail at least 8 feet on the downhill side and let them pass. Horses are easily frightened by backpack equipment. Speaking to the riders in a quiet voice will allow horses to recognize you as a human and you will seem less scary.

Trails are a key part of many outdoor recreation experiences, but are often taken for granted. You can help keep trails open and safe by reporting trail conditions. You can also pick up any litter along your way in order to make it beautiful for the next traveler. Another way to help is to become involved with the Adopt-a-Trail program, in which interested clubs or organizations take on volunteer maintenance responsibility for a portion of a trail. Contact a local Forest Service office to become involved.