North Fork

Hobo Gulch to Backbone Creek and to Rattlesnake Creek: The easy ¾-mile hike to Backbone creek begins level, climbs up, and then drops down to the creek. Use caution during high water flows as there are no bridges. Use the high-water route during spring and early summer.  Another 4¼ miles of hiking brings you to Rattlesnake Creek. The trail runs through a mixed forest of giant Madrone and Douglas fir. Oaks and dogwood are also prevalent, making this a beautiful hike in the fall. Overnight hikers will find plenty of excellent campsites along the trail. (R11W - T36N - S6)

A long 19-mile hike from the trailhead at Hobo Gulch will get you to Grizzly Lake, an large alpine lake, which sits at the base of Thompson Peak, the tallest peak in the Trinity Alps. The trail is beautiful, wandering through magnificent mixed conifer forests with views of the surrounding peaks. Evidence of Gold Rush mining activity lies all along the trail. Grizzly Lake features a spectacular 70-foot waterfall at its outlet. It is a strenuous hike to get to the lake itself. Off-trail hikes are possible to Lois Lake (the highest lake in the Trinity Alps) and Thompson Peak.