Ides Cove Loop Trail – Mendocino National Forest – Yolla Bolly – Middle Eel Wilderness

Ides Cove Loop Trail – Mendocino National Forest – Yolla Bolly – Middle Eel Wilderness

Ides Cove Loop Trail – Mendocino National Forest – Yolla Bolly – Middle Eel Wilderness

Location: Mad River, CA
Difficulty: Moderate
Features: Hiking trails, bird watching, wildlife observation, incredible scenery

The Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel Wilderness is a federally designated wilderness area found in the Yolla Bolly Range of Klamath Mountains. The wilderness area is located northeast of Covela and is within the sections of eastern Mendocino County, western Tehama County, and Trinity County. The wilderness area was made possible through the Wilderness Act of 1964, and was further enlarged by the California Wilderness Act of 1984, and eventually gained the Northern California Coastal Wild Heritage Wilderness Act of 2006. To date, the total area is 180,877 acres.

The area connect the following forest boundaries: the Mendocino National Forest, the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, and the Six Rivers National Forest – this makes the Ides Cove Loop National Recreation Trail the most popular access point. It is a wilderness haven for hike and bike enthusiasts as it features a variety of terrains, and features a diverse collection of flora and fauna.

Top 3 Adventure Hacks

1)  Wear appropriate footwear

The trail features diverse terrain. So whether it may be a short hike or a long trek, it is best that you wear appropriate footwear. Trail shoes are best for short hikes while hiking boots are best for technical terrain.

2) Stay safe

Of course, a flashlight, headlamp, and whistle are important must-haves when going for a long hike or overnight camping.

3) Bring a first aid kit 

There are pre-packaged first aid kits especially intended for hikers. Moreover, you can also enroll in a first-aid class or a wilderness first-aid class.