Island Lake Trail – Smith River Recreation Area

Island Lake Trail – Smith River Recreation Area

Island Lake Trail – Smith River Recreation Area

Location: Smith River National Recreation Area, Del Norte County, CA
Difficulty:  Difficult
Features: Hiking trails, bird watching, no dogs, horseback riding, incredible scenery, fishing

The Smith River National Recreation Area is located in northwestern California and is included in the Six Rivers National Forest that is managed by the US Forest Services. The recreation area forms the northern border of the Redwood National and State Parks. The Smith River, together with the Coast Ranges, form the longest National Wild and Scenic River in the US – with the recreation area serving as a good platform for campgrounds and hiking activities.

One of the notable trail routes within the Smith River National Recreation Area is the Island Lake Trail. The trailhead is located in the recreation area with the last half of the trail within the Siskiyou Wilderness.

Note: The area officials highly recommend that camping must be set back as far as possible from the lake.

Top 3 Adventure Hacks

1) Camp responsibly

The Smith River Recreation Area serves as a good campground for camping activities. However, officials highly recommend that camping must be set back as far as possible from the lake.

2) Stay hydrated

You sweat about half to one quart of fluid for every hour you walk in the heat – and around 3 quarts if you walk uphill. Thus it is important to stay hydrated.

3) Stay fueled

Bring food with you that will give you energy – energy bar, trail mix, beef jerky, and high sugar snacks.