Summit Trail – Modoc National Forest – South Warner Wilderness

Summit Trail – Modoc National Forest – South Warner Wilderness

Summit Trail – Modoc National Forest – South Warner Wilderness

Location: Modoc County, CA
Difficulty: Moderate
Features: Hiking trails, bird watching, dogs allowed, incredible scenery, wildlife observation

The South Warner Wilderness is a federally designated wilderness area located in Alturas, California. It is found within the Modoc National Forest and is managed by the US Forest Service. The Warner Crest divides the water – west into the Sacramento/Pit River drainage and east into the Great Basin Alkali lakes of Surprise Valley. The wilderness area is home to notable peaks such as the Emerson Peak and Squaw Peak. It is also home to interesting and adventurous trails, one of which is the Summit Trail.

The Summit Trail stretches from the Pepperdine Campground and ends at Patterson Camp. The trail takes hikers through large meadows, pines, cattle, and aspens. It also provides an avenue to access the Patterson Lake and other trails.

Note: Federal wilderness area regulations and restrictions apply in this area. Leave No Trace (LNT) is highly encouraged. Moreover, campers are encouraged to camp at least 100 feet from fragile areas and bury human waste 200 feet from water, trails, and campsites. Take note that a campfire permit is required in this area.

Top 3 Adventure Hacks

1) Camp comfortably

Whether it may be a tent, an inflatable pad, a sleeping bag, or a hammock, make sure that these are comfortable – being ultralight is a plus factor.

2) Create quality meals

Camping would not be complete without an outdoor cooking device. Make quality meals in between treks, on rest periods, and during camping trips. Moreover, a quality outdoor cooking system us vital to make any trip enjoyable.

3) Leave no trace

Federal wilderness area regulations and restrictions apply in this area. Campers are encouraged to camp at least 100 feet from fragile areas and bury human waste 200 feet from water, trails, and campsites. A campfire permit is required in this area.