Three Sisters Loop Trail – Lava Beds National Monument

Three Sisters Loop Trail – Lava Beds National Monument

Location: Tulelake, CA
Length: 5.2 miles
Difficulty: Intermediate
Features: Backpacking, Camping, Hiking, Nature Trips, Walking, Bird Watching, Cave, Views, Wildlife, No Dogs

About the Three Sisters Loop

The Three Sisters Loop Trail is a lengthy hike on the Indian Well Campground. The trail passes the Schonchin Wilderness Area and connects with the Lyons Trail. The maximum elevation of the trail is 4,627 ft., 4,286 ft. at a minimum and a total elevation range of 341 ft.

Trails In The Lava Beds National Monument

Travel east into the wilderness of Lava Beds National Monument as it moves downward slightly through the open vastness of the brushes and wildflower. A collapsed lava tube emerges occasionally along the trail, especially within the first mile. Sooner or later, the trail passes across an old lava flow densely scattered with juniper trees. Head east through the open terrain and follow the trail north down an old dirt road. Traveling north, the trail momentarily leaves Lava Beds National Monument and enters Modoc National Forest. A slight split in the trail appears where it is possible to go north or move west; turn west to proceed down the Three Sisters Loop Trail. Traveling north just leads to more gravel roads and miles of open wilderness.

Top 3 Adventure Hacks

1) Keep Your Backpack Light

Try to organize and measure your hiking gear. This will allow you to determine how appropriate (weight-wise) your things are and which ones are not that important for the hike. You have to be smart when it comes to your things, especially if you’re about to take a long-distance hike.

2) Split The Heavy Load

If you have a lot of things to carry that are too important for the long hike, a great opportunity to reduce the load is by sharing it with the people who are coming with you, like a friend or a family member.

3) Pack Based on the Weather

Before packing your clothes, sleeping bag, or any other hiking essentials, don’t forget to pack based on the weather. This is one of the most important considerations that you need to take into account prior to your journey.