Herd Peak Trail

This trail follows a graded dirt road through privately owned forest before entering Klamath National Forest for the climb to Herd Peak’s summit. Fire spotters occupy the lookout tower during the fire season—normally late May to mid September. During this time, the gate is open and you can visit the lookout in your vehicle. Visiting hours are from 9:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. You are normally welcome to climb the tower with permission from the lookout on duty. The gate is closed outside fire season or these hours, in which case it is a 1-mile hike from the locked gate to the lookout tower. The trail forms part of a loop used by mountain bikers that starts and ends at the start of the vehicle route. It is rated for moderate to advanced riders. Special Attractions: Views of Mount Shasta and the surrounding forests; Herd Peak Fire Lookout. High-clearance 4WDs are preferred, but any high-clearance vehicle is acceptable. Expect a rough road surface; mud and sand are possible but will be easily passable. You may encounter rocks up to 6 inches in diameter, a loose road surface, and shelf roads, though these will be wide enough for passing or will have adequate pull-offs.