Caribou Lakes

Callahan California Hikes

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Caribou Lakes - Callahan California Hikes

The most spectacular place in the Trinity Alps is a matter of some debate among Alps aficionados. But no matter who’s doing the talking, you can bet Caribou Basin will come up for consideration. At 72 acres, Caribou Lake (or Big Caribou, as old-timers often call it) is by far the biggest lake in the Trinity Alps. But size alone does not a beautiful basin make. Add sweeping cliffs and wide benches of white granite, stunning meadows, three more charming lakes, and endless views, and you begin to get a picture of Caribou Basin. Of course, such beauty has not gone unnoticed. Expect plenty of company here. An optional side trip (off trail) to Little Caribou Lake is the best place to find solitude in this region. Highlights: A hike with a view around every corner; expect company, but it’s worth it.

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Trail Statistics & Information


Activity Type:	Hiking
Nearby City:	Callahan
Length:	19 total miles
Elevation Gain:	2,500 feet
Trail Type:	Out-and-back
Skill Level:	Moderate
Duration:	Backpack
Season:	Best mid June through October
Trailhead Elevation:	5,000 feet
Top Elevation:	8,000 feet
Local Contacts:	Trinity Alps Wilderness
Local Maps:	USGS Caribou Lake; USDAFS Trinity Alps Wilderness
Topo Map:	Caribou Lakes Topographic Map
Guide Book:	Hiking California's Trinity Alps Wilderness Guide Book
Driving Directions:	View Guide
Trail Directions:	View Guide

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Weather Conditions

Tonight
Partly cloudy this evening then becoming mostly cloudy. Patchy fog after midnight. Lows in the mid 20s to lower 30s. North winds around 5 mph shifting to the east well after midnight.
Wednesday
Areas of fog and freezing fog in the morning. Partly cloudy in the morning...then mostly cloudy with a 20 percent chance of rain and snow in the afternoon. Snow level 4000 feet in the afternoon. Highs in the lower 40s to lower 50s. Southwest winds 10 to 15 mph.
Wednesday Night
Rain and snow. Snow level 4000 feet rising to 4500 feet after midnight. Snow accumulation up to 1 inch. Lows in the lower 30s to lower 40s. South winds 10 to 15 mph. Chance of precipitation 90 percent.
Thursday
Cloudy. Rain and snow likely in the morning...then chance of rain and snow showers in the afternoon. Snow level 4500 feet rising to 5000 feet in the afternoon. Highs in the mid 40s to mid 50s. South winds 10 to 20 mph. Chance of precipitation 60 percent.