Underwood Proposed Wilderness

Distance (one way): Approximately 3 miles to the South Fork Trinity River, and 7 miles to the end of the trail at Mule Bridge.

Features: The Underwood Proposed Wilderness is located along the boundary of Humboldt and Trinity counties in the Six Rivers National Forest 4 miles east of the town of Willow Creek. The South Fork Trail follows the South Fork Trinity River for 7 miles through the Underwood Proposed Wilderness. Along the way, it accesses great swimming holes and old-growth forest and offers outstanding spring wildflower displays. The South Fork Trinity is a National Wild and Scenic River, which means that it can never be dammed and that the land along it must be protected. The South Fork Trinity River hosts endangered salmon and steelhead trout populations. The Underwood Proposed Wilderness also provides important habitat for mountain lion, bear, eagle, osprey, otter, mink and a long list of other species.

Learn more about the Trinity Wild & Scenic River here.

Driving Directions: From Highway 299 almost 4 miles east of Willow Creek, turn right (south) on South Fork Road. Drive south on the road until it dead-ends at the trailhead.

Caution: Weather and road conditions can change in an instant. Always check with the managing agency before embarking on a trip. Always hike with a friend and carry a cell phone for emergencies. Bring plenty of drinking water, food, and clothing for changing weather conditions. Let someone know where you are going and when you intend to be back. Remember, California’s wild places are beautiful but they can also be dangerous to the unprepared and unwary. The California Wilderness Coalition assumes no liability if you intend to visit any of the wild places featured in our materials.