Near Old Caribou Lakes Trail
Steep descent to the lake
Near Old Caribou Lakes Trail
Creek crossing near the big flat campground trailhead in Sep. 2017
Near Old Caribou Lakes Trail
360 view from pass on Old Caribou Trail.

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Old Caribou Lakes Trail

3.0 (2 Ratings)
A varied trail with consistent grade until a very steep up followed by a steep descent to the lakes.
4.8
mi
Distance
3,481
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
LakeRiver/CreekSwimmingViews

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
4.8mi
Distance
3,481ft
Elevation Gain
1,314ft
Elevation Loss
45%
Max Grade
8,136ft
High Point
4,943ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
From the shared trailhead with the New Caribou Lakes Trail, descend to the creek and keep an eye out for a tree on the left with a sign that simply says "Trail" with an arrow pointed across the creek. Cross the rocks and follow signs for "Caribou Lakes Trail." From there it is a rolling, singletrack trail with a lot of variety from pine forest to granite faces. After several short switchbacks and two long ones, you'll come to a split off for "Caribou Lakes Old Trail" on the left. Follow this trail for a very steep climb up to a beautiful pass with gorgeous 360-degree views including Mt. Shasta in the distance. The trail then dives down steep grades until it meets back up with the New Trail. Take a left after the trails join to the Lower Caribou Lake before a quick climb to the finish at Upper Caribou Lake. There are plenty of primitive campsites at both Upper and Lower Caribou with beautifully clear waters to refresh you.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Cameron Cook