Located along the famed Pacific Crest Trail, Humboldt Peak in Lassen National Forest offers views of Lassen Peak among red fir.
Humboldt Peak
The Humboldt Peak hike offers a short high-country hike to 7,087-foot peak, almost the highest point in the county. A short hike on the Pacific Crest Trail, and then up a faint climbers trail to the summit of Humboldt Peak. Hike through mostly red fir forest and then emerge to open views out to Lassen Peak. This hike offers a 360-degree view on the summit to faraway places. From the top, you might be able to see the tip of Mount Shasta on a clear day.
UPDATE 11/17/21: Both of these hikes had a large majority of trees killed in Dixie Fire; while still hikeable, the experience will be distinctly different than it was pre-fire.
Key Info
Trail Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Length & Type: 3.2 mile out-and-back
Best Used: July — October
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Trail Map: Chico Hiking Association
Humboldt Peak to Cold Springs
Discover some great views along the highest ridge in Butte County as you hike from Humboldt Peak to Cold Springs. Following the Pacific Crest Trail, you’ll travel by the county’s highest point to the clear, cold water of Cold Springs at Humbug Summit. Overall, you’ll enjoy a mild hike, but the 1000-foot total elevation gain pushes this to a moderately challenging one. You’ll want to arrange a shuttle for drop-off and pick-up.
Key Info
Trail Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Length & Type: 6.8 mile point-to-point, shuttle required
Best Used: July — October
Dogs: Allowed on leash
Trail Map: Chico Hiking Association
Other Information: If you plan on making this small part of a long-distance trek along the PCT, make sure to get the appropriate permit.
Driving Directions
From Chico, follow CA-32 East towards Humboldt Road. Turn right onto Humboldt Road and drive for 12 miles, doing past Jonesville. After you pass Jonesville, go about 3.5 miles and turn left for a turnout. Park here and look for the trailhead.