Called “The Smiles of Gods” by the native Modoc people who first settled the area, the Modoc National Forest is located in northeastern California and is a 1,654,392-acre diverse and mountainous area full of pine forests, lakes, meadows, streams, canyons, wetlands, lava beds, and vast high desert plateaus.

The lower foothills are mostly covered by bitterbrush and curl-leaf mahogany, but as you go higher, you will encounter dense forests of ponderosa pine, red and white fir, aspen, and incense cedar.

Even higher, they are succeeded by lodgepole and western white pines. Almost 43,400 acres consist of old-growth forests.

Scenic drives, hiking trails, and camping grounds provide easy access to this magnificently wild and tranquil area. Swim at Medicine Lake, fish Ash Creek, ride a bike or horse, watch the birds or look for wildlife; Modoc will give you an unforgettable time.

225 West 8th Street, Alturas, CA 96101, Phone: 530-233-5811

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