This 15 mile trail, located at he southern edge of the Smith River NRA, follows the National Recreation Area boundary. Elk Hole (at 1.5 miles) and Flatiron Lake (at 6.5 miles) provide water and views of surrounding mountains. The trailhead is at the end of the Gasquet/Orleans Road, a two hour drive on paved road from the Smith River NRA Visitor Center.

Directions: From Crescent City, Take Hwy. 101 to the junction with Hwy. 199. Go east on 199 to South Fork Road. Turn right on South Fork Rd and continue on to the Gasquet Orleans Rd. The trailhead is located at the end of the Gasquet Orleans Road, a two hour drive from the Smith River NRA Visitor Center.

Elevation: 5,000 feet

Ending Elevation: 5,700 feet

Elevation Gain: 700 feet

Distance: 15 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Visitor Information