Mill Creek Falls In Modoc County In Northern California Is So Little-Known, You Just Might Have It All To Yourself

The Warner Mountains run north to south, extending into southern Oregon. The 85-mile-long range has several peaks, the tallest being Eagle Peak with an elevation of 9,892 feet. Mill Creek Falls is located in the southern part of the Warner Mountains, called the South Warner Wilderness. This area is about 20 minutes from the town of Likely. This arid region of California is sparsely populated and little-known, perhaps due to its isolation from major cities and airports.

The Mill Creek Falls Trail is a 3.4-mile out-and-back trail to the waterfall. The falls cascade about 50 feet over the edge of a rocky cliff. The canyon walls are lined with green vegetation, making this waterfall a serene sight to see. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting out, this trail offers a rewarding journey through one of California’s most pristine wilderness areas, complete with stunning vistas and possible wildlife sightings. Note that this trail and waterfall are in Modoc County. There is another, more popular trail with the same name near the town of Mineral, located in Lassen National Forest.

This is not the well-known Clear Lake in California, but a much smaller, hidden lake at an elevation of 7,700 feet. It is also not Clear Lake Reservoir in Modoc County. This Clear Lake is a small, pristine lake that’s great for fishing– it is regularly stocked with rainbow trout. The water is cold and clear because it’s fed by snow melt.

The campground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis, but it only receives light usage so chances are good you’ll be able to get a spot. Campers will have access to water and vault toilets. In addition, each site has a picnic table. The campground is usually open from early June to late October.

The South Warner Wilderness is a great place for anyone who enjoys hiking, horseback riding, and spending time in nature. There are many trails for hikers and horseback riders, plus corrals for horses, and dozens of streams and peaks to explore. Mill Creek Falls is within Modoc National Forest, which encompasses most of the Warner Mountains. The forest is home to black bears, mountain lions, deer, elk, and many bird species.

When exploring any pristine wilderness area, keep in mind the “leave no trace” rules, and take all trash with you when you leave. Since this is such a rural area, be sure to be prepared with snacks and water.