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California National Historic Trail

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

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California National Historic Trail

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is a federal agency that Congress made responsible for the care and development of public land. The BLM oversees general public land use while also preserving the cultural and historic value of US land.

The Nobles Emigrant Trail is part of the California National Historic Trail just outside Susanville, CA. This historic trail was established in 1852 when William Nobles chartered a new wagon route for what was then the city of Shasta. This route branches off from the Applegate Trail and heads off into the southwest through the Smoke Creek Desert, going to Susanville and the Honey Lake Valley. Some of the activities offered on this trail include camping, hiking, hunting, horseback riding, and biking. The Nobles Emigrant Trail also passes through the outskirts of the Lassen Volcanic National Park.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

PCT and Rainbow Lake Trail

This loop trail goes from Butte Lake to Snag Lake and travels through the Lassen Volcanic National Park. The trail is popular because it passes around a lake. You can also use this trail for camping if walking the entire loop is too tiring.

Length: 12.5 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Bald Mountain Loop

The Bald Mountain Trails are 13 loops that branch off and connect to each other. There are several maps and signage that prevent visitors from getting lost. The trail features gentle elevation throughout.

Length: 6.7 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Susan River Path

The Susan River Path is a fairly easy and short out-and-back trail. Paved for the most part, it is, on average, five feet wide. It is also very easy to navigate for people with mobility issues or strollers.

Length: 3.3 miles

Intensity: Easy

Skyline Park Loop

Skyline Park Loop is a very easy-to-travel loop trail that sees regular use. It is located near Susanville and is mainly enjoyed for its scenic view of wildflowers.

Length: 1.1 miles

Intensity: Easy

Fishing and Boating

The Nobles Emigrant Trail passes by Honey Lake, and you can expect to find a wide range of fish in its waters. You can mostly expect to catch rainbow trout, bluegill, and some species of smallmouth bass. While Honey Lake does not see regular swimmers, the Nobles Emigrant Trail does have the Trego Hot Springs, which are very popular with visitors.

Climbing

There aren’t many regularly used climbing sites on the Nobles Emigrant Trail, but if you make a short trip to the nearby Lassen Volcanic National Park, you will see some good spots to try out. Belly Button is the biggest crag in the Lassen Volcanic National Park, which makes it a popular spot for both amateur and professional climbers. The climb is very simple, and depending on the route you take, you can expect mostly traditional climbing. Some routes include top-rope climbing. Eagle Peak is a popular spot for climbers who visit Lassen Volcanic National Park. It features a steep cliffside that can be climbed mainly via bouldering.

Wildlife Viewing

You can look forward to plenty of wildlife on the Nobles Emigrant Trail, especially since it covers such a vast piece of land. Species such as sagebrush lizards, mountain chickadees, and mountain lions are commonly spotted. Thankfully, the Noble Emigrant Trail has been recognized as a wildlife viewing area, so many of the local species are protected from hunting.

Picnicking

There are several good spots to picnic or camp along the Nobles Emigrant Trail. Several of these offer scenic views and amenities such as campfire rings, firepits, and restrooms.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

BLM RV camping is possible throughout the Nobles Emigrant Trail, especially around the Whiskeytown Shasta Trinity National Recreation Area. There, you can find Hat Creek Resort, which offers RV and tent camping from April 15 through Oct. 31. This campground is situated 11 miles from the Lassen Volcanic National Park, and it accepts reservations online. You can also choose to stay at Lassen RV Resort, which offers amenities such as covered propane grills, picnic pavilions, and commercial kitchens. RV camping rates start at $38 a night.

Free Camping

Dispersed camping opportunities can be found throughout the trail. The Butte Creek campground offers 10 semi-developed sites. This campground works on a first-come, first-served basis, and although it offers no drinking water, it does have vault restrooms. Keep in mind that this site is not maintained during the winter.

RV Rentals Near California National Historic Trail Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your California National Historic Trail BLM trip

Preparation is essential for any camping trip, so be sure to get everything on your list ready before you head out. First, select your campground. You need to consider the needs you have and compare them to what campsites offer you.

Next, make your reservation. Although some campsites work on a first-come, first-served basis, many require their guests to reserve a spot ahead of time.

Finally, you'll want to check the camping regulations in the area. They may cover issues such as food storage, wood gathering, quiet hours, and rules about pets. If you are concerned that you might overlook something, be sure you check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

The Nobles Emigrant Trail and nearby national parks are all of great cultural and historic value. Many of the animals found in this area are protected as part of its status as a designated wildlife viewing area, so be mindful of the footprint that you leave behind. Visitors must adhere to local rules governing trash disposal, campsite cleanup, and interactions with wildlife. Travelers must properly dispose of trash and waste and make sure no traces of their visit are left behind when they leave the campsite.

California National Historic Trail Location

Visitors can access a portion of the Nobles Emigrant Trail from just outside of Susanville by going through Smoke Creek Road off of Highway 395 North.

Ready to visit the Nobles Emigrant Trail? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night, where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and a nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.