Epic Adventures
National Forest Scenic Byways
A marker for the National Forest Scenic Byways - a designated USDA Forest Service area
Well-maintained highways allow easy passage and create a network of discovery. The National Forest Scenic Byways link the mountains, valleys, rivers, and forests that surround these historic towns. Museums and visitor centers provide maps, guides, and information for your enjoyment. Accommodations ranging from rustic to resort await you. Miles of hiking trails and hundreds of campsites let you experience the wonders of Northern California's beautiful landscape first-hand. Outdoor recreation throughout these areas is virtually unlimited.
Together, Northern California's natural and human histories have adapted to complement one another; Northern California and its inhabitants share this remarkable story through Scenic Byways. The heritage and beauty that make the region so unique are here for you to explore.
Big things come in small packages, a you'll soon discover along the 33-mile Smith River Scenic Byway on Highway 199. The purest in the state, the Smith River bisects the Smith River National Recreation Area and meanders through the northwest corner of California. The forest's neighbor along the byway, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, offers miles of trails through majestic redwood forests.
The Bigfoot Scenic Byway follows Highway 96 near three wild rivers and three wilderness areas. Along the 80-mile, 2-hour route, camping, hiking, wildlife viewing , and river recreation abound. The byway takes visitors through spectacular terrain through by many to be the legendary home of Bigfoot.
Follow an historic travel route once used by early miners, pack trains, loggers, and Native Americans. The Trinity Scenic Byway follows Highway 299 and offers breathtaking views of the Trinity River for much of the 140-mile journey.