An angler's paradise awaits you in Trinity County and River Mountain Guest Ranch!  The world-famous Trinity River, flowing through the canyon nearby, begins in Northwest California’s remote Trinity Alps and winds through miles of stunning wilderness.  It sets itself apart from most other rivers in the West because of its dependable and abundant Winter runs of wild and hatchery-bred steelhead trout, and the Summer runs of Chinook and Coho Salmon.  Whether you simply enjoy using one of our many nearby river access points to cast your line or if you arrange for one of the many local fishing guide services, the wild and scenic Trinity River doesn't disappoint!

If mountain lake fishing is more your style, you can choose from several lakes that are a short drive away, including Lewiston Lake and Trinity Lake.  

The Trinity Alps Wilderness Area has over 600 miles of trails and embraces over 500,000 acres of forest. Chiseled granite peaks and alpine lakes dot the Trinity Alps, with elevations from 2,000 feet in creek drainages to 9,000 feet at summits. This wilderness offers many different trails ranging from 1.5 miles to 15 miles at varying levels of difficulty.  There are also lower-elevation trails within a short drive from the ranch including the Lewiston Lake Trail, Weaverville Basin Trail System, and the Trinity Lake Trail.  Several other nearby trails that are accessible right from the ranch are the Upper Pasture/Ridge Trail and the Riverside Walking Trail.

Kayaking and rafting the Trinity River can be an all-season experience, although certainly colder during certain times of the year.  The upper reaches of the Trinity River (where we are located) extend from Lewiston Dam to the mouth of the North Fork at Helena, and is considered a moderate stretch of river preferred by those more interested in relaxing, family-oriented activities and excursions rather than the excitement of whitewater.  Most people enjoy this section of river by raft, canoe, kayak, or inner tube.  The downriver section from the North Fork to Big Bar is the classic “Pigeon Point Run," commonly known for its most accessible whitewater adventures with Class II – Class IV rapids.  The Burnt Ranch Gorge run, which begins at Cedar Flat and ends at the Hawkins Bar River Access, is extreme class five whitewater and should only be run by experts experienced in heavy, technical rapids.  There are a few licensed outfitters who offer trips through the Burnt Ranch Gorge.  

There are many rafting companies.  

For more information including a list of guides and rafting companies offering trips on the Trinity River, contact the Weaverville Ranger District office at 530-623-2121 or the Trinity County Chamber of Commerce at 530-623-6101.  

Remember to stay safe while having fun on the river!

There are a number of river access points nearby where guests can cool off in one of our local swimming holes, take a plunge off a large boulder, set up a chair in the sand, or simply wade in the cool, clear mountain waters of the Trinity River.  For the more adventurous souls, Trinity County boasts of having some of the best swimming holes in the entire state.  A couple of the best ones, Helena and Paradise Swimming Holes, are located just west of Weaverville.  A word of caution though, swimming in swimming holes and cliff jumping can be extremely dangerous and unpredictable outdoor activities that pose significant risks regarding personal safety. Changing water levels, unseen rocks, and river bottoms that have shifted with currents and seasonal weather can turn a well-known jumping area into a serious hazard!

 The Shasta-Trinity National Forest offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.  Just some of the many places nearby include the Sven-Olbertson Side Channel below Lewiston Dam where you can view nesting American Bald Eagles, .  .  , Coots Roost and Pine Cove Boat Ramp on Lewiston Lake, the Jones Valley and Packers Bay areas of Shasta Lake and the McCloud River Loop area east of the town of McCloud. 

With a little luck, persistence, and patience, unforgettable wildlife experiences can result.  Please do not feed wild animals you encounter.

Getting off the beaten path in a day drive can uncover many  of Northern California's hidden gems.  For shorter excursions, explore an authentic gold rush-era ghost town, marvel at one of nature's many miracles at Natural Bridge, maybe spot our local elk herd on the Reading Creek/Blanchards Flat/Deerlick Springs Loop, or simply take a leisurely scenic drive on the Lewiston Lake and Trinity Lake Loop Drive.  For the more adventurous explorers, head out to the coast to enjoy a day at the beach, take in the coastal redwoods, marvel at the architecture of the famous Sundial Bridge at Redding's Turtle Bay Park, or explore the incredible Shasta Caverns at Lake Shasta. 

Weaverville was established in 1850 as a mining settlement and the county seat for Trinity County.  Situated along Highway 299, the town combines a rich history with plenty of recreational, cultural, and community activities, events, and amenities.  The historic downtown area of Weaverville is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places.  In addition to historic buildings, unique architecture, and three spiral staircases, the historic district is also the home of the Joss House Taoist Temple and State Park, and the Jake Jackson Museum.  Today Weaverville offers something for everyone including galleries, shopping, dining, lodging, performing arts, golfing, hiking, biking, bowling, and even historic drinking establishments.  Step back in time, refresh your soul, and enjoy Weaverville’s traditions, hospitality, and small-town atmosphere.