Backpack Illinois River Trail
Fishing options, old growth trees, a vast array of wildlife and jagged canyons are only some of the features of the 27-mile Illinois River Trail. Though difficult and strenuous at times, the trail unfailingly rewards with mile upon mile of breathtaking summer wildflowers and knee-buckling mountain scenery.

Camp on a Mountaintoop
Usually its only backpackers who get to savor the kind of lofty camping available atop 6,242-foot Bolan Mountain, but thanks to a decommissioned fire observatory that's been turned into a rustic cabin, intrepid campers can sample mountaintop living. The cabin's large windows afford unimpeded panoramic views. Rentals are for a nominal fee and the cabin is open during the snow-free months only.

Day-Hike the Vulcan Lake Trail
If you only have time for a day hike, then make the trek to Vulcan Lake. This 1.4-mile hike lies at an elevation of 3,600 feet above sea level. Although it's a fairly moderate hike over hills and rocky surfaces, the trail offers a glimpse of some of the prime wonders of the Siskiyou. Make no mistake, this is not wilderness, since the trail features bathrooms and picnic tables. But in its short length, the trail will deliver you to Vulcan's glacial cirque lake, which is one of the forest's most distinctive geological features.

Explore the Kalmiopsis Wilderness
This vast wilderness sweeps for 180,000 acres across the center of the Siskiyou National orest. A collection of wild rivers, jagged rock and gaping canyons mark its rugged terrain. A product of 40 million years of erosive forces, Kalmiopsis's steep slopes and sharp rock configurations fascinate both geologists and mountain-lovers alike. The landscape also harbors lakes formed by alpine glaciers, slab-like granite protrusions and structurally complex rock formations due to ancient faulting which make the area one of the most talked about areas in Siskiyou. Other wilderness areas within the forest that you may wish to investigate are the Grassy Knob, Red Buttes, Siskiyou and Wild Rogue.

Fish the Rogue
The Rogue River has been attracting anglers from all over the world for years, and the good news is that its reputation and its fish populations are still intact despite all of the attention. The river is primed with trout and hosts one of the largest runs of salmon outside of Alaska.

Mountain Bike the Taylor Creek Trail
Separated into three distinct sections, this singletrack trail is a Siskiyou favorite. While the first (upper) part caters to bikers more interested in an easy or moderate trail, the middle 2.4 miles tends to be more difficult - - skipping over brooks and ascending a steep hill. The third part has been nicknamed the Jedi Trail by local bikers because of its similarity to the futuristic forest bike race scene from Return of the Jedi . Try it out and see if you agree.

Ride the Illinois River
Beware the Illinois! This impressive Pacific-bound river subjects rafters and canoers to 150 rapids - - including many in the Class IV - V range. The river ranks among some of the best whitewater rides in the nation, and should not be left off your list when it comes to planning a whitewater trip in the Siskiyou area. Even experienced river runners can be excused for being a bit nervous about attempting these 35 miles of frothing whitewater action.