The South Fork Trinity River is one of the largest undammed river systems in California. The river and its tributaries support important populations of threatened and endangered salmon and steelhead and old-growth forest dependent wildlife species. The river and tributaries also offer outstanding outdoor recreation opportunities.
Hayfork Creek is the largest free flowing tributary to the South Fork Trinity River. The Forest Service recommended Wild & Scenic River protection for the lower segment of Hayfork Creek because its cold water tributaries support moderate to high populations of steelhead, salmon, and native rainbow trout, which also contribute to the outstanding fishery value of the South Fork Trinity.
The creek carves a scenic gorge along the foot of Pattison Mountain and the proposed Pattison Wilderness. Many of the small streams draining into Hayfork Creek provide cold water refugia for the creek’s anadromous fish. Hayfork Creek also offers class IV-V whitewater boating opportunities. Much of Hayfork Creek is recommended for protection by the Forest Service.
Management Agency: U.S. Forest Service ~ Shasta-Trinity & Six Rivers National Forests
Location: Trinity & Humboldt Counties, CA 2nd Congressional District
Watershed: Trinity River
Proposed Wild & Scenic River Miles: 16.4