Mount Eddy ranks No. 56 among the 57 ultra-prominent peaks in the contiguous United States, rising 9,025 feet in the Trinity Divide of the Klamath Mountains in northern California, with 5,153 feet of clean prominence. It is the highest summit in the Trinity Divide and commonly cited as the highest peak in the United States west of Interstate 5. Most hikers use the Parks Creek Trail for 9.5 to 10.5 miles round-trip with 2,150 to 2,500 feet of gain on Class 1 terrain. Self-issue wilderness permits are required for overnight camping.
The peak's significance lies not in technical challenge but in its distinctiveness as a remote alpine summit accessible via high-altitude lakes and maintained trails. Surrounding the peak are several alpine lakes of exceptional clarity, meadows that support rare botanical species including carnivorous pitcher plants, and the historic route of the Sisson-Callahan National Recreation Trail, established in the 1880s to link ranger stations across the Trinity Divide.
Recommended Route
Parks Creek Trail to Summit
The standard Parks Creek route gains approximately 2,150 to 2,500 feet over 9.5 to 10.5 miles round-trip, typically requiring 5 to 7 hours. The route begins at Parks Creek Summit Trailhead at 6,800 feet and follows the Pacific Crest Trail southbound across nearly flat terrain to Deadfall Meadows at approximately 7,400 feet. From there, a well-signed junction leads to the Deadfall Lakes basin, where the trail climbs steadily through alpine terrain to Upper Deadfall Lake at approximately 7,800 feet. From the upper lakes, the route ascends steep, rocky switchbacks toward Deadfall Summit (approximately 9,000 feet) and the summit ridge before the short final approach to Mount Eddy's broad summit. The upper switchbacks are rocky and loose in places, requiring careful foot placement but no scrambling.
Key Landmarks
- Deadfall Meadows (approximately 7,400 ft)
- Upper Deadfall Lake (approximately 7,800 ft)
- Deadfall Summit (approximately 9,000 ft)
warning Mount Eddy's remote location at the crest of the Trinity Divide exposes hikers to rapid weather changes. Summer afternoon thunderstorms are common from July through September. Early-season ascents in June may encounter significant snow above 8,500 feet. Afternoon winds can be severe at the summit.
Permits & Camping
Climbing Permits
No wilderness permit is required for day hiking. Overnight camping at Deadfall Lakes requires a free self-issue wilderness permit available at Parks Creek Trailhead or by contacting Mount Shasta Ranger Station at (530) 926-4511. A California campfire permit is required year-round if using a stove or campfire. Campfire permits are free and available online at permit.preventwildfiresca.org or at any Forest Service ranger station.
Camping & Wilderness
The Deadfall Lakes basin has commonly used backcountry campsites, particularly near Middle Deadfall Lake. Upper Deadfall Lake, while popular, sits in a fragile alpine meadow that is exposed to wind and requires careful site selection to minimize impact. Avoid camping in or adjacent to meadows and practice low-impact techniques. Water is abundant from alpine lakes. Parks Creek Summit Trailhead has a map kiosk and vault toilet; verify current facility status with the ranger station. Road access to Parks Creek is seasonal, with typical access from mid-June through mid-October; early-season and late-season snow can block Forest Road 17.
Wildlife & Seasonal Conditions
June through October is the standard climbing window, with typical road access from mid-June through mid-October. The route is Class 1 hiking throughout with no scrambling, rope work, or specialized mountain skills required. Trekking poles are strongly recommended for boggy meadow sections and loose upper switchbacks. Early-season ascents in June may encounter significant snow above 8,500 feet.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Lightning Exposure
- Hypothermia
- Extreme Wind & Weather
- Bears & Wildlife
- Dehydration
Summit Location
location_on Mount Eddy · CA
Data source: Shasta-Trinity National Forest, Mount Shasta Trail Association, ListsOfJohn, USGS; PeakBagger (elevation, prominence)
