Caribou Creek Trail

The feel

A steep trail drops from the gravel parking lot to the creek, inside the Caribou Creek Recreational Mining Area next to the Lion's Head rock formation. Only foot traffic is allowed, so there are no ATVs. The area is relatively undeveloped, and the trail is difficult at times because of its steep grade and lack of upkeep.

People come with a gold pan and a hand shovel. Dall sheep, black and grizzly bears, and gray wolves have been seen here, and hiking, picnicking, photography and wildflower viewing are all permitted.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 3.1 miles total, with 725 ft of gain. A steep trail, half a mile long, leads down from the gravel lot to the creek.

Time

About 1.5 hours.

Parking

A gravel parking lot at the turnoff, just south of the Caribou Creek bridge near mile marker 104 on the Glenn Highway.

Kids

Physical fitness, health and age should be considered because of the steep trail.

Hazards

Steep grade and little upkeep, so watch your footing. Bears and wolves have been seen in the area.

Season and access

Gold pans and hand shovels are allowed year round. Between May 15 and July 15 metal detectors, small sluice boxes, high bankers and small suction dredges are also allowed.

Mingo says

Time your trip for the early window when extra mining gear is allowed if you want more than a pan and shovel. Look for spots where the current slows, behind a boulder or inside a bend.

Before you go

• Bring a gold pan and a hand shovel.
• Take a hiking stick for the steep trail down.
• Stay within the active floodplain, the only place recreational mining is allowed, and do not stake a claim.
• Gas, food and lodging are within 10 miles at private facilities.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.