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Satellite imagery via Esri World Imagery
EasyGround

South Fork Trail

Burnt Ranch, California · Humboldt County · 6E39

Old ford trail (marked "horses" once). Actually getting a horse down to the river edge may not be possible anymore. (Legal, not wise.)

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40.75939, -123.55465
Open in OpenStreetMap
5-Day Forecast

Weather at South Fork Trail

Live forecast for the trailhead. Use it to pack and time your hike.

Avg High98°F
Avg Low63°F
Peak Rain Chance0%
Humidity33%
UV (avg)6
Today
🌫
Fog
93°/55°
🌬 11mph
↑ 7:09 AM ↓ 6:57 PM
Thu
☁️
Overcast
97°/68°
🌬 6mph
↑ 7:10 AM ↓ 6:55 PM
Fri
☁️
Overcast
97°/65°
🌬 7mph
↑ 7:11 AM ↓ 6:54 PM
Sat
⛅
Partly Cloudy
102°/62°
🌬 6mph
↑ 7:13 AM ↓ 6:52 PM
Sun
☁️
Overcast
99°/65°
🌬 8mph
↑ 7:14 AM ↓ 6:50 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About South Fork Trail

Old ford trail (marked "horses" once). Actually getting a horse down to the river edge may not be possible anymore. (Legal, not wise.)

What “Easy” Means

Gentle terrain, well-marked. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.

What to Pack & Wear

Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    UPF sun shirt (long sleeve)
    Cooler than direct sun on bare skin.
  • 🩳
    Light shorts/skirt
    Loose-fit, breathable.
  • 🧢
    Wide-brimmed sun hat
    Plus a buff/bandana you can wet for cooling.
  • 🕶
    Polarized sunglasses
    Critical for glare from sun + sand/water.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection (UV 6)
    SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Trail Safety in California

Trail conditions in California change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:

  • Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
  • Tell someone your plan and expected return time
  • Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
  • Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is South Fork Trail?

South Fork Trail is rated Easy. Suitable for most hikers including families.

Can I ride a bike on South Fork Trail?

Yes — bicycles are allowed on this trail.

Are horses allowed on South Fork Trail?

Yes — horseback riding is permitted.

What is the trail surface on South Fork Trail?

The surface is ground. Natural surface — sturdy footwear recommended; can be muddy after rain.

When is the best time to hike South Fork Trail?

California has trail conditions that vary by season. Spring and fall usually offer the best mix of temperature and trail conditions. Check the 5-day forecast above for current outlook. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.