Porcupine and Todd Lakes

Six hikers met to hike on the PCT outside of Mt. Shasta City. We started from Picayune Point just north of the Gumboot parking area. Shortly after we headed out we could see Picayune Lake to our left. We could see that some forest roads led down there, but no one in our group had ever been. We then passed Picayune peak at 7078′, elevation to the left and can see a great view of Mount Shasta on our right.

We continue on and pass by White Ridge to our right and we see a spring that is a water source for PCT hikers. Continuing on we went by two areas that had Darlingtonia Californica growing. We eventually came to the turn off to Porcupine Lake and climbed up the trail. We enjoyed our lunch on the rocks. The lake had more water than I had seen before. I am guessing that is because of the big snow year in 2022/2023.

As we came back down to the trail, we could see the Castle Crags and all the way to Lassen Peak. When we reached the PCT again, we headed north to the Toad Lake overlook. We had great views of Mount Shasta and the backside of Mount Eddy. From there, we turned around and hiked on the PCT back to our cars.

Hike Leader: Francie

Photos By: Francie