Black Butte Lake

Are you and your pup looking for a great hiking destination in northern-central California? Then it is time to check out the Black Butte Lake trails located in Orland.  You and your pup will love adventuring along your choice of paths, with never-ending discoveries to be made.

Pick up the trailheads at the main entrance to the Black Butte Lake Recreation Area. There are 4 choices of hikes and plenty of parking lots to accommodate you. Three of the trails are approximately 4 miles long. Take the Osprey Trail or the Coyote Trail which meander around the northern sections of the recreation area in an east and west direction, or the Bobcat Trail running along the northwest portion.

The Buckhorn Trail is your last choice, and is the shortest of the trails, running approximately 2.5 miles, and spanning the western section of recreation area. This trail, as well as the Osprey Trail, will take you along the Black Butte Lake for spectacular scenery. All the trails are rated as moderate and have some elevation changes along the way. Most pup-abilities will be well-suited for these treks, but newbie pup-hikers might want to take it easy to acclimate themselves to this fun sport. You will run through open spaces and forested areas on a natural-surface trail footing, which is easy on the paws and feet!

Many residents and visitors enjoy a nature walk, and birders are especially prevalent here. Don’t forget your binoculars. Fido will love taking a dip in the lake in the more out-of-the-way places to cool themselves. The weather can get very hot, so plan ways to keep from getting overheated.

Each parking lot offers restrooms at the trailheads, but bring your own water bottles. Cleaning up after your pup is much appreciated. Bicyclists can use these trails as well, so keep Fido close by.

The Black Butte Lake Trail has something to offer every hiker. Pack up your pup and head there today!