Our group of four met at 9 AM in Redding. Less than an hour later, we arrived at our makeshift trailhead, located about 0.5 mile beyond the East Weaver Creek Campground. This well-shaded out-and-back trail starts at an elevation of ~2,200 feet and climbs ~400 feet over a distance of two miles before ending at the creek’s edge—a perfect spot for a picnic. Here, we had a bite to eat while enjoying the sound of the creek before retracing our steps.
May 21, 2022.
We saw many beautiful flowers including calypso orchid and numerous fritillary lilies. Also in bloom were Pacific madrones and bigleaf maples.
Photo by Doug Mandel.
Additionally, we found California ground-cone in bloom. This interesting plant, which resembles a Douglas-fir cone, parasitizes madrones and manzanitas to obtain nutrients. Because this wildflower does not make its own food, it is completely dependent upon its host for survival.
Getting to the East Weaver Creek Trail is easy. Drive from Redding to Weaverville via Hwy 299, turn right onto Hwy 3 and travel northward for 1.6 miles. Turn left onto East Weaver Creek Road and drive another 1.6 miles to arrive at the aforementioned campground. You may begin your hike here or continue another half mile to park in a pullout on the left side of the dirt road.
Please enjoy the following photographs! ~Chris Harvey
