This section of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail traverses the northwestern flanks of Red Mountain and offers exceptional views of Mt. McLoughlin, the rim of Crater Lake, and Dutchman Peak lookout. Wildflowers are usually in full display by midsummer. There are no water sources along this trail route.

For those wishing to camp overnight in this area, Wrangle campground is located one mile west of Wrangle Gap. Facilities include picnic tables, fire pits, vault toilets, and water from haul pump (July – Sept.)

Beginning at Wrangle Gap, the trail traverses a gradual, northwestern contour along the flanks of Red Mountain. The trail passes through a Shasta Red Fir and Mountain Hemlock forest as it continues to contour the ridgeline. Mt. McLoughlin, a 9495 feet composite volcano, looms to the north with good views of Brown Mountain and the Mountain Lakes Rim to the east.

The trail emerges in to open country and small meadows blanketed with wildflowers. Thick mounds of beargrass dot the mountainside. Look for signs of wildlife – deer, black bear, and coyote are frequently seen in the meadow areas. The trail contours around Monogram Lakes before beginning its moderate descent to Siskiyou Gap. This section of trail ends on Forest Road #20, at the “true” Siskiyou Gap, about one mile west of the junction of Forest Road #22.

Directions: From Ashland: Access #1 (Wrangle Gap) : Travel south on Interstate 5 for approximately 10 miles to the Mount Ashland exit. Turn right and drive 1/4 mile to Mount Ashland Road. Turn right on to Mount Ashland Road (County Road 1151), and continue on Forest road #20 to Wrangle Gap. The trail begins to the right of the junction with Forest Road #20 and road #2030. Wrangle Campground is located 1 mile west of this junction on road #2030.Access #2 (Siskiyou Gap) : Follow the directions as above to the Mount Ashland Road. Turn right on to the Mount Ashland road and drive 17 miles to where the PCNST crosses Road #20, 1 mile west of the junction with Forest Road 22 and Road 20. There is parking for 2-3 vehicles in a turnout area. * NOTE: If you have 2 vehicles, this is a good trail to shuttle a car and hike one way. Leave a car at access #2 and begin your hike at access #1.

Seasonal Access: Normally Accessible: June-October

Facility Type: Trail