Mill Creek Trail

Overview

The Mill Creek Trail offers visitors a fantastic opportunity to observe diverse species of fish meandering up a shimmering stream under the shade of centuries-old redwood trees. While many fisherman use this trail in the morning while on the hunt for cutthroat trout, steelhead, Chinook salmon, and coho, if you travel it in the afternoon, you very well could have it all to yourself. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for edible berries trailside. If you've stuffed yourself silly, don't worry, as the park allows you to eat and take home (collectively) up to a gallon of berries per person per day. <br><br>While this trail is great to hike in either direction, most people access it from the River Trail out of the Jedediah Smith State Park Campground. While on the trail, expect a mixed tread covered with plenty of needles and gentle grades. <br><br>Hit this area in the late afternoon/early evening to admire plentiful sunbeams as they cascade through the trees.

Trail Stats

Photos

The bridge over the River Trail.

The bridge over the River Trail.

The confluence of Mill Creek and the Smith River is a beautiful scene.

The confluence of Mill Creek and the Smith River is a beautiful scene.

The Mill Creek Trailhead on Howland Hill Road almost hides in the forest palette of greens and browns.

The Mill Creek Trailhead on Howland Hill Road almost hides in the forest palette of greens and browns.

The foot bridge over Smith River.

The foot bridge over Smith River.

Mill Creek meanders gently into the Smith River.

Mill Creek meanders gently into the Smith River.

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