Cold Creek

Cold Creek Road is a remote yet relatively easy backcountry drive through the northern Warner Mountains of Modoc National Forest, east of Davis Creek and US 395. The route winds through open sagebrush and juniper country before climbing into scattered stands of pine, offering a quiet journey through one of northeastern California’s less-traveled landscapes.

Along the way, Lassen Creek Campground provides inviting campsites beside the creek. Less than a mile away are the Rainbow Obsidian Mine and surrounding collection areas, known for their colorful volcanic glass. Farther into the mountains, Sugar Hill Lookout rewards visitors with sweeping views of Goose Lake, the Warner Mountains, and the expansive Modoc countryside.

Access generally begins from US 395 via County Road 47 and County/Forest Road 30. Cold Creek Road also connects with the network of forest roads serving the Davis Creek obsidian-collection area.

The road is a narrow, one-lane road with a dirt-and-gravel surface and occasional washboarding, dust, rocks, and shallow ruts. It is usually manageable in dry conditions, although a higher-clearance vehicle provides added confidence. Because the road receives no winter maintenance, snow, mud, and spring runoff can make it difficult or impassable during wetter parts of the year.