Marble Mountain Wilderness

Marble Mountain Wilderness is a protected nature reserve in the Klamath National Forest covering about 241,000 acres of varied terrain. The area features granite ridges, deep canyons, roughly 89 lakes, and two Wild and Scenic river systems flowing through diverse landscapes.

The area was first protected as a Primitive Area in 1931, then officially designated as wilderness under the 1964 Wilderness Act. This recognition safeguarded the region from development and gave it permanent protected status.

The region features numerous caves with stalactites and flowstone formations, including Bigfoot Cave, which ranks among the deepest in the continental United States.

This area is best explored on foot through backpacking or day hiking, with fishing available in the lakes and streams. The Pacific Crest Trail passes through the region and provides access to most parts of the wilderness.

The mountain peaks display a striking marbled appearance created by the meeting of light limestone and dark metamorphic rock. This distinctive pattern comes from five different rock types found throughout the region.

Location: California

Operator: United States Forest Service

GPS coordinates: 41.49013,-123.22505

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:58