High Rock Canyon Wilderness (46,465 acres) remains largely unaltered from the days when John C. Fremont first mapped the canyon and subsequent emigrant wagon trains followed the route through High Rock Canyon on the Applegate-Lassen Trail. During the peak year of 1849 more than 10,000 wagons passed through the canyon. Outstanding scenic vistas occur from a multitude of locations within the area. Turning away from the canyon rims, the view becomes a 360 degree panorama of valleys, terraces and mountain ranges up to sixty mils away. The many cliffs and rock formation supports a wide range of wildlife habitats including a nesting raptor population of golden eagles, prairie falcons, hawks and owls. The canyon floors and walls are home to excellent populations of quail and chukar. Shaded canyons support a small yearlong mule deer population which swells with winter migrants. The sparsely sage brushed covered buttes and uplands are home to pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep and wild horses.

Please follow the regulations and practice Leave No Trace / TreadLightly! principles when visiting to protect the unique natural and experiential qualities of this special area.

Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport are prohibited. This includes the use of motor vehicles (including OHVs), motorized equipment, bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of aircraft including helicopters. Contact the agency for more information about regulations.