Trinity River is in northwest California, traveling between I-5 and US 101. Eastern access is near Redding and its western near Arcata. The byway is approximately 140 miles long and follows CA 299. The road is a two-lane paved road suitable for all types of vehicles. It is usually passable year-round but winter driving conditions can be hazardous.
The Trinity River scenic byway crosses Shasta-Trinity National Forests with a small portion running through Six Rivers National Forest. Trinity River meanders alongside much of the byway and attracts anglers in search of salmon or trout. Anglers are also attracted to the Trinity Alps Wilderness, which boasts more than 60 alpine lakes. It is California’s largest wilderness area and is also used by hikers, equestrians, and backpackers.
Whiskeytown Lake is next to the byway near the eastern terminus. It is part of the Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area, which is managed by the National Park Service. Lake fishing is good either from the shore or from a boat. Rainbow and brown trout, kokanee salmon, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and spotted bass inhabit the lake. The recreation area also has developed camping facilities for RVers and tent campers. Several national forest campgrounds are also along or near the byway.