Helipad Trail

The Helipad Trail is a short but steep hike within Susanville Ranch Park that offers a stunning view.

Begin by parking at the large lot off Meadow View Drive. From the trailhead you’ll follow the trail that leads south and the connects with a gravel road. Turn right on this gravel road (the Old Paul Bunyan Road) and follow it for a short distance.

You’ll cross Piute Creek then turn left onto singletrack. The climbing then begins. It’s a steady uphill but the grade isn’t too bad thanks to several switchbacks.

The switchbacks soon end and the grade lets up as the trail turns to a wider tread, following an old road.

Keep an eye out for the Helipad to the right. This area was indeed once used as a helicopter landing pad. Today visitors can enjoy the stunning views from here.

Officially the trail continues on, but there isn’t much to see past the Helipad.

Once you’ve enjoyed the views, turn around and return the way you came back to the trailhead.