Bizz Johnson Trail

The trail is particularly vibrant in the fall when the riverbanks burst with color, making it a popular destination for autumn foliage. It's also recognized for its remarkable autumn colors by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy. Spring and early summer offer pleasant temperatures and lush scenery before the peak heat.

The Bizz Johnson Trail is a rail-trail, meaning it follows an old railroad line. This results in a gentle grade, with a maximum of 3% and an average of 0.8%. The surface is primarily packed gravel and dirt, making it suitable for various users. The eastern seven miles are particularly popular and feature a compacted, wheelchair-accessible surface. The scenery transitions from semi-arid canyon to upland forests of pine and fir.

While komoot rates the full 51.8 km (25.4-mile) route as 'difficult' due to its length, the trail is generally considered 'easy' in physical rating due to its gentle grade. The eastern seven miles, which are compacted and wheelchair-accessible, are particularly family-friendly. The trail's gradual incline and decline make it accessible for many, especially if you plan shorter sections or an eastward journey from Westwood to Susanville for a pleasant downhill experience.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Bizz Johnson Trail. However, it's always best to keep them on a leash and practice Leave No Trace principles by cleaning up after your pet to ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users and to protect local wildlife.

The trail connects the historic logging towns of Susanville and Westwood. Key access points include the Susanville Railroad Depot. There are no services between Susanville and Westwood, so plan your parking and access points accordingly. Primitive camping is allowed throughout the trail if you plan an overnight trip.

The trail offers numerous scenic spots. You'll cross the Susan River 12 times on bridges and trestles and pass through two tunnels (one 800 feet and another 450 feet long). Highlights include the View of Bizz Johnson Trail at Twins Bridge, the East Tunnel Bridge, and the Devil's Corral Trestle Bridge. You can also enjoy views of the Susan River near Westwood Junction and a Meadow along Bizz Johnson trail.

As the trail closely follows the Susan River for the first 16 miles, you have opportunities to spot various wildlife. Common sightings include raccoons, beavers, and muskrats. The area is also a haven for birdwatchers, with over 100 bird species documented.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Bizz Johnson Trail itself. While the trail is in the vicinity of Lassen National Forest, direct access to the trail does not typically incur forest entrance fees. However, always check the latest regulations from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) at blm.gov for any updates, especially if you plan to camp or engage in other activities within the broader forest area.

There are no services, such as water, restrooms, or food, available between Susanville and Westwood. Hikers should plan accordingly by carrying sufficient water, snacks, and any other necessary supplies for the entire duration of their trip. Primitive camping is allowed throughout the trail for those planning multi-day excursions.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Bizz Johnson Trail, Bizz Johnson Trail, Bizz Johnson Trail, Bizz Johnson Trail, and Bizz Johnson Trail. Additionally, a parallel, more technical Singletrack Southside Trail traces the south bank of the river, offering an alternative for those seeking a different experience.

The full 51.8 km (25.4-mile) length of the Bizz Johnson Trail can take approximately 13.6 hours to hike, depending on your pace and stops. Many visitors choose to hike shorter sections or plan an overnight trip, as primitive camping is allowed along the trail.