Cow Mountain Recreation Management Area

This 60,000-acre area offers a variety of recreational opportunities. The northern area is set aside for non-motorized recreation, and the southern area is for off-highway vehicles. A creek and mountain ridge separate the areas, and the trail systems do not interconnect. The terrain is rugged, and elevations range from 800 to 4,000 feet. The area offers beautiful views of Ukiah and Lake County; pockets of old-growth fir; several species of oak; willows; over 31 miles of stream; 13 reservoirs; and habitat for blacktail deer, bear, wild turkey, and other upland species.

In Ukiah, take State Highway 101 south to the Talmage exit. Go east on Talmage Road about 1.5 miles. Turn right at East Side Road. Travel less than 0.5 mile to Mill Creek Road, which is on the left. Continue on Mill Creek Road 3 miles to turnoff for the North Cow Mountain Area, and 5 miles for entrance to South Cow Mountain.