Backpack Mt. Eddy and Alpine Lakes in Shasta/Trinity National Forest

Climb high in your car to Parks Creek Trailhead before starting on the PCT towards Deadfalls Lakes.  Smooth, mild single track terrain allows for quick moving and an enjoyable start to the trip.  In ~3.5 miles you'll reach a trail junction between the PCT and 'Mt. Eddy Trail'.  Here is where you can explore a few more lakes while climbing ~500ft over 1.5 miles to get to the base of Mt. Eddy.  This makes an incredible camping location as dispersed camping is allowed in the forest.  Ascend another 1000 feet over ~2 miles to reach the peak of Mt. Eddy which is the highest peak in the area aside from Mt. Shasta, in a relatively easy ascent.  

From here, continue on the Sisson-Callahan trail (~4 miles) for access to Toad and Porcupine Lakes which are absolutely worth the extra day or two.  Otherwise, backtrack to the PCT and follow signs for Toad Lake (~6 miles).  Once wrapping around the entire lake, there will be a trail to reach the water.  Continue another .5 miles on the PCT in order to reach Porcupine Lake which will extend .2 miles off of the PCT.  Porcupine Lake is a beautifully majestic, classic alpine lake offering incredible swimming, fishing and solitude.  

To return to Parks Creek Trailhead, backtrack the PCT or if taken Sisson-Callahan, follow the PCT back towards Deadfall Lake.