Modoc War Sites & Audio Tour

Siskiyou is steeped in history wherever you go, but perhaps no archeological footprint is as extensive as the Modoc War sites in eastern Siskiyou.  Fought over a 6 months, the Modoc War was a series of skirmishes that saw 55 Modoc warriors hold off perhaps as many as 1000 Army soldiers without losing a battle. It was the only major Indian war fought in California – and the only one in which an Army general was killed.    And although little is mentioned about the war today (and generally overshadowed by General Custer and the Battle for Little Bighorn that happened a year later), it dominated national headlines for an entire year. It was one of the costliest wars in United States history in terms of lives lost and dollars spent per enemy combatant and the events that happened between November 29th, 1872 and June 1, 1873 profoundly affected the destiny of the Modoc People and eastern Siskiyou.

But now you can spend a day in east Siskiyou and southern Oregon learning about the war, and the events leading up to it. Discover Siskiyou (in collaboration with Discover Klamath, Travel Oregon, Travel Southern Oregon and Rural Klamath Connects) has recently released a free GPS-enabled immersive audio tour about the Modoc War that allows listeners to drive the path of the war and visit sites where the action took place along the way, beginning in Klamath Falls, Oregon and ending in the Lava Beds National Monument in Siskiyou.  To complete the tour visitors must first download the VoiceMapTM mobile app (compatible with both Android and iOS), search for The Modoc War: A Homeland Lost, download the tour route to mobile device, then follow step by step instructions in the app. 

Along the way, you’ll get to visit several highlights of the Lava Beds National Monument including Captain Jack’s Stronghold, Petroglyph Point and Hospital Rock.  The entire tour is narrated by Cheewa James, author of MODOC: The Tribe That Wouldn’t Die and the great- granddaughter of the Modoc warrior Shkeitko (better known as “Shacknasty Jim”), who was one of the 55 warriors that fought in the stronghold. Cheewa’s firsthand familial knowledge and imaginative voice bring the events and landscapes to life in a way you’ve never heard the story before.

Go explore and make a day or weekend of it! For lots more to see and do in east Siskiyou including birding, caving and cycling, search here. And, for great places to stay while you’re in east Siskiyou, check out lodging options in Dorris and Tulelake here.

#DISCOVERSISKIYOU

🌾 Siskiyou's Scott Valley unfolds like a patchwork quilt of golden fields, winding rivers, and quiet mountain charm. Nestled between the Marble and Trinity Mountains, it’s one of Siskiyou’s best-kept secrets—peaceful, picturesque, and full of small-town heart. 💛

Whether you're flying high or driving slow, this picturesque valley is worth the detour.

📸: @beanemedia 

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✨ The stars shine brighter in Siskiyou.

With low light pollution and wide-open skies, our region offers some of the best stargazing in California. Bring a blanket, look up, and lose yourself in the magic of the cosmos. 🌠

📸: @rockmaven56

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Labor Day Weekend = one last summer adventure. ☀️⛰️ From lakes to trails, Siskiyou’s the place to savor every mom#peaceofmind 

📸: @etch_in_love 

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Still soaking up summer? Us too. 😎 But trust us—fall in Siskiyou is worth planning ahead for. Golden trails, cozy nights, and mountain views are waiting. Link in bio for our top five spots to find fall color in Siskiyou 🏔️🍁 

📸: @kiwibandit 

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Trail to the sky. ⛰️✨ Hiking Castle Crags State Park means big views, fresh air, and feeling on top of the world. 

📸: @morgan_swartz

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🌿 Tucked just off the highway in Dunsmuir lies a little slice of magic — Hedge Creek Falls! This easy walk leads to a waterfall you can literally walk behind, with mist on your face and views of Mt. Shasta peeking through the trees. A perfect quick stop that feels like a secret. 💦✨

📸: @backroadsculture 

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Happy Fourth of July! 🎆

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, hiking under the stars, kayaking on crystal-clear lakes, or enjoying a local festival—Siskiyou is the perfect place to make holiday memories.

🎇 Please remember to recreate responsibly - do not light your own fireworks, and pack out all of your trash! Tag us in your weekend fun using #DiscoverSiskiyou and stay safe out there! 🗻🌲💥

📸: @livelikeitsthewknd

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Chasing light, finding peace. 🌄✨

Mt. Shasta glowing in the golden hour—nature really showing off.

📸: @happylustig 

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We dare you to drive over Forest Mountain into Scott Valley without stopping to snap a photo 🌲🏔️✨ 

📸: @tcoelhophotography 

#discoversiskiyou #seeiskiyou #scottvalley #mountainviews #pnw #roadtrip
Siskiyou has some of the darkest skies on the West Coast, making it the ultimate location for stargazing ✨🪐 🌙 Check out our suggestions for the best spots around to view the cosmos at the link in our bio!

📸: @roadtripreadymedia 

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Sunday's full "snow moon" casting its silver glow over the Siskiyou mountains—nature's masterpiece in the sky. 🌕 

📸: @optimal_focus

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Snow is coming! Be ready for it - purchase your @mtshastanordic  season pass today! Get yours online at mtshastanordic.org

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