Highgrade National Recreation Trail is 5.5 miles long. Elevations range from 7,100 to 7,800 ft in this high elevation forest setting.

The Modoc National Forest segment of the Back Country Discovery Trails is about 200 miles long with another 42 miles of alternate (more challenging) trails. Most of the Modoc Back Country Discovery Trails system is single lane and unpaved.

Twenty-two (22) Discovery Points will be designated along the route. When completed each will have an interpretative sign and other information to assist the traveler in enjoying the California Back Country. The Highgrade NRT, Discovery Point 5, is located at milepost 23.5.

The trail is open to hikers, horses, bikers, ATVs and four-wheelers. The trail is approximately 5.5 miles long with elevation varying from 7,100 to 7,800 feet. The trail gradient is mostly gentle with maximum pitches less than 10 percent. Much of the High Grade trail follows four wheel drive dirt roads with only a 1.5 section of trail tread at the south trailhead.