Gasquet Cemetery Trail, California

Smith River National Recreation Area

Gasquet Cemetery Trail, Smith River National Recreation Area, California This is the resting place of Madame Gasquet, the wife of Horace Gasquet who together were the founders of the community of Gasquet. The small cemetery is located near the site of their supply station that was situated next to the 1852 Cold Springs Mountain Pack Trail. The Gasquet's later established a supply station on the other side of the river, the present location of Gasquet, to serve the needs of miners working their claims on French Hill.

Directions
From Crescent City, drive north on Highway 101 and turn on Highway 199. Follow Highway 199 for about 13 miles to the Gasquet Store and Post Office on the left. Turn left on Middle Fork Gasquet Road (located next to the store) and drive one block to the stop sign. Turn right look for a place to park on the shoulder of the road immediately after crossing the bridge. The trail begins a short distance down the road on the left.

Trail Description
Gasquet Resort as it appeard from the approximate location of Madame Gasquet's grave. Gasquet Cemetery, California The route to the cemetery follows informal but well traveled trails used by local residents. As you walk down the access road, you may see 2-3 trails going up hill to the right. The first and second of these merge into the same trail and take you to a 4x4 road coming down from the right and ending where the trail enters. If you go to the left you can find the trail continuing up hill following the North Fork of the Smith River. A short distance after the trail goes under the power lines, watch on the right for a narrow trail going about 200 feet up to the cemetery.

The historic photo was taken from the vicinity of the Gasquet Cemetery and shows Gasquet Resort as it may have appeared in the early 1900s. In the foreground is a vineyard where the Gasquets grew grapes for making wine that they served to their guests.

________________________________________________________________________________

Disclaimer: All information in Highway199.org is accurate to the best knowledge of the author. However, conditions in outdoor settings can change dramatically after storms or fires. For this reason, travelers are advised to check current road conditions before traveling through the area, drive responsibly and take measures to understand safety issues in the region. When participating in outdoor activities, always plan and prepare for safe hiking, swimming or any other activities mentioned in the Highway 199 website. More on disclaimer and copyright...