Foresthill Divide East End Loop Trail

Tuesday, January 12, 2016

Difficulty:    Moderate.  Several up hills can be a good aerobic workout.

Elevation Gain:   600 feet.  First half generally down 600 feet, second half generally up 600 feet.

Hike Distance:    7.5 miles. (with a Half-hike easy option)

General Location:    Starts at the East Trailhead, on the left side of Foresthill Road, East of Auburn.

Description:    Trail generally has shade of oak and foothill pines with some open grass lands with magnificent views of the ridges beyond the north and south forks of the American River.  Since we are on the ridge, there is limited view of the rivers and Lake Clementine.  The first half is expected to be in foothill woodlands. The second half meanders in and out of foothill woodlands ecosystem, grass lands, sunny chaparral dominated by manzanita, buck brush, and chemise. If we have rain the grasslands should have some spring flowers for us to enjoy.  There will be open stretches exposed to the sun.  We will cross Foresthill Road at the mid-point and at the end.  We also travel a couple hundred yards along the shoulder of Foresthill Road at these crossings. One needs to be diligent in looking for vehicle traffic, and move swiftly across the pavement.

Travel Time / Distance:    Travel time 3/4 hour.  The driving distance is approximately 25 miles. A large parking lot is located on the left side of Foresthill Road, about 7 miles east of the Foresthill Bridge.  The lot is within the State Park system jurisdiction, and will require a $10 deposit in an envelope at the trail head and displaying of the receipt tab.  Those with State Park access pass will be appreciated.   Suggested donation to driver is $8.00; with a portion included as a contribution to the parking cost (if needed).  We expect to return to Lincoln Hills about 3:00 pm.  Detailed driving directions will be handed out to all drivers.

Hike Leader / Sweep:    Leader: Phil Huntingdale / Sweep: Stephanie Huntingdale. 

Special Notes:

Facilities: Porta-potty at trail head, at 6.5 miles into the hike, and at the end.      

Risks: Some poison oak is found along trail and you need to be careful of ticks.  A good insect repellant would help. If we have rain there could be some small creeks to cross and loose rocks along the trail. 

Lunch break: Snack or early lunch break will be at the mid-point. Second snack or lunch break will be at the 6.5 mile point.

Questions:    Call Phil (or Stephanie) 916-408-1747, or email smccoubrey@sbcglobal.net.

Preparation for Hike:

1.      Bring a copy of your ID (driver's license), Health Card, and an emergency contact name and phone number with you when you hike.

2.      If you have any health issues, please consider your condition before hiking.

3.      Always bring 2 pairs of shoes, along with a plastic bag to store your muddy/dusty hiking boots after the hike.  DO NOT get your driver's car dirty by wearing your dirty boots on the drive home.

4.      Trekking poles are advised, along with lunch, snack, water and sun screen.

Rain cancels hike.  Check website the morning of the hike for any updates.

Meeting Time:      8:45 AM.  We Leave at 9:00 AM.