Olmstead South End Loop Trail

Thursday, November 10, 2016

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

Elevation Gain:   First half generally flat, third quarter down and up 400 feet, and last quarter on paved road.

Hike Distance:    7.0 miles.

General Location:    Starts at the Cool trailhead behind the Fire station in Cool.  Heads south generally paralleling Highway 49 on the west side, and returns along the upper canyon ridges of the American River.

Description:    The first half of the loop will generally be flat, meander south in oak and foothill pines with some open grass lands with magnificent views of the Sierras, and the snowcapped ridges to the east. The next third of the loop will follow a northerly direction, dropping down to Knickerbocker Creek crossing followed by uphill climb.  This leg will be in a forested area.  The final third of the loop will be on the paved road once serving the Auburn Dam site, and will again be in oak and grass lands. 

Travel Time / Distance:    Travel time 3/4 hour.  The driving distance is approximately 20 miles. A large parking lot is located behind the Cool fire station.  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 3:30 pm.  Detailed driving directions will be handed out to all drivers.

Hike Leader / Sweep:    Leader: Phil Huntingdale / Sweep: TBD 

Special Notes:

Facilities: Porta-potty at trail head, 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. At this time of year, and with the recent rains, the trail will encounter muddy section.  If we continue to 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.

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, layered clothing, and sun screen.

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

Meeting Time:      8:15 AM.  We Leave at 8:30 AM.