Stevens Trail Hike

Thursday, March 26, 2009


DIFFICULTY: Moderate to Strenuous

 

ELEVATION GAIN: Beginning elevation 2300 ft, lowest elevation 1200 ft (total gain 1100 ft)

HIKE DISTANCE: 9 miles round trip

GENERAL LOCATION: Colfax – off I-80 east of Auburn

DESCRIPTION: The Stevens Trail is one of the greatest hikes in our area – it is 9 miles with over 1100 feet net elevation gain with the downward portion of the hike at the beginning. While the descent and assent is gradual there are some steep sections -going down and on the return journey with a number of high “step-ups of step-downs”. Part of the trail (maybe 3 miles) is cut into the steep sides of the river canyon and there is a precipitous drop-off on one side - so this hike is not good for a person with vertigo problems. Most of the trail is single track trail with superb views of the North Fork of the American River. Reports are, we will be treated with beautiful wildflower displays.  We will pass a charming waterfall.  We will eat our bag lunch at the river’s edge. 

TRAVEL TIME/DISTANCE: Travel time about ½ to ¾ hours. The distance is 25 miles.  (Suggested donation to driver $4).  We expect to return to Lincoln Hills about 3:30 PM. 

HIKE LEADER/SWEEP: David Wood/sweep TBA

SPECIAL NOTES:

FACILITIES AVAILABLE: No bathrooms at the trailhead. We will stop at a McDonald’s at the exit from I-80
PREPARATION FOR HIKE: Refer to Standard Hiking Equipment Guidelines for Hiking in the “Hike information and Guidelines” on the website.  For this hike, trekking poles are strongly advised.  There are precepitous areas where poles are indespensible.

RISKS: Some poison oak has been noted as well as some flies. Bring insect repellent with high content of DEET. (available at Longs Drugstore)
QUESTIONS: Call Monique at 408-7562

 

Rain day before or on hike day will cancel hike due to steep narrow trail

 

MEETING TIME: 8:00 AM.  We leave at 8:15 AM