Lake Clementine Trail

September 4, 2014

DIFFICULTY: Easy

ELEVATION GAIN: Approximately 400’

HIKE DISTANCE: Approximately 4.4 miles out & back.

GENERAL LOCATION: Auburn State Recreation Area. Trail head is on the Old Forest Hill Road just past the confluence of the North & Middle Forks of the American River.

DESCRIPTION:   This will be a leisurely hike up the east side of the north fork, American River.  The trail varies from smooth soil, to narrow/rocky stretches with some paved road.  At ½ mile, we will pass under the Foresthill Bridge, the highest bridge in California and third tallest in the US.  It was originally built to provide a road to Foresthill after the Auburn Dam was built and flooded the area.  At ¾ of a mile, Clark’s Hole will be on the left.  It is a slow moving, deep pool which has been a popular swimming hole for over 100 years.  The water is generally warm because it comes over the dam in normal times.  We will lunch near the dam.

TRAVEL TIME/DISTANCE:  Travel time is about 30 minutes to cover the 18 miles.  Suggested donation to the driver is $5, which includes  a contribution for the $10 parking fee.  State park parking passes can be used.

HIKE LEADER/SWEEP:  Vern Luke/Seeking Volunteers

SPECIAL NOTES:

FACILITIES AVAILABLE: Pit toilets at the trailhead and at the dam parking lot.

RISKS: Some of our trail will be rocky with significant drop-offs.  Watch for bikers.

PREPARATION OF THE HIKE:

1)    Bring a copy of your ID (driver’s license), health card, and 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 two pairs of shoes along with a plastic bag to store your hiking boots after the hike.   
4)    Bring lunch or a snack and water.  Trekking poles are always recommended.

QUESTIONS: Call Vern at 253-3711

 Rain the day before or on hike day will cancel hike

MEETING TIME:  8:15 AM at Orchard Creek Mail Box.  We leave at 8:30 AM

DRIVING DIRECTIONS