Ruck-A-Chucky Trail

Thursday, February 11, 2010

DIFFICULTY: Moderate to Strenuous (strenuous because the initial 1.8 mile hike down to the river requires hiking up at the end of the hike --- and it is fairly steep in parts).

ELEVATION GAIN: Starting elevation - 1800 feet.  Lowest elevation -740 feet.

HIKE DISTANCE: Approximately 9 miles  (in and out; not a loop)

GENERAL LOCATION: Along the Middle Fork of the American River in the Auburn State Recreation Area

DESCRIPTION: This hike GUARANTEES spectacular views of the Middle Fork of the American River!!  You will be in awe over the scenery --- and the winter is the best time to hike this area --- no people and so quiet (except for the sound of the river!).  After the initial climb of 1.8 miles to the river, the trail (an unimproved road most of the way and then the WST trail for 2 miles); follows the course of the river, heading upstream.   This area, the Ruck-a-Chucky campground and nearby points, serve as whitewater access places for water enthusiasts (kayak or canoe).   You will see the famous Class IV Chunder area and Class VI Ruck-a-Chucky area.    Come and experience the river at its finest --- and you won't get wet at all!!

Update:  As of Jan. 23rd, the first stream crossing near the Ruck-a-Chucky campground is too dangerous to cross (water flow too deep and swift). If the same conditions exist on the hike day (Feb. 11th), we will hike an offshoot trail, part of the Pioneer Trail (a one track trail, mostly level, with some steep dropoffs). Note: We will still be hiking down (1.7 miles), almost to the river's edge, and on the return, it will be a steady, sometimes steep hike, up to our cars. Total mileage will be approximately 8 miles.

TRAVEL TIME/DISTANCE: Distance --- approximately 25 miles.  Suggested donation for riders is $3.  Return time to Lincoln Hills --- approximately 3:30 pm.  Detailed driving instructions will be handed out to all drivers.  Parking fees are now required at the trailhead - $10 per car.  A CA State Park pass is acceptable for parking.

HIKE LEADER/SWEEP: Sue Geisler/Monique Wood & Penny Williams

SPECIAL NOTES:

FACILITIES AVAILABLE: No bathroom at trailhead, but there is a nonflush bathroom after hiking 2 miles.
PREPARATION FOR HIKE: Refer to Standard Hiking Equipment Guidelines for Hiking in the "Hike  Information and Guidelines" on the website.  Trekking poles advised as there are two creek crossings  ----  and poles are most helpful to avoid getting boots wet.   Bring lunch and adequate water, even if cold weather.  Wear layered clothing --- weather can be cold, but hiking out of the canyon, one can get overheated.

RISKS: The trail is an unimproved dirt, rocky road most of the way (with only a little mud) and then the trail becomes a one track dirt trail.  Poison oak not seen.  Two creek crossings.

QUESTIONS: Call Sue Geisler at 408-1010

RAIN ON THE DAY OF THE HIKE CANCELS THE HIKE