STAGECOACH TRAIL VIA NO HANDS BRIDGE
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2016
DIFFICULTY: Moderate to easy — due to one steep section (1/4 mile) and 2 miles all uphill.
ELEVATION GAIN: 800 feet
HIKE DISTANCE: Approximately 5 miles — in and out, not a loop
GENERAL LOCATION: In Auburn State Recreation Area
DESCRIPTION:
“The Stagecoach Trail was originally a toll road built in 1852 known as
Yankee Jims Turnpike and later as Old Stagecoach Road. The
original road led to a toll bridge over the North Fork American River
just upriver from Clarks Hole, and from there, to the towns of Yankee
Jims and Iowa Hill.” (both popular gold mining towns in the
1800s) — from the book American River Canyon Hikes. This is a
great hiking trail — not only due to its history but because it offers
magnificent views of the confluence of the North and Middle Forks of
the American River and the canyon area. We will start from our
parking area (see driving directions) and cross No Hands Bridge
(historically known as Mountain Quarries Railroad Bridge). Then
we will take the Mt. Quarries Bypass Trail to the confluence by going
under the Hwy. 49 Bridge. At the confluence we will use the
bathroom and from that point we will hike the Stagecoach Trail uphill
to its end at Russell Road. At that point we will have a snack
break and then retrace our steps to our cars. Bring a substantial
snack. We will be back at Lincoln for a late lunch.
TRAVEL TIME/DISTANCE:
30 minutes driving time and 15 miles one way. Return time to
Lincoln — approximately 12:30 pm. A donation of $3 is suggested
for riders. Driving directions — see below and please print
before coming to the hike, if driving.
HIKE LEADER: Sue Geisler SWEEP: TBD
SPECIAL NOTES:
FACILITIES: A non-flush bathroom is at the confluence, about 1 mile into the hike.
PREPARATION FOR HIKE:
1) If you have any health issues, please consider your condition before hiking.
2) Bring a copy of your ID (driver’s license), health card, and
an emergency contact name and phone number with you on the hike.
3) Always bring 2 pairs of shoes, along with a plastic bag to
store your muddy/dusty hiking boots after the hike.
4) Bring a substantial snack, water hiking boots, warm and
layered clothing for the cold weather. Trekking poles are
recommended but not required.
RISKS:
Ticks have been active and seen in the Auburn State Recreation Area
this winter. Suggest spraying your pant legs with a Deet product, or
other repellent. Also tuck your pants into your socks.
Avoid brushing against tall grasses — as the ticks sit on the end of
the grass blade waiting for a ride!!
RAIN CANCELS HIKE
QUESTIONS: Call Sue Geisler at 408-1010.
MEETING TIME: 8:15 AM Meet at Row 14 in the Orchard Creek Parking Lot.
LEAVING TIME: 8:30 AM
DRIVING DIRECTIONS
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