Sugar Pine Reservoir Hike

October 7, 2014

DIFFICULTY: Easy

ELEVATION GAIN: Beginning elevation 3500 ft, highest elevation 3620 ft,   Couple slight climbs during the hike.

 HIKE DISTANCE: Approx 4.6 mile loop around Sugar Pine Reservoir.

 GENERAL LOCATION: Sugar Pine Reservoir is located off Foresthill Road, northeast of the City of Auburn.  The campgrounds will be closed for the season but hiking, boating, picnicking and fishing is permitted.

 DESCRIPTION:  This will be a leisurely 2+ hour hike in a pleasant and relaxing setting including a 30 minute snack/lunch break. Even the drive to the reservoir is enjoyable. The area is in rolling pine forest.  The hiking trail follows the lakeshore so there are views of the water. Much of the hike is shaded, but at this elevation it can be cool in the morning and warm later in the day.   Be sure to wear clothing in layers.  Just prior to the midpoint we will reach a picnic area for a 30 minute lunch/snack break. The trail varies from forested pathway with the middle section paved and a few small, well built bridges.

 TRAVEL TIME/DISTANCE: Travel time about 1 ¼ hours.  The distance is 47 miles.

 Suggested donation to the driver is $10 which includes a $5 day use fee per car. We expect to return to Lincoln Hills by 2:00 PM.

 HIKE LEADER/SWEEP: Vern Luke/Volunteers Solicited

 FACILITIES AVAILABLE: Vault toilets at the trailhead in the parking area.

 PREPARATION FOR HIKE: Refer to Standard Hiking Equipment Guidelines for Hiking in the “Hiking Club Guidelines and Forms” on the website.  If you are new to the hiking group, go to the web site (http://lincolnhillshikers.org), download and print the SCLH Waiver Form found in the Rules Section.  Read, sign the form and bring it to the hike with you.

 1) If you have any health issues, 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 suitable bag to store your muddy/dusty hiking boots after the hike.
4) Bring lunch or a snack and water. Trekking poles are not absolutely necessary but will be useful for balance and minor climbs.
5) Please remember to stay behind the hike leader and ahead of the sweep during the hike.

 RISKS: One climb up the rocks near the dam early in the hike.  A tripping hazard will be pointed out and a few rocks are on the trail.   A very few drop-offs require caution.  Overall, the trail is quite safe although this is a hike not a walk.

QUESTIONS: Call Vern with questions at 253.3711

 Rain or snow 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