CRONAN RANCH AND MAGNOLIA RANCH 

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2022

DIFFICULTY:   Moderate.   Cronan Loop has lots of ups and downs, with only a short somewhat flat section along the river.  Cronan Loop is in the sun.  Magnolia Loop is mostly flat in the shade.

ELEVATION:   Lowest elevation:   636 feet.   Highest elevation:   1279 feet, ascent 973 feet, descent 982 feet.

HIKE DISTANCE:   Five miles (loop trail) at Cronan Ranch.   Two miles (loop trail) at Magnolia Ranch.

LOCATION:   Off Hwy. 49 between the towns of Cool and Coloma

DESCRIPTION:   This is an open terrain regional park, mostly foothill grasslands with some oak and riparian woodlands.  It has wonderful views from the ridge trail and a lovely walk along the South Fork of the American River.   There are two picnic tables near the old movie set created for the movie, “Love Comes Softly.”   We could have a snack there.   After that we will drive ten minutes down the road to Magnolia Ranch.   Either you can drive back home or follow us to Magnolia Ranch.   Gerle Loop is two miles long in the shade and pretty flat.   There is a fantastic Deli in Cool for lunch for those who want to eat out!

TRAVEL TIME:   25 miles one way and 50 minutes driving time.   Will return to Lincoln before 3 pm.

A donation of $5 is suggested for riders.  (No fees at parks.)  

HIKE LEADER:   Cathy Hoyt    SWEEP:   TBD

FACILITIES:   There is a large clean restroom at the parking lot.   There are three bathrooms along the river with flushing toilets that are very clean.

PREPARATION FOR HIKE:

1)      Bring a copy of your ID (Driver’s License), health card and an 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 muddy/dusty boots after the hike.

4)      Bring lunch, water, and hiking boots.   Trekking poles are recommended but not required.

QUESTIONS:   Call Cathy at 916-521-1154

MEETING TIME:   9 AM        LEAVING TIME:   9:15 AM

(Will carpool after deciding who wants to hike seven miles or five miles.)

DIRECTIONS:   From Orchard Lodge, take 193 to 80.   On 80, exit on Elm St. and turn right and stay in left lane.  At traffic light, go left.   At next traffic light, go left and follow signs for 49 south.   At bridge, turn right crossing over American River.   Continue to Cool going through town.   Turn right on PEDRO HILL and drive into parking lot.