FORESTHILL DIVIDE SHORT LOOP
THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 2012
DIFFICULTY:
Moderately Easy. There are no difficult elevation changes and the hike is
relatively short.
ELEVATION GAIN: Starting elevation and ending elevation
1600 feet. Elevations range from 1600 feet to 1900 feet.
HIKE DISTANCE:
5 miles, a loop hike, including a side trip to the American River
overlook.
GENERAL LOCATION: Starts at the West Trailhead on the right
side of Foresthill Road 3.5 miles past the Foresthill Bridge.
DESCRIPTION: This well
maintained loop trail in the Auburn State Recreation Area straddles the
Foresthill Divide, the ridge between the North Fork and the Middle Fork of the
American River. The highlight of this hike is its diversity. The trail passes
through four ecosystems: yellow pine forest, foothill woodland, riparian
woodland, and chaparral. It also traverses through open grasslands with lovely
spring wildflowers. Mountain bikes are rare on weekday mornings. Spring turkey
hunting season ends May 20.
- HIKE ROUTE: From the West parking area on the South
side of Foresthill Road, hike 0.5 miles to the Drivers Flat marker. Turn left
and cross Foresthill Road. Hike 1.5 miles on the North side trail to Upper Lake
Clementine Road. Turn right and cross to the South side trail. Hike 0.5 miles to
the overlook trail and 0.5 miles to the overlook. Return to the main trail and
hike 0.5 miles back to the parking area.
- MORE INFO: Google Auburn SRA
Trails and download the Foresthill Divide trail guide developed by the Canyon
Keepers.
- LUNCH: Early lunch or snack at a panoramic overlook of the
Middle Fork of the American River area.
TRAVEL TIME/DISTANCE:
Approximately 35 minute drive and 22 miles. Return time to Lincoln about noon. A
donation of $4 is suggested for riders. Detailed driving directions will be
handed out to all drivers.
HIKE LEADER/SWEEP: Leader Dan Cortinovis.
Sweep Wilma Cortinovis
FACILITIES: One porta-potty at the
trailhead.
PREPARATION FOR HIKE: Sturdy boots are required and trekking
poles are recommended, but not required. There are no major stream crossings.
Bring lunch or snack and plenty of water in case of warm weather.
- IF YOU
HAVE ANY HEALTH ISSUES, PLEASE CONSIDER YOUR CONDITION BEFORE PREPARATION FOR
HIKING.
- BRING THE FOLLOWING: Bring a copy of your ID (driver's license),
health card, and an emergency contact name and phone number with you on the
hike.
- ABOUT YOUR FOOTWEAR: Always bring two pairs of shoes, along with a
plastic bag to store your muddy/dusty hiking boots after the hike. Do not get
your driver's car dirty by wearing your dirty boots on the drive
home.
RISKS: Poison oak is prevalent, but can be avoided by being alert.
RAIN CANCELS HIKE.
QUESTIONS: Call Dan Cortinovis at
925-262-7345
MEETING TIME: 7:30 AM - LEAVING TIME: 7:45 AM
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