SPAULDING LAKE VIA PIONEER TRAIL
TUESDAY, JUNE 4, 2024

DIFFICULTY:  Moderate/Strenuous. There is a significant elevation gain and short parts of the trail are steep and/or have loose rocks and roots and steep drop-offs. There are some big steps and a pipe that is about 4 feet above the ground that you must duck under. The hike is mostly shaded, except at the upper end.  There are several active water-crossings where you will need to step/jump over 2-4 rocks to cross.  Hiking poles are very useful.

ELEVATION GAIN:  Appx. 1070 feet total ascent. Starting elevation 4500 feet. Highest elevation 5200 feet. 

HIKE DISTANCE:  Appx 6 miles total, up and back down, not a loop hike.

DESCRIPTION: Start on the Pioneer Trail at Langs Crossing of the South Yuba River on Bowman Lake Road and ascend 700 feet in 2.2 miles.

The trail passes waterfalls, raging rivers, wildflowers and pretty streams on the way to some large rocks overlooking the lake.  We will stop on the rocks for lunch with a lovely view of the lake with the snow capped mountains in the distance.

We will make frequent stops for photos during the hike.

LUNCH: Early lunch or snack at an overlook of Spaulding Lake.

TRAVEL TIME/DISTANCE:  Approximately 75 minute drive and 60 miles. Return time to Lincoln mid afternoon. A donation of $10 is suggested for riders.  If you plan to drive, please print the driving directions

HIKE LEADER/SWEEP:  Debbie Knowles, Sweep Lisa Mariotti

FACILITIES:  Two pit toilets at Sierra Discovery Trail parking lot, one mile before reaching Pioneer Trail trailhead at the South Yuba River.  Additional pit toilets at the trailhead.

PREPARATION FOR HIKE:  Sturdy boots are required and trekking poles are highly
recommended - for the stream crossings.  Bring bug repellant, there are insects in the morning. Bring lunch or snack and plenty of water in case of warm weather.  It may be cool in the morning, so bring layers.

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:  Mosquitos are common so bring insect repellant.

RAIN CANCELS HIKE

QUESTIONS:  Call Debbie at 916-220-1402

MEETING TIME:  7:45 AM - LEAVING TIME:  8:00AM