MONROE RIDGE TRAIL - COLOMA

Tuesday, April 29, 2014

DIFFICULTY: Relatively Easy

ELEVATION GAIN: Switchbacks at beginning of hike climb a few hundred feet.

HIKE DISTANCE: 3.6 mile loop

GENERAL LOCATION: Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park on Highway 49 in Coloma.

DESCRIPTION:   We will hike on the Monroe Ridge Trail and visit the James Marshall Monument.  Before the hike, we will visit the sawmill and the place where James Marshall discovered gold in 1848.  Then we hop a low split rail fence and proceed across Highway 49 to the trail.  After the hike, we have lunch on the picnic tables in town.  This will end the hike but time will allow for visiting the Gold Discovery Museum (entrance included with the parking fee/park pass) and outdoor exhibits like Miners Cabin, Man Lee Mining exhibit and Wah Hop Store.  Coordinate with your driver on specific return times or keep him/her in sight.

TRAVEL TIME/DISTANCE: Approximately 33 miles one way. A $6 contribution to the driver is requested.  Please have correct change if you plan on riding.  There is an $8 parking fee per auto unless you have a CA State Park Foundation pass for each car.  I should have sufficient passes and park envelopes.

HIKE LEADER / SWEEP: Vern Luke / Volunteers Accepted

FACILITIES AVAILABLE: Public facilities available at the Museum and parking lots.

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.  DO NOT get your driver’s car dirty by wearing your dirty boots on the drive home.

             4.  Bring lunch, water, layered clothing suitable for the weather and trekking pole (s) are always recommended.

 QUESTIONS: Call Vern Luke, 253.3711

 MEETING TIME: 8:45AM – leave at 9:00 AM.  We will plan on returning to Lincoln Hills by 3 PM depending on time spend visiting the exhibits.

RAIN CANCELS HIKE

DRIVING DIRECTIONS