Originally, Foresthill’s main thoroughfare was one huge Main Street over 200 feet wide. Today, it is two parallel streets planted with colorful hardwoods between. Legend claims early settlers were convinced the natural riches of the Divide would establish Foresthill’s prominence above competing towns such as that other upstart San Francisco.
It is the last outpost before climbing up the ridge and into the wild canyons of the North and Middle Forks of the American River.
Foresthill is a major pit stop and a strong community supporter of the Western States Trail (WST) race...
They thought it only proper that Foresthill’s main street be wider than San Francisco’s Market Street. Today locals are glad the City on the Bay won the race for growth.
Forest House, a rustic hotel, was first established in 1857. After destructive fires, the present hotel is fourth generation after rebuilding each time – but the quaint hotel is still kicking up its heels. The small town offers most modern amenities travelers seek, including some extra-fine-dining.
The community bills itself as the “Gateway to the Golden Sierra,” giving reference to the historic mining activities that occurred on the ridges and canyons lying between it and the Sierra Crest as well as today’s outdoor recreation opportunities. It is the last outpost before climbing up the ridge and into the wild canyons of the North and Middle Forks of the American River.
Whitewater enthusiasts and anglers both enjoy the upper reaches of both canyons. The North Fork is a Congressionally designated Wild River. Sugar Pine and French Meadows Reservoirs are most readily accessed via the mountain roads above the community. The northernmost occurrence of Giant Sequoia lie in a small grove just north of the “End of the World” high above the Middle Fork of the American River. Grouse Falls is a short distance away and can be combined in a day’s outing that is perfect for youngsters. Robinson Flat Campground is a great base for the Baldy Mountain Loop Trail that offers an easy side trip to Duncan Lookout fire tower. Visitors are welcome during the summer operating season.
Foresthill is a major pit stop and a strong community supporter of the Western States Trail (WST) race for both runners and Tevis Cup equestrian riders. For the runners, Foresthill is the last bit of civilization most participants running a 24 hours pace see before plunging into the canyon of the Middle Fork of the American River. And at about that point into their race – darkness. Next stop is Auburn, a long 40 miles away. Day trips on segments of the WST both above and below Foresthill are more appealing to most of us. The historic and nationally designated segment above Foresthill from Michigan Bluff to the mining town sites of Deadwood and Last Chance is challenging but a unique opportunity to hike trails that have scarcely changed since the 1850s.
| Population: | 1,791 | Links: | Chamber of Commerce: foothill.net/foresthill/chamber Community: www.welcomvillage.com/foresthill |
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From I-80 exit at the Foresthill Road junction and follow it south until you’ve quickly crossed Lincoln Way that parallels I-80. From there it is 17 miles east via the Foresthill Road, a paved Forest Highway.