Bryan Meadows Trail
3.0 miles, moderate, elevations: 7,300’-8540’, no motorized vehicles, mountain bikes permitted but they are not allowed to continue beyond the east end of the trail after it joins the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) along the Sierra Crest. The Bryan Meadows Trail begins after traveling south up the Sayles Canyon Trail for 1.0 mile.
...large, grassy meadow is radiant with wildflowers in the spring...
The best option does a loop by using the PCT to connect with the Sayles Canyon Trail.
DESCRIPTION:
Bryan Meadows is a lovely high-country meadow carved out of forest lands along both sides of small creek with headwaters topping out at the Sierra Crest and the PCT. The large, grassy meadow is radiant with wildflowers in the spring—which at that elevation is normally in late May and into June. In the fall, the crisp brown muted colors of dried grasses attractively contrast with the rich green forest rimming the meadow. Several hardwoods and colorful shrubs make the trail a very pleasant late season outing. The trail skirts along the meadow.
After leaving the Sayles Canyon Trail, the Bryan Meadows connection climbs steadily through mature forests of pine and firs. After crossing the creek, the trail follows it below ski runs and lifts on the back side of the Sierra-at-Tahoe Ski Resort. The visual disruption of the natural setting along the trail is minor.
The Sayles Canyon Trailhead has been a camping spot for both equestrian riders and hikers. Although there are no developments, the fairly level area offers a huge fire ring plus several, smaller nearby sites. Water is available from Sayles Creek. Parking is suitable for several vehicles and horse trailers.
Trailheads on each end of this one trail begin and end at connecting trails which permits several options. The PCT can be followed either north back to Highway 50 and Echo Summit or south to Highway 88 and Carson Pass. Several side options branch off this main system throughway.
The best option does a loop by using the PCT to connect with the Sayles Canyon Trail. In fact, Sayles Canyon is my favorite link. The loop which begins at the Sayles Creek Trailhead totals about 9 miles, and even with the climb to the Sierra Crest, it still ranks as moderately difficult and a great outing for experienced hikers or equestrian riders. Mountain bikers can not use the PCT connecting link; so riders can only deadhead on either the Bryan Meadows or Sayles Canyon Trails.
DIRECTIONS:
To Bryan Meadows Trail
From Highway 50 turn (south) onto the Sierra-At-Tahoe Road (approximately 48 miles east of Placerville) and continue for 1.5 miles along the paved road. Then veer right onto gravel-surfaced Bryan Road (17E13) just before reaching the gate and entrance to the ski area. This road intersection is not signed, but a green, metal gate marks its beginning. Follow the gravel road though several cleared ski runs. The road deteriorates slightly as it rounds the ridge above Sayles Creek. The road ends at a turn-around loop that is marked with a FS trailhead sign. From the highway it is about 3.5 miles to the parking area located at the Sayles Canyon/Bryan Meadows trailhead.
ACTIVITIES:
Equestrian Trail Riding (Rating: Best)
This is a top opportunity that receives light traffic. Trail riders, especially, will want to make a day’s ride of the trek by continuing on one of the connecting trails. The loop using Sayles Canyon makes a nice 9-mile ride with a good equestrian parking and primitive base camp opportunity at the trailhead. Spring flowers and fall colors are attractive, and cooler summer temperatures benefit from the relatively high elevation.
Hiking - Dayhikes (Rating: Best)
Great opportunity tucked under the west slope of the Sierra Crest, yet, receives light use. Spring flowers and fall colors both attractive in this exceptionally nice meadow.
Access off of Highway 50 is quick and suitable for all vehicles. If you chose to do the loop with the Sayles Canyon Trail, I prefer climbing to the Crest using Sayles Canyon. The length is somewhat longer which permits more gentle average grades.
Hiking - Backpacking (Rating: Good)
This opportunity is neither dramatic nor challenging, which makes it a nice place to practice or get away for a quiet overnighter. Bryan Meadows is dotted with numerous camping sites that are seldom used. For the most part camping is just a case of rolling out the tent and sleeping bag onto the grassy meadow. Watch for ticks, plus mosquitoes in the warm, wet season will be prolific.
The fledgling stream is too small for serious fishing but provides a good water source for overnighting. Purify all remote waters, anywhere, anytime.
Mountain Biking (Rating: Good)
This 3-mile, one-way ride by itself would be pleasant although short. However, about a quarter mile of the access trail along the Sayles Canyon access trail climbs rather steeply over a rocky section and utilizes numerous rock steps to gain elevation. Bikes would best be carried or pushed over this segment.
Then on the eastern end of the trail, it terminates at the PCT which is closed to all mechanized vehicles, including bicycles. In short, there are better places to spend time on only three, one-way, miles of so-so opportunity. Both the Bryan Meadows and Sayles Canyon Trails could be done together by deadheading back each time the trails react the PCT. The total in and out ride would be about 15 miles—less that part you have to carry or push the bike. It appears few bicyclists chose to do this. For me that is a choice I agree with. Then again, there are the spring flowers in the meadows and the fall colors…
