Clarks Hole Trail
This short stroll leads to one of the nicest swimming hole and undeveloped picnicking site in the heart of the Auburn State Recreation Area. The short trail lays along the North Fork American River just a brief jaunt above the Confluence of this river with the Middle Fork of the American River.
...one of the nicest swimming hole...
...one of the most photogenic shots...
DESCRIPTION:
0.5 mile, moderate, elevations: 580’-720’-560’, ½ hour, no bikes or horses. Maps: West Slope.
Great family stroll to deep pool upriver of the Confluence. But watch closely smaller kids as it threads its way by a 50-feet stretch of rock outcrops. This stretch of the River forms a popular swimming hole and provides a great picnic site (no developments). Good fall colors highlighted by the riparian hardwoods and brush, too as well as one of the most photogenic shots of the peaceful river and the hugely tall Foresthill Bridge shortly downriver – in fact, one of America’s tallest bridges as well as movie star.
No bikes or horses.
| Miles | Elevation Range | Options |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 580’-720’-560’ |
|
DIRECTIONS:
To Clarks Hole Trail
Park on west side of Old Foresthill Bridge at green gate. Follow Stagecoach Trail to the unmarked intersection south of Foresthill Bridge. The mostly level trail that continues upriver a short quarter mile is not signed but is readily seen as it slopes gently below the right side of the trail just above the first switchback of the Stagecoach Trail. Actually the trail intersection is a couple dozen feet up the very bottom of the Bridgeview Trail.
ACTIVITIES:
Hiking: Dayhikes (Rating: Good)
Nice stroll and nice place to take kids, just to short to be thought of as a "hike." Great swimming hole.
