Codfish Falls Trail

No bikes or horses. These are not big falls, but they offer a nice family hike, shady trees near the falls, and cooling mists well into summer. The falls are mostly cascades totaling 100'. The upper reach is more purely falls and worth the climb. Sun- and shade-loving early season flowers are frequent bonuses.

To Codfish Falls Trail

Topographic maps: Colfax, Greenwood. At the Weimar Cross Road exit turn immediately right (west) onto Ponderosa Way and follow to the North Fork American River. The road is used year round but pavement ends where it drops into the canyon. In wet weather, the unpaved section can be slick and sloppy. High clearance vehicles are best suited to use of the road anytime, and especially in wet weather. The trail to the falls is not signed, but it begins at the metal bridge. A small parking area is available on the north side of the bridge where the trail starts. Head downriver (west) and cross the small beach that you see from the bridge. Continue for 1.2 miles where the trail turns up Codfish Creek. Falls are just upstream. Other swimming access trails can be found up and down the river from the bridge. Ponderosa Way continues south on to Foresthill Road east of Auburn 11 miles; this is an equally good approach to drop into the canyon.

Communities

• Auburn
• Colfax