Codfish Falls Trail

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, for
some of us, worth the climb, but the best view is right at the end of
the trail. Can't be easier. Sun- and shade-loving early-season flowers,
especially along the river banks are frequent bonuses. River views,
including upriver to the Ponderosa Way Bridge, are both pleasant and
photogenic.

The trail follows the North Fork American River downriver for about one
mile and then turns up the creek a little ways below the falls. The
creek can appear dry as the water is running below the gravel and rocks
before it enters the river. At the falls, the sheer rock walls allow the
water to cascade into a lovely "falls." The trail ends litterally in the
rocky basin at the foot of the falls. Picture taking is especially
easily even if they lack drama. Morning pictures get the best sunlight.
Nice lunch spot on the rocks at the base of the cascades.

Best combination of water over the falls and wildflowers is March and
April.

Codfish Creek Falls Discovery Trail has been printed up as a well
written and illustrated brochure and begins about 1/4 mile down river of
the trailhead. Pamphlets are available at the start of the nature trail,
and we are asked to return it after finishing with it. Illustrations and
text were done by Heather Mehl as her Senior Project in 2001 at Colfax
High School. Good job and thanx, Heather.

No bikes or horses permitted to the falls.

To Codfish Falls Trail

Communities

• Auburn
• Colfax

Trails

• Indian Creek Trail