Pioneer Trail 03: Omega Rest Area—Langs Crossing
Logging effects along the Pioneer Trail a short distance east of Nevada City have left a vibrant young forest with many large trees. Crossing the Bear River meadows to the PG&E Discovery Trail is delightful.
Crossing the Bear River meadows to the PG&E Discovery Trail is delightful.
...most recreationists use the parking area south of the PG&E site as their trailhead...
DESCRIPTION:
4.8 miles, moderate down hill traveling east; difficult traveling west coming up from the South Yuba and Bear Rivers to the high divide at Omega Rest. Elevations: 5140’-4480’; times vary by users
From the PG&E interpretive trail, Pioneer Trail closely follows the Bowman Lake Road to Langs Crossing on the South Yuba River. Unless users are determined to do the entire trail, most recreationists use the parking area south of the PG&E site as their trailhead to and from Omega Rest Area. And Langs Crossing for the segment up to Lake Spaulding.
…..Steephollow Creek…………………………………..17.0 mileage point
…..Highway 20 Crossing……………………………….19.2 mileage point
…..Zeibright Road & Highway 20…………………… 20.8 mileage point
…..Bear River……………………………………………21.4 mileage point
…..Bowman Lake Road near PG&E Discovery Trail…. 21.8 mileage point
| Miles | Elevation Range | Options |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 5140’-5400’-4620’ | See Nearby Activities for listing of other segments of the Pioneer Trail. |
DIRECTIONS:
To Pioneer Trail 03: Omega Rest Area—Langs Crossing
To third trailhead along the Pioneer Trail at Omega Rest Area: From Nevada City, follow Highway 20 for 17 miles. Parking available in paved parking on west side of the restrooms.
ACTIVITIES:
Equestrian Trail Riding (Rating: Best)
Use is heavy by not only bikers but other equestrian riders and occasional hikers. Be alert.
A highway crossing is required in this segment.
Mountain Biking (Rating: Best)
Single track. Another notch more technical due to hills, especially when climbing west. Return or arrange a shuttle at either end.
This is the third segment of the Pioneer Trail fun ride. Traveling east the trail is a steady descent to the Bear River. This means if you turn around and return you will be going up a hill. Yep, you learned this in Trail Riding 101. You'll cross Highway 20 too. Be careful.
The trail was finished in 2001-2003, so the tread is good. Equestrian Trail Riders took the lead in doing the volunteer work. Be courteous. Remember they have the right of way.
Hiking: Dayhikes (Rating: Good)
Use this trail for the all-out exercise options not a chance to enjoy a quiet commune with Ma Nature. Yet, so close to Nevada City and Grass Valley summer evening strolls or early morning jaunts are feasible. Joggers enjoy it too, especially the lower segment. Pristine, it ain’t but still pleasant and handy.
