Pointed Rocks Fuel Break Trail
DESCRIPTION:
No bikes. This steep climb makes a better fuel break than trail unless you want to push your limits. Some Western States Trail contestants use it as "The Training Hill" before they race. Near Pointed Rocks, terrain levels out to pleasant, rolling landscape with open grassy areas. Scramble atop the Pointed Rocks for views stretching from the Coast Range to the Crystals. But it’s much easier to get to the Pointed Rocks from Cool.
| Miles | Elevation Range | Options |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 580’-1640’ |
|
DIRECTIONS:
To Pointed Rocks Fuel Break Trail
Topographic map: Auburn. Directions from Confluence (B): Cross (south) over Highway 49 bridge and park immediately alongside the highway in designated areas. On the downriver (south) side of the highway follow an old roadbed down river past the green gate. Turn left up Western States Trail as it switchbacks and climbs immediately to the left before reaching the Mountain Quarry Bridge. But take a few minutes to walk across the old concrete bridge to sense its history. After 0.1 mile, Pointed Rocks Trail jumps quickly to the right as the Western States Trail rounds the nose of the ridge. No trail sign at the intersection. Directions from Cool trailhead: Drive Highway 49 southeast from Auburn to Cool with its one stop light (C). About 0.25 mile before the stoplight turn right (west) on St. Florian Ct. Park in the spacious parking area west of (past) the fire station. Follow signs on the north side of the street and the trail around the northeastern segment of Olmstead Loop. Continue on the loop until you reach the signed intersection for the Pointed Rocks Fuel Break Trail.
ACTIVITIES:
Hiking: Dayhikes (Rating: Good)
The middle, uphill section is too steep but the upper end around the Pointed Rocks is great. I prefer to come in from the south using the Olmstead Trail and skip the downhill section.
Equestrian Trail Riding (Rating: Poor)
This trail is too steep uphill for normal equestrian use. But the trail is often used as the "Training Hill" by riders and horses training for the Tevis Cup Race.
