Olmstead Loop Trail
This beautiful loop trail, which parallels Hwy 49 on one side and the American River Canyon on the other, passes through open, rolling hills with several species of oak trees, and wildflowers in spring.
The Olmstead Loop Trail is especially popular in the springtime when wildflowers are in bloom, ponds and vernal pools are visible, and over 50 species of birds can be seen.
- Approx length of time 4 hours each way
- Distance 8.6 miles
- Difficulty Easy to moderate
- Elevation Gain 1500 feet
- Website Olmstead Loop Trail
- Great For Adults and Kids
- Best Feature Amazing view of the wildflowers in the spring.
- Pet Friendly
- Biking
- Hiking


Trailhead and parking are behind the fire station in Cool. Take Hwy 49 south to Cool and turn right just before the fire station and blinking red light. This is also the Cool staging area for equestrians. Trailhead is on south end of the parking area.
ALSO CHECK OUT:
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Greenhorn Park Campground
Colfax, CALocated on the coat of Rollins Lake, Greenhorn Park is a full service campground with 40 sites. On site is a general store, marina, boat launch, beach for swimming, showers, dump station and wifi for campers.
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Forbes Creek Group Campground
Foresthill, CAForbes Creek Group Campground is located on the southeast shore of Sugar Pine Reservoir in a cedar and pine forest overlooking the reservoir. It is near the North Fork of the American River with access to trails and swimming.
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Tahoe Whitewater Tours
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