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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Italian Bar Trail
Foresthill, CAHumbug Road, Foresthill, CA 95631This is an old trail that was used by miners to reach the North Fork of the American River.
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French Meadows Reservoir
Foresthill, CAMosquito Ridge Road 96, Foresthill, CA 95631Popular activities on the reservoir include boating, canoeing, fishing and swimming.
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Camp Far West – South Shore
Lincoln, CA9300 McCourtney Road, Lincoln, CA 95648Piped drinking water, wheelchair accessible restrooms and some vault toilets. Activities include swimming, fishing, boating, water skiing, jet skiing, trails for biking, hiking, and horseback riding.
