Pointed Rocks Trail
This steep trail offers great bird’s eye views of the confluence and American River canyons.
This steep trail offers great bird’s eye views of the confluence and American River canyons. On clear days, it offers sweeping views of the Sacramento Valley to the west and the Sierras to the east. Its steep gradient offers a good aerobic workout, climbing 1000 ft in 1.2 miles. It follows a buried telephone cable on its ascent from the confluence area to the ridge and the Olmstead Loop. After reaching the ridge, the trail passes through open, rolling hills and meadows dominated by several species of oaks, and wildflowers in the spring. Limestone outcroppings at the top give the trail its name.
- Distance 1.6 miles one way. This does not include distance to trailhead. A variety of loop options are available.
- Approx length of time 1½ hours up, ¾ hours down (hiking)
- Difficulty Moderate to Difficult
- Website Pointed Rocks Trail
- Best Feature The Pointed Rocks Trail is sometimes referred to as “The Training Hill” on trail markers since it offers a great workout for endurance runners and equestrians.
- Hiking
- Equestrian
- Steep Gradients
Trailhead is on Hwy 49, 1¾ miles south of ASRA Park Headquarters. Take Hwy 49 south from Auburn towards Placerville. After crossing the American River, park on the right off the highway. Walk to trailhead through the green gate (#150).
ALSO CHECK OUT:
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Sugar Pine and Big Reservoirs (also known as Morning Star Lake)
Foresthill, CASugar Pine Road, Colfax, CA 95713Fishing: Rainbow and Brown Trout, Black Bass, Bluegill and Perch; Fishing by Permit at Big Reservoir.
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Giant Gap Campground
Foresthill, CASugar Pine Road, Foresthill, CA 95631This campground is set in a cedar and pine forest overlooking the reservoir, which provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, kayaking and boating under 10 mph.
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North Fork of the Middle Fork Trail
Foresthill, CAMosquito Ridge Road, Foresthill, CA 95631Although it is primarily used by people placer mining along the river, other hikers are drawn to this area due to its easy grade, scenic beauty, and year round accessibility.
