Stevens Trail
This very well maintained trail is one of the most popular hiking and biking routes to the North Fork American River, in part because of its easy access from Colfax.
This very well maintained trail is one of the most popular hiking and biking routes to the North Fork American River, in part because of its easy access from Colfax. However, this is a remote trail, and hikers are advised to carry a whistle or hike with a friend. The trail passes through oak, laurel, douglas fir, and huge stands of manzanita. The wildflower displays here are rarely matched elsewhere in ASRA, particularly during April and May. Take plenty of water and use caution, as the trail is hot during summer months and steep at times with narrow passages. Poison Oak can be found along much of the trail.
- Distance 3.2 miles to river
- Approx length of time 1½ hours down, 3 hours up (hiking)
- Difficulty Easy down, moderate up
- Website Stevens Trail
- Best Feature Along the trail is a beautiful cascading waterfall, and shortly thereafter is perhaps the most distinctive landmark on the trail – an immense bed of shale cascading down the mountainside.
- Hiking
- Biking
- Waterfalls
Parking is on N. Canyon Way in Colfax. From Auburn, take I-80 east to the 2nd Colfax exit and turn left on the frontage road, N. Canyon Way. Continue 0.6 miles; turn left into a small parking area. Look for “trail” sign marking the trailhead.
ALSO CHECK OUT:
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Truckee River Rafting
Tahoe City, CA175 River Road, Tahoe City, CA 96145The Truckee River Rafting trip floats you through tranquil stretches of scenic meadows, mountains and small rapids.
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Mosquito Ridge Trail
Foresthill, CAMosquito Ridge Road, Foresthill, CA 95631This trail is very steep in places with many switchbacks, as it winds its way down to the Middle Fork of the American River.
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Western States Trail – Railroad Bed Section
Auburn, CA150 CA-193, Auburn, CA 95603This short section of the Western States Trail offers an easy outing with ever changing views of the American River.
