Author: Rick Rockwell
Sugar Pine Reservoir: A Quiet Outdoor Escape Near Foresthill
Located within the Placer County portion of Tahoe National Forest, Sugar Pine Reservoir sits on the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada along the historic Foresthill Divide. Surrounded by pine forest, Sugar Pine Reservoir is the kind of lake that quietly does everything well when it comes to outdoor fun. And “quietly” is the key...
Iowa Hill Road: A thrilling voyage from Colfax to Iowa Hill
Gold Country is well known for its historic mining towns, legendary tales of the Gold Rush and the meager beginnings of some of California’s most prominent figures. But, one thing that’s unknown to most visitors, is the adventure that’s experienced when actually driving on the winding roads that twist, turn and...
Iowa Hill, California: The Gold Rush Town Still Fighting the Ghost Town Label
Iowa Hill is the kind of place that makes you slow down before you even arrive. The road narrows, as you pass through the Auburn State Recreation Area, the rover canyon drops away, and by the time you reach the old Gold Rush town, it feels like you have slipped into a stubborn pocket of …...
Iowa Hill Bridge: The Old and New Bridges Near Colfax, California
Iowa Hill Bridge is one of those Placer County points of interest where a simple river crossing turns into a wonderful piece of Gold Country history. Placed along Iowa Hill Road between Colfax and the ghost town of Iowa Hill, this crossing over the North Fork American River gives visitors a rare side-by-side look at …...
Pennyweight Falls Trail: Hiking to a Hidden Waterfall Near Colfax
Pennyweight Falls is one of those Placer County waterfalls that’s often overlooked for other falls nearby. Yet, Pennyweight Falls is a wonderful addition to any Auburn State Recreation Area visit. Tucked below Colfax, near Iowa Hill Road, Mineral Bar, and the North Fork American River, the trail gives you a quick dose of Gold Country...
Codfish Falls Trail: Auburn SRA Waterfall Hike
Codfish Falls Trail is one of the easier waterfall hikes in Auburn State Recreation Area, but the drive to the trailhead is what most visitors remember first. The hike follows the North Fork American River before turning up Codfish Creek to a seasonal waterfall, with spring wildflowers, canyon views, river access, and a rough final...
Hidden Falls Regional Park Guide: Trails, Waterfall, Parking, and What to Know Before You Go
If you want a Northern California park that feels both easy to reach and surprisingly wild, Hidden Falls Regional Park is one of the best choices in Placer County. Set in the Auburn foothills, this 1,200-acre park combines rolling oak woodland, creek crossings, broad valley views, and a waterfall that gives the whole place its …...
Rockbound Trail Near Wrights Lake: Guide to the Trailhead, Hikes, Fees, Permits, and What to Expect
Rockbound Trail is one of the more challenging Desolation Wilderness routes in the Crystal Basin as it gives hikers direct access to some of the deeper, more rugged scenery and destinations. Located near Wrights Lake, the trail begins at Rockbound Trailhead which offers basic amenities. While there is a quick trail option to Beauty...
Twin Lakes Trail Near Wrights Lake: Complete Hiking Guide, Fees, Permits, and What to Expect
Twin Lakes Trail is one of the most popular trailheads in the entire Crystal Basin. Located near Wrights Lake, this trail gives hikers a straightforward path to reaching alpine lakes, granite landscapes, and Desolation Wilderness without starting from one of the busier Tahoe access points. Starting at the Twin Lakes Trailhead, this trail...
Union Valley Reservoir: Crystal Basin’s Biggest Lake and Things To Do
Union Valley Reservoir is one of those Sierra lakes that feels like it was built for the perfect summer getaway. Set in the heart of Crystal Basin in El Dorado National Forest, it is the largest lake in the area, with multiple boat ramps, a long campground-lined shoreline, a paved bike trail, fishing, and enough …...