To Walk in the Woods

The first step down any trail transforms. The world becomes tranquil, expansive and intimate. Sounds take on new meaning. The beauty of even the simplest thing is profound. The trickle of a stream or a deeply silent lake both find their way into breathtaking moments that cause us to pause and reflect. You can hike alone and think deep thoughts. You can hike with your kids and see their imagination take flight at every little thing that rustles, scurries or flies. You can hold hands, breathe air so fresh it has a taste and experience life slowly, intentionally and without any bias. A hike links a thousand perfect moments into one journey, and the hills near SpringHill are coursed with a treasure trove of trails from easy to hard.

“I love places that make you realize how tiny your problems are!” — unknown

One of our favorite challenging hikes is the wonderfully named 11-mile West Ridge Trail to Satan’s Cesspool. Great views along the American River that lead to a photographer hotspot above the whitewater rapids with the demonic name. For easy family hike, the nearby Canyon View Preserve loops through the American River Canyon and features some footbridges for that perfect family photo. No matter which trail you choose, the stunning beauty of our forests and canyons will become a favorite memory of your time in Gold Country.

Our Hiking Trail Partners

HIDDEN FALLS TRAIL

RATING: EASY | 3.3 MILES

This is a popular and well-marked loop with gorgeous bridge and Hidden Falls views. Parking fee: Half day, $4, Full day, $8 Online reservation required on weekends: secure.rec1.com/CA/placer-ca/catalog

7587 Mears Pl, Auburn, CA 95603

Driving Directions

(8 miles)

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LAKE CLEMENTINE TRAIL

RATING: MODERATE | 4.5 MILES

This out-and-back trail passes under the tallest bridge in California, Foresthill Bridge. The waterfall view at the end is stunning- go in the morning to see the sun paint rainbows in the waterfall’s mist.

Parking fee: $10

139 Old Foresthill Rd, Auburn, CA 95603

Driving Directions

(5.8 miles)

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WEST RIDGE TRAIL TO SATAN’S CESSPOOL

RATING: MODERATE/ HARD | 11 MILES

This out-and-back trail features river views and ends at Satan’s Cesspool Rapid, a lively spot on the American River where photographers often snap shots of rafters battling the whitewater.

Parking: Free at Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park

Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park, Pilot Hill, CA 95664

(Starting point for West Ridge Trail to Satan’s Cesspool)

Driving Directions

(14.5miles)

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CANYON VIEW PRESERVE

RATING: EASY | 2 MILES

Located walking distance from our hotel, this is a refreshing little loop hike that has beautiful views of the American River canyon and charming foot bridges. Picnic tables available.

Free Park & Ride Parking next to Trail

13760 Lincoln Way, Auburn, CA 95603

Driving Directions

(.5 miles)

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QUARRY TRAIL

RATING: MODERATE | 10.8 MILES

This out-and-back hike along the Middle Fork of the American River ends in an amphitheater of sheer limestone walls rising around you. Enjoy the beauty of the American river canyon and also pass by an enormous cave that was the site of both paleontologic excavations and mining activities.

Parking Fee: $10

Quarry Trail Parking Area, Parking lot, Auburn, CA 95603

Driving Directions

(5.9 miles)

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TRAINING HILL

RATING: HARD | 4.5 MILES

This loop hike features beautiful wildflowers in the Spring and meadow views. The first 1.5 miles ascent is quite steep at a rate of almost 1000 feet per mile, but then the trail becomes more moderate afterwards.

Training Hill, 150 CA-193, Auburn, CA 95603

Driving Directions

(5.8 miles)

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