Hike to the North Fork Dam of Lake Clementine
Auburn, California
Details
Distance
4 miles
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Clayton Herrmann
Walk under a 730ft bridge spanning +800ft on the N. Fork American River. See a stunning waterfall and swimming holes.
Located only roughly 40 minutes from Sacramento. This trail will allow you to view and walk under the 5th largest bridge in the US as well as enjoy the waterfall spectacle of a top releasing Dam. Once reaching Old Foresthill Road from the town of Auburn, drive over the smaller bridge spanning the width of the North Fork American River. Park on the right hand side, near the Restroom and Day Use parking area. This is a State Park area so be sure to bring $10 for the Day Use Fee.
Walk down the road to the gate with a sign stating Lake Clementine Trail. Stay on this wide trail that follows the North Fork waters. You will stay on this trail until reaching the Dam. After only a few minutes from the trailhead, you will be walking under the sky-scrapingly tall Foresthill Bridge. In the heat of summer, the cool river water will be a great remedy. There are numerous swimming holes located along the trail. Be cautious of flows and dangers underwater and downstream.
Roughly a mile later after walking under the bridge, you will pass yet another gate for which vehicles may drive down for the boat ramp to Lake Clementine. Continue down now towards the sound of the cascading falls. Pretty soon a waterfall and calm lake will be in view. Once arriving at the Dam site be cautious. The mist from the waterfall causes the rocks to be extremely slippery. Set up a picnic blanket and enjoy the falls or continue hiking to check out the lake.
It is important to note that it is never advisable to play in and near Dam Sites. Swimming in a river has its dangers. Be aware current strength and both underwater and downstream dangers. Dogs are not allowed on the trail.
Many choose to mountain bike this trail, as well.
The North Fork Dam was constructed in 1939 to prevent gold mining debris continuing downstream. Many Dams are no longer purposeful. It is important to be aware of the environmental impacts that Dams have on watersheds and the local flora and fauna.
Download the Outbound mobile app
Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.
Get the appFeatures
Hike to the North Fork Dam of Lake Clementine Reviews
Have you done this adventure? Be the first to leave a review!
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Nearby
Hike Training Hill
Hike the Quarry Trail in the Auburn SRA
Rock Climb at the Quarry
Hike around Coon Creek to Hidden Falls
Hike the Seven Pools Loop & Vista
Hike to the Jumping Rock on the Bear River
Community
© 2024 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy