Located IN:

Nevada City.

Distance:
4.5 miles out and back.

Difficulty Level:
Moderate/difficult.

Know Before You Go:
The initial 1.6-mile trail leads you to several swimming holes, one of which is popular for nudists (hikers, be advised). The extension to Hoyt Crossing adds the additional mileage for those wanting more. There’s a fee to park. Expect poison oak, steep terrain, and lots of people. Bring your swimsuit (or not), wear shoes with traction and layers (to protect yourself from poison oak). As always, leave no trace!

Why We Love It:

As the days heat up and the mountains call, few things beat a hike with beautiful scenery and a nice cold dip. Make a weekend of it by booking a stay at Inn Town Campground (inntowncampground.com), nestled in a towering pine forest and sited about 15 minutes away from the trailhead (and minutes from downtown Nevada City!

Fuel Up:
What’s better than craft beer and wood-fired pizza after a hike and swim? Maybe a locally inspired menu that rotates weekly based on the season? Or perhaps fresh-baked pastries, cakes, and pies? What about a near zero-waste philosophy and organic ingredients?  With so much to love, it’s a no-brainer to stop at Three Forks Bakery & Brewing Co. (threeforksnc.com).

Cold Water Exposure

There are many advantages to exposing your body to cold water.  Here are just a few to keep in mind. 

• Boosts mood and relieves stress.

• Reduces muscle soreness.

• Increases metabolism and converts bad fat to good fat.

• Increases focus and cognitive ability.

• Improves sleep.

• Decreases inflammation.

While there are many benefits, be mindful when swimming in cold water, as swift moving water and cold temperatures are the cause of many tragic accidents in the area. As snow continues to melt in late spring, our local rivers are particularly cold and fast-moving. Avoid moving water and understand the risks of hypothermia, even as outside temps are on the rise.

For more information, visit
alltrails.com/trail/us/california/hoyt-trail.

Do you have a favorite trail in the region you’d like to see featured? Tell us all about it at [email protected].

by Ryan Martinez
Photo 1 by Kial James Photography. Photos 2 & 5 by Erin Thiem. Photos 3 & 4 by Sandra Boyd. Three Forks pizza photo by Angela Nunnink. Other Three Forks photos courtesy of the restaurant.