LOCATED AT:
  7587 Mears Place, Auburn

Distance: 3.2 miles; 488 feet in elevation gain.

Difficulty Level: Medium.

Know Before You Go: Dog-friendly (must be leashed); horseback riding and mountain biking allowed; parking is generally open and free on weekdays but must be reserved and paid for online in advance on weekends, holidays, and other high-traffic days (half-day parking is $4, full-day is $8); open year-round.

Fuel Up: You’ll be amongst the Placer Wine Trail where vino options abound. For food, head to North Fork Deli (886 Lincoln Way, Auburn) where they serve sandwiches, salads, plenty of vegan and vegetarian options, and even craft beer.

Why We Love It: Family-friendly; fairly shaded trail; decent amount of incline; overlook structures with stunning views of the waterfalls.

Trail Notes: Wear shoes with traction and sun protection (hat, sunscreen), dress in layers, bring extra water and snacks, and, as always, pack out what you pack in. Remember to keep to the right, and that horses have the right of way over mountain bikers and hikers, and hikers have the right of way over mountain bikers.

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