Located IN: Nevada City.

Distance: 20 miles point to point.

Difficulty Level: Hard.

Know Before You Go: This is meant to be a one- to two-night backpacking trip. Campsites are available on the route and a permit is needed for fires and gas stoves. There are lots of mosquitos and overgrown sections, so plan accordingly. Bring plenty of water and a water filter, wear shoes with traction, tell someone about your plans in case of an emergency, and leave no trace.

Why We Love It: There is river access all along the trail, providing a picturesque and refreshing respite from the heat. Campsites are readily available; if you can’t do a multi-day trip, an out-and-back hike will not disappoint.

Fuel Up: With a menu built entirely on locally sourced ingredients, The Place on South Pine (theplaceonsouthpine.com)—a farm-to-table-inspired restaurant—strives to be an extension of the farmers’ market in Nevada City. Plan on grabbing an “on-the-go” burrito for the road or stop in on your way back.

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

by Ryan Martinez
Backpack photo ©Ljupco Smokovski - stock.adobe.com.

7 BACKPACKING BASICS

If you’re new to backpacking, here are some key considerations to ensure a safe, comfortable experience.  

1. Get a well-fitted backpack. Make sure your pack fits you and the waist straps sit comfortably just above your hips.  Remember: Much of the weight should sit on your hips, not your shoulders.

2. Pack correctly. Place heavy items low down and close to your back to help place the load on your hips.

3. Pack light. A water filter reduces the amount of water you need to take, which is the heaviest item you’ll carry.  There are many lightweight tents and sleeping bags meant for just this purpose.

4. Bring appropriate shoes. Never take brand new shoes on a multi-day trip; make sure they’re broken in before embarking on your journey.

5. Bring layers. While it may be hot in the day, temperatures drop quickly. Make sure you have a good base layer, mid layers, and an insulated jacket and beanie for nighttime.

6. Bring first-aid essentials. Make sure you have some iodine tablets in case your filter fails, sunscreen, bandages, athletic tape, and wound wash.

7. Always leave word with someone back at home. Even the best-laid schemes go awry, so make sure someone at home knows your plan and can call for help if you miss your check-in time.

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

Photo 1 by RHM images. Photos 2, 3, & 5 by Richard Fordham @floralshirtrichard. Photo 4 by Erin Thiem. The Place on South Pine photos by @crystallinelensphotog.