Foresthill Divide Loop Trail

The Foresthill Divide Loop Trail is part of the Auburn State Recreation Area. There are multiple access points and parking areas along the route. Specific trailhead parking information can often be found on the Visit Placer or CA.gov websites, which manage the recreation area.

Yes, as the trail is located within the Auburn State Recreation Area, there may be day-use fees or parking fees required. It's advisable to check the official CA.gov website for the most current information on fees and regulations before your visit.

The Foresthill Divide Loop Trail is generally dog-friendly, as it's a multi-use route. However, dogs are typically required to be on a leash within the Auburn State Recreation Area. Always ensure your dog is under control and that you clean up after them.

Spring is an excellent time to visit, as the open grasslands are abundant with wildflowers, adding to the scenic beauty. The trail meanders through varied ecosystems, offering a pleasant experience across seasons, but spring offers a particularly vibrant landscape.

The full loop, which is approximately 16.6 kilometers (10.3 miles), typically takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes to jog, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

The Foresthill Divide Loop Trail is generally considered Easy to Moderate for running. Its rolling nature, with many short downhill sections, makes it good for maintaining fitness without being overly steep. While some sources rate it as intermediate for cross-country activities, its physical demands are manageable for those with some jogging experience.

The trail primarily features rolling singletrack, which is well-designed and maintained. Joggers can expect a mix of surfaces, including some fire-road segments. The path meanders through various ecosystems like shaded foothill woodlands, dense yellow pine forests, riparian woodlands, and chaparral, with sections opening into large, rolling grasslands. While generally smooth, some parts might be rougher, especially after recent storms.

Joggers are treated to beautiful and diverse views throughout. Highlights include panoramic vistas of Lake Clementine and both the North Fork and Middle Fork American Rivers. The changing landscape features yellow pine forests, foothill woodlands, riparian woodlands, and chaparral. In spring, the open grasslands burst with wildflowers.

Yes, a significant historical point of interest is the old rock foundation of the Grizzly Bear House, which served miners during the gold rush era. Specific overlooks, such as Rainbow Rock, offer magnificent panoramic views of the Middle Fork American River. You'll also get great views of Lake Clementine.

Yes, the route intersects with several other paths. Notably, it covers significant portions of the Foresthill Divide Loop itself, and also passes through sections of the ADT - California - T - Seg 4, Old Foresthill Road, Whale Rock Trail, Hoosier Bar, Butcher Ranch, and Uti Flat.

Yes, a notable feature of this trail is the ability to adjust its length with multiple entry points. This allows joggers to tailor their run to their desired distance, making it versatile for various fitness levels and time constraints.