Hike # 3
(For the Foresthill Trailhead see Hike # 14)
Directions to trailhead: Follow I-80 to the Alta exit (30 miles east of Auburn). Set your trip meter. Turn right at stop sign, then immediately left onto Casa Loma (signed). You will now again be traveling east, parallel to I80. At 0.9 miles, bear sharply right to go over the one-lane bridge (don’t go straight, which would take you under RR bridge). Stay on pavement and turn right onto Moody Ridge Rd. at 1.3 miles, just before the RR tracks. Soon, turn left at a fork onto Aguilla Rd. and follow the “Trail” signs to the trailhead. Be sure to park off the road and clear of the metal gate.
Trailhead UTM: 10 S 06 90 371 43 40 235
Topographic Map: Dutch Flat 7.5’
Elevation: 3871’ to 1800’ (5096’ total elevation gain)
Distance: 7.1 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
Jurisdiction: Tahoe National Forest
Trail description: As you descend steeply down this trail, you will soon be treated to expansive views of the N.Fk.Am.R. canyon (designated “Wild and Scenic”), with Giant Gap and hulking Lover’s Leap downstream. At about 3000 feet elevation, take the left fork in the trail, which will lead easily to the river. If you take the right fork, you will soon pass an old wooden trough and spring on your left, then you will arrive at an abandoned camp. In the mid–19th century, this valley was home to over 2000 people seeking their fortunes.
Campsites: Several marginal campsites near river.
Get Off Your Gass 