Western States Trail – Railroad Bed Section
This short section of the Western States Trail offers an easy outing with ever changing views of the American River.
This short section of the Western States Trail offers an easy outing with ever changing views of the American River. The trail follows the old Mt Quarries RR roadbed for most of its route. Thus it is fairly wide and level in most places. Users pass several reminders of the railroad along the way. The trail remains in sight of the river through much of its length. Several small unofficial trails provide access down to the river and its many gravel bars that serve as swimming spots.
- Distance 2 miles
- Approx length of time 1 hour each way (hiking)
- Difficulty Easy to moderate
- Best Feature Views of the American River
- Hiking
- Biking
- Equestrian
Trailhead East (Confluence area by Hwy 49 Bridge): Trailhead is on Hwy 49, 1¾ miles south of ASRA Park Headquarters. Take Hwy 49 south from Auburn towards Placerville. After crossing the American River, park on right off the highway. Walk to trailhead through the green gate (#150).
Trailhead West: (Robie Point Trailhead): Trailhead is accessed from parking area on Hwy 49, southbound from Auburn ½ mile (on the right) or northbound from ASRA Park Headquarters ¼ mile (on the left). Caution: cars coming downhill are hard to see. From the parking area behind the gate (#130), walk ½ mile of Robie Pt Trail. The trailhead is a narrow trail on the left marked with a metal “Trail” or WST sign.
ALSO CHECK OUT:
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The Tevis Cup (the Western States Trail Ride)
Auburn, CA150 A Gum Lane, Auburn, CA 95603Up to 250 horses and their riders compete each year under a mid-summer full moon, starting near Olympic Valley and crossing the rugged passes and canyons of the Sierra Nevada.
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Greenhorn Park Campground
Colfax, CA1500 Greenhorn Road, Chicago Park, CA 95945Located on the coat of Rollins Lake, Greenhorn Park is a full service campground with 40 sites. On site is a general store, marina, boat launch, beach for swimming, showers, dump station and wifi for campers.
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Forbes Creek Group Campground
Foresthill, CASugar Pine Road, Foresthill, CA 95631Forbes Creek Group Campground is located on the southeast shore of Sugar Pine Reservoir in a cedar and pine forest overlooking the reservoir. It is near the North Fork of the American River with access to trails and swimming.