Segment of the Western States Trail (Michigan Bluff to Deadwood Trail)
The trail drops off quickly into Eldorado Canyon and switchbacks down to the footbridge over Eldorado Creek.
The trail drops off quickly into Eldorado Canyon and switchbacks down to the footbridge over Eldorado Creek. Good camping and fishing are available here. Campfire permits are required for campfires, backpacking stoves, BBQs and lanterns. After crossing the West Branch of Eldorado Creek, the trail continues up the other side of the canyon offering some very scenic views of the rugged topography. The trail flattens out and eventually intersects the Deadwood Road near the old Deadwood Cemetery, which acts as the other trailhead for the trip. This hike can be made in a day by anyone in good physical shape or a more leisurely overnight trip.
- Distance 6 miles each way
- Difficulty Difficult
- Website Michigan Bluff to Deadwood Trail
- Best Feature Well available near Deadwood trailhead
- Hiking
- Camping
- Fishing
Directions to the Deadwood Trail Trailhead: From Interstate 80, take the Foresthill exit to Foresthill Road and proceed 15.5 miles to the Foresthill Ranger Station. Continue approximately 17 miles to Deadwood Ridge Road. Make a right on Deadwood Ridge Road which is a dirt road and not recommended for low clearance vehicles. Follow it to the Deadwood cemetery intersection and park in the pullout near the cemetery. The road degrades quickly.
ALSO CHECK OUT:
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Tahoe State Recreation Area & Campground
Tahoe City, CANorth Lake Boulevard, Tahoe City, CA 96145The campground has 23 campsites with picnic tables, required-use food storage containers, and fire pits.
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Sailor Flat Trail
Foresthill, CASailor Flat Road, Foresthill, CA 95631The first 1½ miles of the trail follows an old mining road and is relatively easy. The trail then becomes steeper, with many switchbacks as you drop down to the North Fork of the American River.
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Quarry Road Trail
Auburn, CACA-93, Auburn, CA 95603This wide, level trail can be used for a half-day walk and a pleasant picnic along the Middle Fork American River.