Hike the Clementine Trail in Auburn

About this event

The Lake Clementine Trail offers a 4.5-mile round-trip hike to a 150-foot waterfall dam . Start here: [1 , 2 ] ⁠California Through My Lens Guide : Read the full trail breakdown and parking details for the Lake Clementine hike. Trail Overview & Quick Stats

• Length: ~4.4 to 4.5 miles out and back

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

• Elevation Gain: ~600 to 785 feet

• Time: Around 2 to 2.5 hours

• Location: Auburn State Recreation Area, near Old Foresthill Road ( trailhead marker #139 across from the parking area)

• Cost: $10 state park day-use parking fee

• Pets: Dogs are not allowed on the Lake Clementine Trail. [1 , 2 , 3 , 4 ]

What to Expect on the Trail

• The Start: The trail begins near the confluence area off Highway 49 and Old Foresthill Road, passing behind a green gate (Trail #139) near the American River bridge. [1 , 2 ]

• Under Foresthill Bridge: The first stretch follows an unshaded, dirt river path along the North Fork of the American River, taking you directly beneath the towering Foresthill Bridge (California's tallest bridge at ~730 feet high). [1 , 2 ]

• Swimming & Shaded Sections: Around a quarter of a mile in, you pass Clark's Pool (a popular local swimming hole). Portions of the trail offer shade under oaks and conifers, though early sections can get warm and exposed. [1 , 2 ]

• The Dam & Waterfall: The route transitions into a paved road section near the end, leading you right up to the base of the Lake Clementine Dam, which acts as a dramatic 150-foot man-made waterfall. Be prepared for slippery rock scrambling if you approach close to the base. [1 , 2 ]

Important Tips & Rules

• Poison Oak: Watch out for an abundance of poison oak along the single-track and dirt portions of the trail.

• Shared Trail: Parts of the path are shared with mountain bikers.

• No Dogs: Unlike some other trails in the Auburn State Recreation Area, dogs are strictly prohibited on the Lake Clementine Trail. [1 , 2 ]

From The Sacramento Girls Room