Edwards Crossing to Secret Yuba Cove

Thursday, December 11, 2008

DIFFICULTY: Moderately strenuous; trail is rocky and narrow in places, with some steep drop-offs on one side.

ELEVATION GAIN: Hike starts at about 2000 ft. Net gain, with several ups and downs, is 500 ft.

HIKE DISTANCE: 7 1/2 miles (out and back)

GENERAL LOCATION: South Fork Yuba River, north of Nevada City

DESCRIPTION: Hike travels along the south side of the South Yuba River. Trail passes in and out of shady forest of canyon live oak, California bay laurel, Douglas fir, and large-leaf maple. Then the trail opens onto rocky cliffs with great views of the river below. Lunch will be at a sandy cove among water-smoothed rocks at the river’s edge. A great swimming site at another time of year!

TRAVEL TIME/DISTANCE: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes from Lincoln Hills. Distance – approximately 48 miles. Based on the length of the drive, a monetary contribution of $9 for gas would be appreciated - to be given to driver at beginning of drive. Expect to return to Lincoln by 4 PM. Detailed driving directions will be handed out to all drivers.

HIKE LEADER/SWEEP: Monique Wood/David Wood

SPECIAL NOTES:

FACILITIES AVAILABLE: Port-a-John at the trailhead

PREPARATION FOR HIKE: Refer to #8 – Standard Hiking Equipment, and #9 - Guidelines for Hiking. See “Rules” page on web site.  Note that the hike is along the north-facing slope of the Yuba river canyon, and there will probably be no sun on the trail at this time of year: dress warmly.

RISKS: Rocky spots, with steep drop-offs – hiking poles strongly recommended. There is poison oak close to the trail.

QUESTIONS: call David or Monique at 408-7562

MEETING TIME: 8:30, leave at 8:45.

A view of the South Yuba River gorge from the trail