Sugar Pine Reservoir Hike

Thursday, October 22, 2009

DIFFICULTY: Easy

ELEVATION GAIN: Beginning elevation 3500 ft, highest elevation 3620 ft (total gain 120 ft), slight climb near dam

HIKE DISTANCE: Approx 4 mile loop around Sugar Pine Reservoir.

GENERAL LOCATION: Sugar Pine Reservoir is located off Foresthill Road, northeast of the City of Auburn. 

DESCRIPTION:  This will be a leisurely 2.5 hour hike in a pleasant and relaxing setting with a 30 minute lunch break. Even the drive to the reservoir is enjoyable. The area is in rolling pine forest.  The hiking trail follows the lakeshore so there are views of the water. Most of the hike is shaded, but at this low elevation it can be cool in the morning and warm later in the day.   Be sure to wear clothing in layers.  Wild flowers will be gone but be sure to enjoy the beautiful serpentine rock formation surrounding the lake.   At the 3-mile point we will reach a beach and picnic area. The trail is mostly single file and dirt, with one section paved (near the picnic area). An osprey with young and an eagle are nesting high in the trees.

TRAVEL TIME/DISTANCE: Travel time about 1 ¼ hours.  The distance is 47 miles.

 Suggested donation to the driver is $9 which includes a $6 parking fee. We expect to return to Lincoln Hills by 2:00 PM.

HIKE LEADER/SWEEP: Vern Luke/Sue Geisler

FACILITIES AVAILABLE: Vault toilets at the trailhead in the parking area.

PREPARATION FOR HIKE: Refer to Standard Hiking Equipment Guidelines for Hiking

in the “Hike information and Guidelines” on the website. Trekking poles are always

advised. Bring food and water.

RISKS: Very few.  Some steep grades near the dam.

QUESTIONS: Call Vern with questions at 253.3711

Rain the day before or on hike day will cancel hike.

MEETING TIME:  8:15 AM at Orchard Creek Mail Box. We leave at 8:30 AM.

DIRECTIONS:  I-80 East to Foresthill Road just past the city of Auburn.  After exiting the interstate, get in the middle lane to proceed eastbound.  After the traffic light, proceed 26 miles to the left turn toward Sugar Pine Reservoir and campground.  Proceed 5.5 miles on NF Road 10 past its end to the parking area near the boat ramp.  Follow the double yellow line to avoid getting into off road areas.  An iron ranger is available to collect your $6 per car.