This leisurely, 3.8-mile (round trip) hike follows the North Fork of the American River to Codfish Creek, which in spring sports a zesty, 60-foot waterfall.
Codfish Falls Trail Preserve, whose 30 acres include a segment of the trail, was the first property protected by Placer Land Trust, acquired in partnership with Protect American River Canyons (PARC) in 1993.
The preserve, surrounded by Auburn State Recreation Area, ensures that the Codfish Creek Falls Trail be maintained and open to the public in perpetuity. Highlights of the hike include a sandy beach where you can rest while Rover takes a dip, and a bridge popular with fishermen.
Note: The last 2.5 miles is dirt and best negotiated by high-clearance vehicles.
• Parking is free if limited, and the trail is open year-round.
• No restrooms or water available.
Directions:
• To get there from Sacramento or the Bay Area, take Interstate 80 east past Auburn to the second Weimar exit (Weimar Cross Road). Turn right on Canyon Way, which becomes Ponderosa Way. Drive south for 5.8 miles until you reach the bridge crossing the American River. The trail heads downstream on the north side of the river.