DogTrekkers who have discovered the delights of 1,200-acre Hidden Falls Regional Park a few miles off Interstate 80 near Auburn have plenty to bark about during waterfall season. The park’s namesake Hidden Falls, whose furious roar can be heard long before the 30- to 50-foot cataract can be seen, is at its gushiest at this time of year.
The 5.6-mile loop trail to the viewing area above Coon Creek is rated easy and is best enjoyed before hot weather sets in. A new observation deck at the falls was recently added, while two bridges, each more than 100 feet long, helped expand the park’s multi-use trail system from 7 to 30 miles.
A caveat: because the trail is shared by hikers, cyclists and equestrians, it’s essential to keep Spot on a leash, yield to horses and otherwise observe proper trail etiquette. (Rule of thumb: If you see or hear a horse approaching, step off the trail on the low side to let the riders pass. Never approach a horse unannounced from the rear.)
Photo Credit: Ed Burns
