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07.23.09

Sierra Summer Splash

Summer fog got you in a funk? Make like Huck Finn and head for the hills! The Sierras are filled with some fun rivers to float and good old-fashioned swimming holes—here are three that fit the bill.

Oregon Creek Swimming Hole Yuba River

Holy Water

And on the seventh day, God created the Oregon Creek Swimming Hole. What makes this swimming hole on the Middle Yuba River so heavenly? It's easy to access, yet unmarked, so not many people know about it. Oregon Creek's got everything you need for a day filled with lazy lollygagging and refreshing river-dips. On one side of the creek, smooth granite slabs are perfect for laying down a towel and lounging; on the opposite side, a 30-foot cliff covered with trees and moss provides ample shade. And in the middle, refreshing Sierra water slides through a series of boulders, creating a granite stair-step waterfall with natural mini-Jacuzzis. Farther down there's a deeper pool with three- to seven-foot rock platforms custom made for cannon balls. Who's the rotten egg?

From I-80, exit Hwy. 49 going north to Nevada City. Oregon Creek is 16.3 miles up Hwy 49 past Nevada City. Cross the bridge over the Middle Yuba River—marked by a "Yuba County Line" sign—and the Oregon Creek day use area. 1 mile past the bridge and day use area, look for a small two-car pull-out on the east (right) side of Hwy 49 at the 1.00 mile marker sign. Park here and walk down the dirt path five minutes to Oregon Creek.

Activity
Water, Relax
Region
Points Beyond
clarks pool auburn

Clarks Automatic Refresher

Driving to and from Tahoe doesn't have to be a slog if you've got a refreshing pit-stop along the way. Clarks Pool is a convenient swimming hole just off I-80, and a favorite getaway for folks around Auburn. Dramatically situated under the tallest bridge in California (730-foot Foresthill Bridge), the emerald pool on the North Fork of the American River is crowded on weekends, but on weekday mornings you can have the place almost to yourself. Back in the early 1900s, Clarks Pool was a summertime hotspot with flocks of people, a concession stand, and a lifeguard. Today the lifeguard is gone and a ¾-mile hike is the only way to reach this Gold Country oasis. Eureka!

From I-80 in Auburn, go south on Hwy. 49. After 2.5 miles you'll be at the bottom of the canyon; at the intersection with Foresthill Rd., go straight toward Foresthill. Park after 1/4 mile on the left. Walk across the bridge and make a left onto the Lake Clementine Trail, which parallels the river. Walk on this for .75 mile, going under the Foresthill Bridge, and look for a spur trail on the left going down to the pool.

Activity
Water, Relax
Region
Points Beyond
Raft the Truckee River

Riverpalooza

If a tranquil river float is what you want, the Truckee River isn't for you. But if you're looking for a river with a lively atmosphere, then this is the place to be. With as much scene as scenery, Tahoe's Truckee River is 5 miles of high-alpine watery fun. The best part: You can guide your own raft and have some seriously raucous water-fights along the way! Ubiquitous turquoise rental rafts drift down the river every summer, filled with a cast of characters—from bachelor parties to families and friends just looking for a good time. The trip can last from two to three hours (depending on the flow of the river) and along the way there are plenty of spots to jump in for a swim. Lots of people just float along in giant inner tubes—or anything that is remotely buoyant, including mattresses and a variety of pool toys. The entertainment value alone makes the Truckee a marquee river run. Go with the flow!

TIP: To keep the good times flowing, grab a spot on the outdoor patio at the River Ranch Lodge—right at the take-out.

Rent rafts from Truckee River Raft Company (530-583-0123). It's $35 per person; a shuttle back to the start is included. They'll be renting rafts through mid-to-late August, depending on the flow of the river. Dog-friendly!

Activity
Water, Relax, Dog-friendly
Region
Points Beyond
SOAR Russian River Adventures

Dog Days of Summer

You've got the dog. Now you want to find the summertime day-trip you and the whole family can enjoy—in a place that's off the beaten path. Time to float in style! Head to the Russian River and lose the crowds in an inflatable SOAR canoe that coasts along a cool, clean, and quiet 8 miles of the river. Never been in an inflatable canoe? Think of it as a cushy Cadillac on water. It navigates with ease, and it noses to shore for snack breaks and snoozin' in the sun. SOAR Russian River Adventures makes it all happen. The family-friendly company puts you and two friends—or a pal and a pooch—in an inflatable canoe that floats a part of the Russian River most paddlers don't know exists. Enjoy hours of solitude, excellent swimming holes, and keep a keen eye out for bald eagles. SOAR will shuttle you back to your car when you're done—and they won't complain when your wet mutt shakes off the dog-day afternoon, making a splash that everyone feels. Arf!

TIP: Reservations are a must. Weekends can sell out 5–10 days in advance. Midweek is a great time to go!

Russian River Adventures, 20 Healdsburg Ave., Healdsburg; 707-433-5599.

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