Hike to Hidden Falls

Hike to Hidden Falls in the Sierra Foothills

01.24.2019

Rain, sun, rain, wind, partial sun, rain … what’s a hiker to do? Go with the flow! Or rather, go to the flow. Hidden Falls Regional Park in the Sierra foothills near Auburn has 30 miles of multi-use trails, the most popular of which is the 2.5-mile (round-trip) route leading to Hidden Falls.

For an easy stroll, take the wide oak-lined service road toward South Legacy Way, which ascends the grassy hillside, with dramatic views of the valley beyond. At Deadman Creek, cross the bridge and head west onto the Hidden Falls Access Trail, a rocky path that creeps along the canyon’s edge.

You’ll hear the falls before you see them. Even pre-snowmelt, they’re at full gush thanks to steady flows from Coon Creek. A small observation deck will get you up close and personal, and a few hundred feet up the trail is a popular (i.e., crowded) spot for lounging on boulders, skipping rocks, and (in summer) taking a dip. It’s also a good turnaround point. Another option is to continue on, taking in the scenery from Canyon View Bridge or exploring the half-dozen other trails that converge here. Free flow.

BEFORE YOU GO: Parking reservations are required on all weekends and holidays, and passes sell out during busy times. No parking reservations are issued at the site. To reach Hidden Falls Regional Park, take Hwy. 49 north from I-80 in Auburn. After 2.7 miles, turn left on Atwood Rd., then right on Mount Vernon Rd. At Mears Dr., turn right and follow the signs to the parking lot. Parking is $8 for a full day and $4 for a partial day. Dog friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

    View

  2. Waterfall Hunter

    If you ask a local in Reno about one of the best hiking trails in town, odds are high they’ll point you to Hunter Creek Falls. It’s a year-round favorite, but it absolutely shines in spring, when desert peach wildflowers make a splash—and so does the marquee waterfall.

    View

  3. Cheers to Chimney

    If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but it packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring.

    View

  4. Eat, Explore, Repeat: Point Reyes Station

    It’s small and laid-back, but Point Reyes Station is a standout gateway to Point Reyes National Seashore. Fresh food, cool culture, and an unfussy vibe are part of the draw.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Bike the Coastal Trail to Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay

    Ride and Seek

    Oceanside breezes, beautiful beaches, a car-free pathway for biking, and beer at the end: You’re on a roll! The San Mateo Coast was made for beach hopping and beer tasting … and it all goes down smooth as part of an 8-mile out-and-back bike ride.

    View

  2. Garland in Bloom

    Carmel Valley is known for its quaint wineries and scenic hiking trails. Enjoy both on this 3.75-mile loop through Garland Ranch Regional Park.

    View

  3. Bright Point of View

    Here's a way to brighten your day: Head to Point Reyes Lighthouse. Originally constructed in 1870 to help warn mariners of the navigational hazard that we now call Point Reyes, the lighthouse was handed over to the National Park Service after serving for 105 years.

    View
  4. A woman stands amid an array of yellow and purple flowers at Descanso Gardens in Los Angeles

    Petal Paradise

    Tulips, lilacs, and daffodils—flower power is in full bloom at Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge. Sprawling across 150 acres surrounded by mountains, the gardens are putting on their best show right now.

    View