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. Muir Woods Night Tour

    Thousands of people flock to Muir Woods every year, yet only a few see it at night, when this beloved park is experienced in a whole new light. The Muir Woods Night Tour happens on the last Friday of every month through October.

    View
  2. Slide Ranch Marin

    Slide On Over

    Marin's Slide Ranch has a popular neighbor in the Muir Beach Overlook. But don’t overlook Slide! This open-to-the-public nonprofit organization sits on 134 acres of coastline and is filled with animals, Pacific scenery, and an adjacent hiking trail.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

    View

  4. 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

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. 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

  2. Wapama Wows

    Hetch Hetchy can be overlooked in Yosemite National Park because of its more remote location and limited facilities. But this is where you’ll also find one of the best day hikes in the park: Wapama Falls.

    View
  3. 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

  4. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

    View