What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Cronan Ranch Trailhead
Cronan Ranch Trailhead contains 12 miles of trails for activities like hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Located in Pilot Hill, California, the ranch intersects with the South Fork American River corridor trail that spans from Greenwood Creek to Salmon Falls. Due to this location, the terrain has a balance of slopes and hills along with unique ecological features like oak forests.
Length: 12 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Magnolia Ranch Trailhead
The Magnolia Ranch Trailhead is located approximately five miles north of Coloma, California. Easily accessible via Highway 49, the Magnolia Ranch Trailhead enables a peaceful stroll along the flat terrain of South Fork American River's Gerle Loop. Upon completing the Gerle Loop, visitors can cross into high-intensity trails along Hastings Creek before heading north to the larger Cronan Ranch Trailhead.
Length: 2.5 miles
Intensity: Easy
Old Flume Trailhead
The Old Flume Trailhead is a picturesque interlude between the towns of Placerville and Coloma. Accessible from Highway 49, this trail opens from a wide parking lot into an initial pathway of flat terrain. However, the trail then features a steep decline of 800 feet in less than a mile of walking. The trail concludes upon reaching the Racehorse Bend Rapid located on South Fork.
Length: 2.5 miles
Intensity: Moderate to Difficult
Fishing and Boating
The South Fork American River is one of the most famous whitewater runs for boating, rafting, and kayaking in California. This river has multiple access points and features high water flows during spring. The river also maintains a steady boating flow during summer months when other rivers have dropped too low for watercraft. Experienced boaters can traverse the 21-mile river within a day, and beginner or intermediate boaters can seek guidance from one of the BLM-permitted commercial companies that help operate the river. Visitors interested in fishing can also reach the Greenwood Creek River Access location directly from the Magnolia Ranch Trailhead parking lot.
Climbing
The South Fork American River flows through the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, offering a plethora of rock-climbing opportunities for beginners. Visitors can book appointments with commercial companies located in Coloma or Lotus, California. Most climbing sites start at the Gorge section of the river and conclude near the Salmon Falls Bridge.
Wildlife Viewing
Abundant in biodiversity, the South Fork American River is replete with salmon, waterfowl, beavers, and river otters. Mountain lions are native to the region, and woodland animals like bears, squirrels, furbearers, and jackrabbits live within the oak forests. State law prohibits individuals from hunting non-game species, but visitors can hunt game like deer or turkey during the appropriate season.
Picnicking
Popular picnic areas near South Fork American River include the Dike Eight Picnic Area in Folsom, California and the Bridal Veil Group and Picnic Area in nearby El Dorado National Forest. Both areas are accessible via Highway 49. The areas are animal friendly, but all pets must remain on a leash, and picnickers must clean the area before departing.
