Waterfalls, meadows, wildflowers, and a shady hike.
Sierra Discovery Trail
updated October 2012 for winter conditions, but other material is still posted below..
Families can enjoy taking small children,
even using a dirt friendly stroller!
Wheelchair accessible,
(maybe with a little help through the winding dirt section).
Near Truckee, in Tahoe National Forest, close to Interstate 80, off of Highway 20 toward Nevada City.
Near Truckee, in Tahoe National Forest, close to Interstate 80, off of Highway 20 toward Nevada City.
SNOW!!!
 |
| You can see this little gem by crossing the small bridge beside the Sierra Discovery Picnic Area. Taken October 2012. |
 |
| The parking lot was covered in snow and the trail unmarked at this time. |
 |
| A forestry road and a small turnout that takes off to the left of Bowman on your way in. It was also a pleasant stop with all of the autumn colors and enough snow to play in without having to go too far off of the highway. |
Farther down the road, in an attempt to get some photos of the South Yuba River, I had to turn back. It was one lane scattered with snow. Trucks passed me by, for hunting I assume. Notably, it is bear and deer hunting season. But if you are on a drive and need to get out with the kids, even play in the snow, Sierra Discovery was a nice stop.
In regular hiking season conditions:
The Sierra Discovery Trail is well marked with signs
and a large parking on Bowman Road
and a large parking on Bowman Road
1/2 mile off of Highway 20. Directions and details below.
 |
This 12 foot waterfall on Bear River
has a large viewing platform with benches for seating.
This photo was taken late in a dry year,
but water releases can effect the flow. A better year of rain or
earlier in the season would be best times to go.
At the start of the trail is alarge gazebo with informational posters aboutthe area, vegetation, wildlife, geology, and historyof the trail including how it was built.Wheelchair accessiblebathrooms at the trail head. This is one of several sitting areas along the waythat is shady and inviting! Kids will love the waterfall view! the trail comes to the river and this wonderful bridge leads to the loop. Kids will love it!Either direction takes you along the same loop, although the sign says to the right is easier. |
 |
| Even in August, wildflowers can be found alongside the trail. |
 |
| Throughout the trail there are informative signs and wonderful views. |
 |
| The instructional signs along the way give insight into the various aspects of these ecosystems, and can provide teaching moments with the kids. |
 |
| Pondersoa Pines |
Near the parking and the restrooms is a large picnic area near the "river"
and is situated in an excellent shady area.
Distance and Difficulty: .7 miles of easy trail
Driving Directions:
Take Highway 80. (East from the Sacramento area).
Exit at 161 (to Nevada City via Highway 20)
Head West on Highway 20, 4.3 miles (pass Lake Spaulding) to Bowman Lake Road. Turn right.
The parking for the Sierra Discovery Trail is .5 mile up Bowman Lake Road on your left. If you reach the bridge over South Yuba River, you have gone too far.
For more information: PG and E Recreation Area, (916) 386-5164
and the book:
California Waterfalls by Ann Marie Brown
*** Pioneer Trail is closeby. Although not for strollers and wheelchairs, kids would enjoy it.
If you continue up Bowman Road, again, before you cross the South Yuba,
there is a dirt turnout on your left with a trail marker at 39°21’57.97″N,
120°21’57.21″W for Pioneer Trail.
You can park there and hike through a thickly wooded moist area with water runoff creeks and even in summer is cool. Head northeast on an easy to see single file trail. It will take you out to the bridge. You may even find some ripe blackberries to snack on. If you choose to keep hiking cross the road, cross the bridge and at the northeastern end of parking you will find another trail marker heading into the woods again and uphill. I will post on Pioneer Trail soon, but just in case you visit Sierra Discovery Trail and want a little more, this can get you started.
Other articles you may be interested in:
Happy Trails and thanks for stopping by!
11-2012
No comments:
Post a Comment
Thank you for your visit to Peachy Hiker's place and for taking the time to share your thoughts!