01
Waterfall favorite
Hidden Falls Regional Park
Northwest Of Auburn Near Mears Place • Waterfall And Oak-Woodland Trail Network • Best Overall Pick
A sprawling network of rolling trails leading to wooden bridges, creekside viewpoints, and the namesake Hidden Falls.
Hidden Falls is where locals go when they want a classic foothills hike with a real payoff. Multiple interconnecting loops let you tailor the distance, and the main overlook platform gives a front-row view of the cascades in wetter months. Go early on weekends and remember that parking reservations are often required.
02
Riverside classic
Lake Clementine Trail
North Fork American River Below Lake Clementine • Riverside Out-And-Back Hike To Dam Views • Best River-And-Dam Views
A gently climbing riverside trail that ends with a dramatic view of Lake Clementine Dam spilling into the canyon.
Starting near the confluence, this well-loved trail follows an old road grade above the turquoise North Fork American River. The payoff is a close-up view of the dam, where water pours in a broad white curtain when flows are high. It’s a great option for visitors who want big scenery without a technical trail.
03
Laid-back canyon stroll
Quarry Trail (Auburn State Recreation Area)
Highway 49 Confluence Area • Shady River Canyon Trail Through Historic Quarry • Most Relaxed Canyon Stroll
A mostly level riverside path that winds past limestone walls, relics of old mining operations, and calm stretches of the Middle Fork American River.
The Quarry Trail is a good pick when you want canyon scenery without steep climbs. The wide path tracks an old rail line, with interpretive signs and side paths leading down to the water in lower-flow seasons. Expect summer heat and limited shade mid-day, so many locals start early or head out in the late afternoon.
04
Historic hill climb
Stagecoach Trail
Old Foresthill Road Above The Confluence • Steady Hillside Climb On A Historic Route • Classic Local Workout
A historic grade that climbs from river level to the rim, rewarded with sweeping views over the confluence and canyon.
Stagecoach Trail follows a 19th-century route once used by horses and wagons, and it remains a go-to training climb for Auburn hikers and runners. The grade is steady but unrelenting, with switchbacks and open views that get better as you gain elevation. Pair it with the short side path to the overlook for a satisfying out-and-back workout.
05
All-day ridgeline loop
Foresthill Divide Loop Trail
Foresthill Road East Of Auburn • Scenic Ridgeline Loop Through Mixed Forest • Best Half-Day Adventure
A rolling singletrack loop along the Foresthill Divide with constant glimpses into the American River canyons.
A short drive up Foresthill Road delivers you to one of the area’s most satisfying loop hikes. The trail undulates through pine, manzanita, and oak, with occasional openings that frame distant ridges and river drainages. It feels quieter and more remote than the confluence trails, making it a solid choice when you want a longer outing without leaving the Auburn area.