01
Best classic canyon hike
Stevens Trail
North Fork American River Canyon, Just East Of Downtown Colfax • Historic River Canyon Trail With Big Views • Local Favorite
A classic out-and-back that drops from Colfax into a dramatic river canyon with long views and spring wildflowers.
Starting off North Canyon Way, Stevens Trail quickly leaves town noise behind and winds along cliffy slopes above the North Fork American River. Expect several miles of steady grade, sections of narrow tread, and plenty of viewpoints where you’ll want to stop for photos. Go early in hot weather, carry more water than you think you need, and plan time at the river turnaround if flows are low enough to enjoy the rocks.
02
Easiest river access from Colfax
Pennyweight Trail & Mineral Bar
Iowa Hill Road Corridor, Southeast Of Colfax • Short Forest Walk To A Broad Riverside Area • Best For Relaxed Half-Day Outings
A short, family-friendly hike that links piney singletrack with the wide gravel bars and swimming spots at Mineral Bar on the North Fork American River.
From a small pullout off Iowa Hill Road, the Pennyweight Trail descends gently through oaks and pines before spilling you out near Mineral Bar. Once you reach the river, you can fan out along the cobble bars, skip rocks, or stake out a spot for a picnic while paddlers and anglers drift by. It’s a great choice for mixed groups, but parking is limited and summer weekends fill early, so arrive on the early side if you want an easy spot.
03
Steep workout with big canyon payoff
Windy Point Trail
Deep In The North Fork American River Canyon, Off Iowa Hill Road • Steep, Rugged Descent To The River • Best For Strong Hikers
A short but demanding plunge into the canyon, rewarded with quiet river access and a sense of being far from the highway.
Windy Point is one of those trails that reminds you how deep the canyons around Colfax really are. The route drops sharply on loose rock and eroded tread, so trekking poles and sturdy shoes are smart, and climbing back out always takes longer than you expect. In exchange for the effort, you get a wild-feeling stretch of river, minimal crowds, and views that stack ridgelines in every direction.
04
Most versatile close-to-town option
Bear River Campground Trails
Bear River Corridor, West Of Colfax • Wooded Multi-Use River Trail Network • Best For Families And Casual Walkers
A mellow network of paths along the Bear River, offering flexible distances, shade, and easy access just a short drive from town.
The Bear River Campground area strings together several miles of river-adjacent trail, picnic spots, and sandy banks where kids can explore. Grades are generally gentle, making this an approachable choice for newer hikers, dog walkers, or anyone easing into hill country terrain. It is close enough for an after-dinner stroll, yet feels far more remote once you drop near the water and the road noise fades.
05
Best lakeside escape
Sugar Pine Reservoir Lakeside Trail
Near Foresthill, In The Forest East Of Colfax • Scenic Lakeshore Loop In Mixed Conifer Forest • Best All-Day Outing
A rolling loop around a Sierra foothill reservoir, mixing pine shade, open shoreline, and frequent water access points.
Though it requires a longer drive than the canyon trails, Sugar Pine Reservoir feels like a full-value day trip from Colfax. The lakeside path undulates through conifer forest, crossing inlets and skirting coves where you can pause for a swim or a long lunch. It’s an excellent option when river levels are high or you want something less steep but still scenic, with the bonus of cooler air on summer afternoons.