Tahoe National Forest

Mileage: 3 1/4 miles one-way
Elevation: 6,400 to 3,360 feet
Difficulty: Most Difficult
Use Level: Light
Topographic Map: Royal Gorge 7.5', Duncan Peak 7.5'

Access: From Interstate 80, take the Foresthill exit and follow the signs to Foresthill. Continue on the Foresthill Road for 25 miles to Sailor Flat Road and turn left. Go 1 mile north to the trailhead.

Trail Description: The first 1 1/2 mile follows an old mining road and is relatively easy. The trail then becomes steeper, with many switchbacks, as you drop down to the North Fork of the American River. The remains of an old gold stamp mill still stand near the trailhead.

A popular trip for many is to enter via this trail, proceed downriver, then exit via the Mumford Bar Trail. This can be accomplished in one or two days, but would require the use of two vehicles or arranging for pickup. (Total distance is 15.6 miles.)

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