Wednesday, May 4

Hike (1A) Foresthill Divide Loop (Canyon Keeper’s Hike)
 
Hike an approx. 5-mile loop off the eastern section of the larger Foresthill Loop trail.  Hike will cross Foresthill Road offering views on both sides of the divide.  Bring lunch, water, $ for parking fee or state parking pass and essentials.  No dogs.  Rain cancels. Meet in Auburn at Burger King, on Lincoln Way at Foresthill Exit off I-80 at 9:30 am.  Leader:  Sheila Toner 530-886-0673.

Wednesday, May 11

Hike (1A) Empire Mine

Hike an approx. 4.5 - 5 mile loop on the backside of Empire Mine State Park in Grass Valley.  Mostly shady trails meandering among old mining claims.  Elevation gain/loss is approx. 300 - 400 ft.  Bring lunch, water and essentials.  No dogs.  Rain cancels. Meet in Auburn at Burger King, on Lincoln Way at Foresthill Exit off I-80 at 9:30 am or at 10:15 am in front of the horse trailer parking lot by Penn Gate at Empire Mine.    Leader: Sheila Toner (530) 886-0673.

Wednesday, May 18

Hike (1A) Independence Trail

The Independence Trail, just north of Nevada City, is a good trail for views and wildflowers. This will be an easy 4-5 mile walk with a moderate uphill section on the way back. Be prepared for lots of stops for flower and potential newt viewing. The first part of our hike will follow the path of the Excelsior Canal, which was built during the Gold Rush, and is very level. After passing Rush Creek waterfall, we will take a dirt road down to the river at Jones Bar, and have lunch there before working our way back up to the trailhead. Bring lunch, water and essentials. No dogs. Heavy rain cancels. Meet at Burger King, on Lincoln Way at Foresthill Exit off I-80 in Auburn at 9:30 a.m. Leader: Chris Fox fox_chris@att.net or 916-918-9510.