This beautiful loop trail, which parallels Hwy 49 on one side and the American River Canyon on the other, passes through open, rolling hills with several species of oak trees, and wildflowers in spring.
The Olmstead Loop Trail is especially popular in the springtime when wildflowers are in bloom, ponds and vernal pools are visible, and over 50 species of birds can be seen.
- Approx length of time 4 hours each way
- Distance 8.6 miles
- Difficulty Easy to moderate
- Elevation Gain 1500 feet
- Website Olmstead Loop Trail
- Great For Adults and Kids
- Best Feature Amazing view of the wildflowers in the spring.
- Pet Friendly
- Biking
- Hiking
Trailhead and parking are behind the fire station in Cool. Take Hwy 49 south to Cool and turn right just before the fire station and blinking red light. This is also the Cool staging area for equestrians. Trailhead is on south end of the parking area.
ALSO CHECK OUT:
-
Northstar California Golf Course
Truckee, CA168 Basque Drive, Truckee, CA 96161Designed by Robert Muir Graves, Northstar California’s 18-hole, par-72 golf course incorporates Tahoe’s mountainous landscapes with Martis Valley’s open meadow into two distinct 9-hole settings that will both challenge a golfer’s skills and appeal to his and her senses.
-
Kings Beach State Recreation Area
Kings Beach, CABear Street, Kings Beach, CA 96143Kings Beach State Recreation Area is a day-use only facility, with 18 picnic tables, barbeques, restrooms, a playground, a half court for basketball, fishing, and water sport activities available.
-
Whitewater Connection
Coloma, CAColoma, California 95613Rich in gold rush nostalgia, and blessed with breathtaking beauty, the Middle Fork of the American winds its way through a deep and remote canyon in the heart of the Mother Lode. Alternately wild and serene, the Middle Fork offers a combination of thrills, excitement and quiet wilderness.