Olmstead Loop Trail
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:
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Segment of the Western States Trail (Michigan Bluff to Deadwood Trail)
Foresthill, CADeadwood Ridge Road, Foresthill, CA 95631The trail drops off quickly into Eldorado Canyon and switchbacks down to the footbridge over Eldorado Creek.
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Lake Forest Boat Ramp & Campground
Tahoe City, CA2500 Lake Forest Road, Tahoe City, CA 96145Campsites are available on a first-come first-serve basis and located just a few blocks away from the Lake Forest Beach.
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Tahoe X-Country Ski Area
Tahoe City, CA925 Country Club Drive, Tahoe City, CA 96145For the day skier visiting the Tahoe area, Tahoe Cross Country offers an high quality recreation experience for all ability levels.
