Mumford Bar Trail

This is a popular trail to the North Fork of the American River and is used by hikers, bicyclists and equestrians.

This is a popular trail to the North Fork of the American River and is used by hikers, bicyclists and equestrians. The trail is well-shaded. At ¾ mile down the trail, there is a nice view of the canyon, and straight ahead, a view of Royal Gorge. About halfway down the trail the poison oak begins. Be careful, as the leaf is not shiny, but looks like a maple leaf. At the bottom of the trail is Mumford Bar Cabin, which has been restored, but only for viewing. There is access to the river with opportunities for camping, fishing, gold panning, and swimming. Campfire permits are required for campfires, backpacking stoves, BBQs and lanterns. You can continue upstream from here on the American River Trail (see American River Trail description).

  • Distance 3.51 miles each way
  • Difficulty Difficult
  • Website Mumford Bar Trail
  • Best Feature At ¾ of a mile down the trail, there is a nice view of the canyon, and straight ahead a view of Royal Gorge
  • Hiking
  • Camping
  • Fishing

From Interstate 80, take the Foresthill exit to Foresthill Road and proceed 15.5 miles to the Foresthill Ranger Station. Continue 17 miles on Foresthill Road and turn left into the primitive Mumford Bar Campground. To access the trail, there is 5/8 of a mile road (at the back of the campground) that starts out as a 2WD road, but becomes a 4WD road.  NOTE:  2WD vehicles should park in the developed area on top.  Motor vehicles are prohibited on the trail.

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