Quarry & Western States Loop Trail
This loop affords regular users of the Quarry Trail an alternate route rather than the normal out and back.
The Quarry Trail portion of this loop follows the wide, level bed of the Mountain Quarries RR. It affords nice views of the Middle Fork American River. The two sections of the Western States Trail (WST) cut through the dense foothill woodlands above the river. This loop affords regular users of the Quarry Trail an alternate route rather than the normal out and back. It highlights a small portion of the WST while skirting the quarry operation. The loop goes from river to canyon rim and back. Trails Included: Quarry Trail, Western States Trail-Tevis (portion), Western States Trail (portion), Shortcut Trail 1 (optional).
- Distance 6.3 miles
- Approx length of time 3 hours (hiking)
- Difficulty Moderate to Difficult
- Website Quarry & Western States Loop Trail
- Best Feature Beautiful views of the Middle Fork American River
- Hiking
- Biking
- Equestrian
Trailhead is 2 miles south of ASRA Park Headquarters. Take Hwy 49 south from Auburn; turn right across the American River towards Cool. Turn left on a small dirt road ¼ mile south of the river crossing. Trailhead is beyond the parking area at green gate (#151).
ALSO CHECK OUT:
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Regional Park
Auburn, CA3770 Richardson Drive, Auburn, CA 95603A year-round creek meanders through the north end of the park, and playground and picnic areas are nested in shaded areas.
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Morningstar Lake Resort Campground
Foresthill, CA24515 Foresthill Road, Foresthill, CA, 95631This smaller reservoir features family campgrounds, 100 sites, piped water, vault toilets, group area, small store, paddle-boat rentals, pay phone, and private (fee charged) fishing access.
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Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
Granite Bay, CA7755 Folsom-Auburn Road, Folsom, CA 95630Located at the base of the Sierra foothills, the lake and recreation area offers opportunities for hiking, biking, running, camping, picnicking, horseback riding, water-skiing and boating.
