Locals Share Their Hidden Gems

Locals share their tips of unique or hidden gems located throughout Placer County.
  • Julie Baird data-object-fit
    Julie Baird Recommends

    Foresthill Divide Loop Trail

    Foresthill Road, Foresthill, CA 95631
    • Distance 8.2 miles - Shorter loops are also possible. Add 1 mile from Trailhead West.
    • Approx length of time 4.1 hours (hiking)
    • Difficulty Easy to Moderate
    • Website www.canyonkeepers.org/tgforest.pdf
    • Best Feature Passes by the old rock foundation of the Grizzly Bear House
    • Comment This loop offers some beautiful views of Lake Clementine and both the North Fork and Middle Fork American Rivers.
    Photo: Erik Bergen, Placer County

    Julie Baird has lived in Placer County for 17 years and loves spending time with her friends exploring the county’s great hiking and local festivals.

    “The quality food and beverages produced in Placer and the rich culture and history, offer something for everyone. The outdoor recreational activities are seemingly endless. There are so many diverse activities to enjoy within a short distance of each other, there’s always something new to explore. But for me, what makes Placer County so special are the people.”

    Julie tabbed the Foresthill Divide Loop as her favorite hidden gem because of the beautiful views of Lake Clementine and the North and Middle Forks of the American River. Even so, she says the opportunities for adventure in Placer are boundless.

    “There’s still so much more exploring to do. I have a long list of Placer County adventures and experiences waiting for me!”

    Learn More

  • Trisa Swerdlow data-object-fit
    Trisa Swerdlow Recommends

    Art Galleries and Local Artists in Placer County

    • Best Feature People of all ages can spend a day learning about each other through their shared experience with local art.
    • Comment These are only a few of the many art galleries in Placer County. I hope you discover them all!

    Trisa Swerdlow has lived in Placer County for 15 years. She is extremely involved in the local art scene. “A perfect day for me would definitely involve art! Whether I am creating art in my own studio or exploring local galleries and studios to see the work of other artists.”

    High Hand Gallery

    Here are a few of Trisa’s favorite galleries in Placer County, all featuring the art of local artists.

    High Hand Art Gallery, 3750 Taylor Road, Loomis. A co-op gallery featuring an eclectic variety of art in a multitude of mediums from 30 member artists. Also home to Gallery II, a sister Gallery that has rotating feature shows bi-monthly. Great place to find unique gifts! www.highhandartgallery.com

    Gallery iQ, 3700 Midas Ave, Rocklin. A great little gallery in Rocklin that features rotating shows and offers classes. Call before going as hours vary. 916-624-1903

    Old Town Gallery, 218 Washington Street, Auburn. An artist co-op gallery featuring as many as 60 artists. Great beginning to a day exploring Old Town Auburn’s many cute shops and restaurants. www.auburnoldtowngallery.com

    Blue Line Arts, 405 Vernon Street, Roseville. Blue. A non-profit organization that showcases the works of regional and national artist, offers classes and houses performance art and music. www.bluelinearts.org