Just past the cave there are some bluffs, then about a mile from the end of the trail there are a couple more spots where its just you, a 12 patch of dirt/rock, and big, blue sky. unless both horse and rider are thoroughly experienced with such trails. More of a moderate hike than hard. Iowa Hill. Great trail but it gets narrow with steep drop offs. The Stevens Trail was built in 1859 by Truman Allen Stevens, who ran a ranch in Iowa Hill and a livery stable in Colfax. Eventually, the use of the trail died down as did gold fever and it was all but forgotten until 1969 when a Sacramento area Boy Scout was credited with rediscovering the trail. Fun, fairly easy and pretty views all the way through. American River Canyon and back up the other side to Colfax via a bridge Park on the side of the road opposite the General You will work your way steadily downward until you reach the end, which is the American River. All Rights Reserved. The waterfall was beautiful and super full. just behind the general store (to the right.). Stevens Trail Trailhead does not offer reservations through Recreation.gov. This trail was originally established as a toll road in 1859 by Truman Allen Stevens. [1] The Stevens Rail Trail is part of the Concord-Lake Sunapee Rail Trail, which follows the historic Concord-Claremont Railroad corridor. A little slippery at the bottom by the river, but otherwise great trail conditions. The News only lasted through the year of 1855 and The Patriot only lasted a few months in 1859. After a . Waterfalls, California nutmeg, California bay, oak, ponderosas, madrones, assorted wildflowers. section of the trail is fairly flat and open, and actually goes by a The trail was a good mix of sun and shade, minimal bugs, and pretty wildflowers blooming. Theres still enough residents to form a small and dedicated community. So, maybe go in Spring/Fall or on a weekday. The Historic Stevens Trail connected the town of Iowa Hill with the city of Colfax, California. Take narrow in places and the drop-offs are a little scary. thousand at the height of the Gold Rush. Waterfalls, California nutmeg, California bay, oak, ponderosas, madrones, assorted wildflowers. point for the Steven's Trail on the other side of the river is a Stevens Trail is indeed a hard trail, just a heads up! This is a risky drive with plenty of thrill and amazing views of the Gold Country landscape. Look for this metal post marked "TRAIL" and an arrow pointing left. Bureau of Land Management Features: The Stevens Trail is one of the most scenic and accessible trails in our area. So glad to finally check this hike off the list! Footing is good to excellent, but the trail is Iowa Hill is not & finally received "line" telephone service in 2010, it was one of, if not the LAST town to have telephone lines installed in California. ", Please also visit our webpage for: North Fork American River. First half of the trail shaded well, second half is sparse. Phone: 916-941-3101 Email: BLM_CA_Web_ML@blm.gov ADDRESS: Bureau of Land Management Mother Lode Field Office El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 Latitude/Longitude: 39.17327, -120.789384 Directions: Getting there: Take the Alta exit off I-80 East, thirty miles northeast of Auburn. Great hike. Based on extensive research, this book includes: . Definitely bring extra water. 3, E Clampus Vitus. The Steven's trail provided that access. ), letting me know that was the worst spot. Iowa Hill (formerly, Iowa City)[2] is an unincorporated community in Placer County, California, United States. NOTE: All California game species are regulated by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). By the late 1860s, Neff became Sheriff of Placer County. Through the 1860s Iowa Hill became the main mining hub for just about all of the northern mines on the Divide. Unless you are It is a hell of a workout on the way out, about 1300' of steady climb. Also by 1856, Iowa Hill had over 140 buildings in town including: 2 large churches, a Masonic Lodge, three grocery stores, four hotels, a brewery, two hardware stores, 5 general stores of goods and clothing, a high end store, two butcher shops and a school. U.S. Bureau of Land Management - Stevens Trail, No conditions reported in the past 7 days. You can make it the full 9 miles or turn back at any point. Dispersed camping is allowed on public land for a period not to exceed 14 days. The trail is popular for horseback riders and mountain bikers, but mostly there are hikers. There was no recovering from this fire. Directions to trailhead: The Stevens Trail starts at the By April of 1854, San Franciscos Alta California newspaper reported that the diggings in Iowa Hill were of high value. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Many areas are unsuitable for bicycles. [6][7] The single landline was in operation for over ten years, but eventually became nonoperational due to the lack of maintenance. Definitely bring the app because there are splits where you may take the wrong turn. I was surprised at the amount of little water falls on this trail. When parking along North Canon Way, be sure to legally park alongside the road safely out of the traffic. Iowa Hill Road is a very steep, one-lane, winding road embedded within the mountains. Many historical accounts state that the rebuilt town was bigger and better than before. [1] The town is located 6.5 miles northwest of Foresthill[2] 9 miles east of Colfax and 58 miles northeast of Sacramento. In 1853, a group of miners rumored to be from Iowa discovered gold in this area. Hit the trailhead @ 9 am, which was perfect timing. Apparently, this wall was constructed by Chinese workers in the 1860's as part of the original transcontinental railroad. This region experiences significant variation in weather. Stevens Trail Trailhead Phone: (916) 941-3101 Email: BLM_CA_Web_ML@blm.gov Address: Bureau of Land Management Mother Lode Field Office El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 Latitude/Longitude: 39.105545, -120.947083 Directions: Follow I-80 East towards the town of Colfax and exit at North Canyon Way. For recreation, the town had: a few bowling alleys, a theater, billiard halls and many saloons. But, unlike many camps that dried up and disappeared, Iowa Hill was able to push on and stave off becoming a ghost town. It is in Colfax in Placer County California, Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, July 26, 2011. Stevens Trail 4.5 10 reviews #48 of 161 things to do in Sacramento Hiking Trails Write a review About An easy to moderate level trail through oak pines and gold mines. One of the best day trips near Sacramento. [3] Mail service is three times per week. The trail back up is long and uphill all the . Rural Telecommunications Infrastructure Grant Program. The river was breathtakingly beautiful and we did see ladybugs aggregating, as we often do this time of year. long single track to a nice river. Area by the waterfall was cross able but only if you want to get knee deep in rushing water, still pretty to see though. Pumpy on the way back. wonderful rocky area with great views of the river and the hikers on It is more in the shade than the Colfax version of Steven's . nearIowa Hill, California (United States). ) or https:// means youve safely connected to the .gov website. A local pup who will greet you A far cry from the 10,000 people 50 years prior. Trail Distance 7.1 miles Colfax to Iowa Hill, one way. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. let us know if any entries are incorrect. Pet Friendly Notes Pets must be on leashes. Stevens Trail leaves the graded road and heads toward Robbers Ravine. Keep A landing pad is located next to the town fire house. By 1880, the gold mines of Iowa Hill produced roughly $20 million dollars. Managed by BLM, the [3] Additionally, there are some historical reports claiming that Iowa Hill was being considered as the state capitol of California due to its success. and cultural destinations in your zip code and across the country. Trail-edge Dropoffs in some sections can be Wildflowers are even better than last Sunday! We hiked for miles on the Trails in the foothills and loved the beautiful views. River. note 7 below) are dangerous to enter. I strongly suggest packing this trail in stages & having more than one vehicle & driver. It is well groomed and wide enough for multi-use from My friends Mark and Tracey The Colfax Trailhead is located at the end of North Canyon Way. After leaving the Iowa Hill region, Neff ended up in Colfax where he partnered up with a few others to build a toll-road from Illinoistown to Grass Valley. Iowa Hill-the other Stevens trail Hiking trail in Iowa Hill, California (United States). Rutherford soon brought in a partner, Truman A. Stevens, also a miner. But, its worth the pain knowing that you finished such an amazing trail. Stevens Trail (Colfax) Stevens Trail (Iowa Hill) Iowa Hill Road Near Big Dipper Road: Iowa Hill: 1870: National: 2002001391: Iowa Hill: Stevens Trail (Iowa Hill) Travelers' Rest: 291 Auburn-Folsom Road: Auburn: POI: Auburn-Folsom 0291: Travelers' Rest: Truckee Trail Marker 39: Pacific Crest Trail: It begins adjacent the Iowa Hill Store spanning all the way to Colfax, crossing the North Fork in between. If you have a dog, please dont put their poop in a plastic bag and leave it on the side of the trail. This short but challenging trail affords some spectacular views of the North Fork Canyon and when timing is right a spectacular wildflower display. Bring plenty of water, it can get warm hiking out even on cooler days. Primitive campgrounds have no electricity, flush toilets, showers or drinking water. (Every year or so it is "rediscovered" in a Sacramento Bee Drinking Water must be carried with you. right on Canyon Way, and follow it about 3/10 of a mile to Iowa Hill By 1875, two stages went from Iowa Hill to the newer railroad town of Colfax. Amazing hike. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas. and back. The kids have to be schooled via independent studies and mail only comes a few days a week. He eventually brought in Truman Stevens, a miner from Iowa Hill, who completed the trail for usage by the late 1850s to early 1860s. This historical marker was erected in 1994 by Lord Sholto Douglas No. The Iowa Hill Road is intended for light vehicles only, trailers not advised. Highlights include a waterfall (during certain months) and a small cave. Dedicated July 4, 1994 This is a relatively unknown continuation of the very popular According to the Kppen Climate Classification system, Iowa Hill has a hot summer Mediterranean climate, abbreviated "Csa" on climate maps. No charge! FGC 3004 It is unlawful for any person to hunt or discharge while hunting, any firearm or other deadly weapon within 150 yards of any occupied dwelling house, residence, or other building or any barn or other outbuilding used in connection therewith. Distance. Although, many of the residents left, Iowa Hill was still surviving. beautiful hike in the sierra foothills. exploration up the canyon. If you are a history buff or just looking for an adventurous day trip, then I highly recommend checking out this once great city. It's been on my list, but because it's only listed as 3.5 miles long, I've never done it. About halfway, a waterfall appears that is rushed with lots of water from the rain. Along the way, you are mostly in shade, with California Bay and oak trees all around. Had to get around it on way down but was cleared on return. were able to spot a gold dredger relaxing on the shore on the other For a 97% of travelers recommend this experience. Pine and manzanita line the path with oak and laurel. This is great place to relax, eat, and cool yourself down. View Trail Map. The nice sturdy chain anchored to the rock was very helpful in crossing Robbers Ravine. Parking will be on your left. This road was in commercial operation until the existing road was built at the end of the last century. Gold Run is close to Interstate 80. The trail is located in Colfax just off of Hwy 80. The Stevens Trail is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. After crossing, head to the right and you'll finally be at the North Fork of the American River. It says 4.5 miles (9 miles round trip). Perhaps, the greatest adventure in Iowa Hill is the road leading up to town. are rare, but use good sense: Do not walk or ride this trail alone. This trail is over grown with huge amounts of poison oak and ticks, so be prepared for this adventure to the American River. Eventually, the use of the trail died down as did gold fever and it was all but forgotten until 1969 when a Sacramento area Boy Scout was credited with rediscovering the trail. There still were stages that went from Colfax to Iowa Hill, continued digging for gold, a post office and many great businesses. The beginning of the trail runs parallel along Interstate 80 but the sound of traffic gives way to running water and the cool air along the wooded trail. Elevation +. Please do not attempt in extreme heat and be wary of the hot ground on your dog's paws. The discovery was made on the north side of the ridge located at the head of the gulch leading into the North Fork of the American River. He built the trail and a bridge crossing the North Fork and charged a toll to the miners. feature article.) Very steep ledge after about the first 1.5miles. Motorized vehicles are prohibited. Trailhead information sign [2] Iowa Hill is now registered as California Historical Landmark #401.[5]. Only 50 miles from Sac downtown. background. A big tree down in the first mile that you have to go around up a slightly muddy slippery hill. He arrived in Placerville in April of 1850 after a 5 month grueling journey. Popular activities are hiking, cycling, swimming, whitewater rafting, kayaking, gold panning/mining and fishing. [1] Iowa Hill residents, about 200, currently use gasoline powered generators to produce electricity as wired service is still unavailable. Iowa Hill (formerly, Iowa City) [2] is an unincorporated community in Placer County, California. The Stevens Trail was originally surveyed under the ownership and direction of John Rutherford, an Iowa Hill miner and tanner. Only met two others on the trail, but by the time I made it back up several groups were starting their way down. http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/fo/folsom/stevenstrail.html. Vertical Gain or Loss Approximately 1,200 feet down to river from either trail head. It is now a popular hiking trail, extending 4.5 miles along the North Fork of the American River. Vehicles parked longer than 72 hours will be towed. Some people were going around. Check out my article on the Iowa Hill Road for more details and photos. view to the west with some deep pools immediately below this point In 1955, the first dial telephone service was installed running between Iowa Hill and Colfax, California, it was one line put in by local residents led by Robert F. 26. It has survived all of the disasters of its past and has fought off the dreaded ghost town obscurity. Located about a dozen miles west of Concord, the Stevens Rail Trail offers a quiet, wooded route in Contoocook Village. When I started at 11, the trail was dry, but on the return trip it was muddy and wet in spots. Stevens was responsible for the completion and actual use of the trail during its main years of historic use, 1870-1895. http://www.wikiloc.com/wikiloc/view.do?id=303635. So, that makes for a 9 mile round trip hike and the way back is all uphill. Definitely a do again. Iowa Hill: A community fighting off the dreaded ghost town label, The Ryde Hotel: a Delta landmark rooted in history, mystery and controversy, May Hollister Woolsey: Sacramentos endearing urban legend, The story behind the abandoned Colfax Hotel, The Cohn House: Folsoms historical, non-haunted mansion, Glen Alpine Springs Resort: Tahoes earliest resort, filled with history and adventure, USOUTDOOR.com Sale! Trail Distance 7.1 miles Colfax to Iowa Hill, one way became Sheriff Placer... 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Over grown with huge amounts of poison oak and laurel next to the and... Down to River from either trail head of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product have. Railroad corridor, it can get warm hiking out even on cooler days Lord Douglas. A 97 % of travelers recommend this experience wooded route in Contoocook Village wrong turn lots water. Are rare, but on the other for a period not to exceed 14 days from rain... The right and you 'll finally be at the end of the gold landscape! Disasters of its past and has fought off the dreaded ghost town.. This is great place to relax, eat, and cool yourself down Iowa Hill miner and tanner some views! Bowling alleys, a group of miners rumored to be from Iowa gold. For this metal post marked `` trail '' and an arrow pointing.... Finished such an amazing trail first mile that you have to go around a! This is great place to relax, eat, and cool yourself down County California, United States ) ). Douglas No the side of the trail kayaking, gold panning/mining and fishing dredger on... Last century rushed with lots of water from the rain of 1850 after a month!