Discover Your Forest

Welcome

Thousands of visitors are drawn each year to the Eldorado National 

Forest’s rivers, lakes, and streams alive with fish; mountains and 

meadows for alpine and nordic skiing; campsites and picnic areas in alpine 

backcountry and dense forests. Four hundred miles of hiking trails pass 

through all kinds of terrain, from gentle oak foothills on the west to the 

10,000-foot crest of the Sierra Nevada. Two major highways - Highway 50 

and Highway 88 - run through the Forest, making it an easy drive from 

Sacramento and the San Francisco Bay Area. 

The miners who came to California in the gold rush of 1849 called the land 

“el dorado” for the fabled Spanish “land of gold.” We hope that after you 

have enjoyed Eldorado National Forest’s natural riches you will think the 

name is even more appropriate today!

The Forest Service is committed to nurturing and managing the National 

Forests in order to ensure the health of the land. As we respectfully use 

and play in these precious public lands, we are taking part in a shared 

vision for the future. 

Located in the Central Sierra Nevada region, the Eldorado National Forest 

is considered an urban forest. It is located one hour from the metropolitan 

area of Sacramento which has a population of over one million people, and 

three hours from the San Francisco Bay area, with a population of over six 

million. The Forest plays a vital role in the environment, health and well 

being of over seven million people.

This forest is an ideal place for people seeking to escape from busy urban 

lifestyles. Its climate and topography offer a wide range of recreational 

opportunities, including hiking, fishing, boating, camping and crosscountry and downhill skiing.

What Is Inside?

What To Do? 2

Where To Go? 3

Traveling 6

Know Before You Go 7

Map 8

Something For Everyone

The Eldorado National Forest divides its 605,252 

acres into four areas called ranger districts: Amador, 

Georgetown, Pacific and Placerville. The districts 

manage the land for watershed, range and forest health, 

wildlife habitat, heritage resources, and multiple 

recreation opportunities. 

Consequently, you are sharing the land with ranchers, 

contractors, and people enjoying hiking, motorcycling, 

camping, and much more. These lands are a shared 

resource that belong to everyone.

Because this guide covers the entire Eldorado National 

Forest, information contained within is a general 

overview of this large area. For detailed recreation 

information on trails, campgrounds, roads, current 

conditions and closures, or management information, 

always seek out the local forest offices or go to www.

fs.usda.gov/eldorado. 

Desolation Wilderness. Photo by Jon Erickson.

Quick Facts

♦ Acreage = 605,252 

♦ Elevation = ranges from 1,000 to 10,000 feet

♦ Climate = Warm, dry summers and cold wet winters.

♦ Lakes, Reservoirs, and Ponds = 888 including 11 

large reservoirs

♦ Major River Canyons = Mokelumne, Cosumnes, 

American, and Rubicon. 

♦ Streams and Rivers (year-round) = 2,853 miles

♦ Fishable Streams and Rivers = 611 miles

♦ Animal Species = 340 

♦ Plant Species = 1,136

♦ Vegetation Types = Chaparral, oak woodland, 

mixed-conifer, fir, and sub-alpine trees.

♦ Campgrounds = 57

♦ National Historic Trails = Carson Emigrant Trail, 

Pony Express Trail, and Pacific Crest Trail

Visitor Guide

Amador

Placerville 

Pacific

Georgetown

Ranger Districts

United States Department of Agriculture

Forest 

Service

Pacific Southwest 

Region

Eldorado

National Forest

Eldorado National Forest

R5-RG-264

October 2016
Fishing

The rivers, creeks, and lakes in the 

Eldorado National Forest abound with 

rainbow, brown, and brook trout, 

offering fishing enthusiasts a first-rate 

rod-and-reel experience. The fishing 

season in rivers begins in late April and 

runs through mid-November; a license 

is required. Lakes are open to fishing 

year-round. Check out the California 

Department of Fish and Wildlife website 

at www.wildlife.ca.gov for license and 

planting information.

Horse Riding & Camping

See the Sierra the way the settlers saw it, 

by horseback. Enjoy the quiet and solitude 

for a half-hour or a week-long packing 

trip. Popular horse camping areas are Dru 

Barner, Tells Creek, Wrights Lake, and 

Loon Lake equestrian campgrounds.

Boating

Alpine lakes fed by melting winter snows 

are paradise for water sports enthusiasts. 

Whether you prefer a kayak, sail or ski 

boat, you will find plenty of pristine, high 

mountain lakes for your enjoyment. Silver 

Lake and Union Valley Reservoir are great 

for boating, skiing, sailing, kayaking, and 

canoeing. For a non-motorized paddle 

Woods Lake and Wrights Lake are great 

places to go.

Bicycling

There are excellent mountain biking 

opportunities on trails and roads within 

the Forest that will lead you on an 

adventure. The Union Valley Bike Trail is a 

paved 6 mile long trail along the east side 

of the reservoir which is a great family 

or beginner trail. The more experienced 

rider will enjoy the Fleming Meadow Trail 

system that allows you to control the 

length and difficulty of your ride. The Rock 

Creek Recreational Trail System is a great 

lower elevation trail system that is at least 

partly accessible in the winter. Riders are 

welcome on most National Forest roads 

as well as trails outside of designated 

wilderness areas and the Pacific Crest 

Trail.

Skiing, Snowshoeing, and 

Snowmobiling

The Eldorado National Forest provides 

easy access to plenty of terrain perfect 

for winter recreation. Whether you 

prefer back-country skiing, snowshoeing, 

downhill skiing, snowmobiling, or just 

playing in the snow you can find a place 

on the forest to enjoy yourself. You can go 

snowshoeing and cross-country skiing at 

the Loon Lake Winter Recreation area, 

Strawberry Canyon Nordic trails, Echo 

Summit trails, Anderson Ridge trails, 

Meiss Meadow trails, and Kirkwood 

Cross-country Resort. The Silver Bear 

Trail system offers excellent groomed 

snowmobile trails. Snowmobiles are 

not allowed in the wilderness. Sierra 

Mountain Resort and Kirkwood Mountain 

Resort offer premier downhill skiing and 

snowboarding opportunities.

Staying Overnight?

Looking for a campground?

Are you driving a motor home? Pulling a 

trailer? Pitching a tent? One of our more than 

50 campgrounds has a spot for you! Most 

are open Memorial Day through Labor Day 

or longer. Many accept reservations through 

Recreation.gov; others are first-come, firstserved. Fees vary. Don’t hesitate - in July and 

August, many campgrounds fill fast. 

Prefer to “Get Away From It All”? 

Try camping in an undeveloped area with no 

facilities and no fees. The advantages to this 

type of camping include solitude, quiet, and 

adventure. 

Where allowed, just pull off the road and 

park in a way that does not obstruct traffic 

or damage resources; never drive in fragile 

wetlands or meadows. Remember all 

motorized vehicles must be no further than 

one vehicle length off a designated route. 

Please practice Leave No Trace principles. 

Camp at least 100 feet from water sources. 

Come prepared to provide everything you 

need, including drinking water and waste 

disposal. With no toilet facilities, bury 

human waste in a six-inch hole well away 

from trails, water, and other campers. Pack 

out used toilet paper with your garbage. 

Please leave the area in as good (or better) 

condition than you found it. Often, locations 

destroyed by thoughtless campers must be 

closed to restore the area’s natural health. 

Help ensure your favorite area remains 

open. A campfire permit is required. 

Prefer to sleep indoors?

Harvey West Cabin, Sly Park Guard Station, 

Robbs Hut, Van Vleck Bunkhouse, and Loon 

Lake Chalets are available for rental through 

Recreation.gov. 

Campfires

Campfire permits are required for all wood, 

charcoal, and gas fires. The permit is free.

♦ There should be a 5 foot clearance around 

the fire. Build campfires away from lowhanging branches and in an area clear of 

vegetation. 

♦ Never leave your fire unattended even for 

a few hours. Be sure your fire is completely 

extinguished and out cold before leaving 

using the Drown/Stir/Feel method. 

♦ Check with your local ranger district office 

for current conditions and restrictions. 

♦ Permits can be obtained online at www.

preventwildfireca.org or from any national 

forest, CalFire, or BLM office. 

♦ Firewood: Gather or cut only dead wood 

lying on the ground for your campfire. You 

can use a chainsaw if the saw has a spark 

arrestor. You will need a woodcutting 

permit to take firewood home.

♦ Fireworks are not allowed in a national 

forest.

Fire Restrictions

Wood and charcoal fire may not 

be allowed during the hot, dry 

season. Consider using a gas 

stove or bbq as an alternative to 

campfires. 

What To Do

Wildlife viewing is a unique and special opportunity in a national forest. Just 

remember that this is their home and keep your distance. Keep a clean camp 

and don’t feed the wildlife. FS Photo.

Tubing behind a boat on Union Valley Reservoir. Photo by Kristi Schroeder.

2 Eldorado National Forest Visitor Guide
Reservations

Toll-Free: 877-444-6777 

TDD: 877-833-6777 

INTL: 518-885-3639 

Internet: www.Recreation.gov

General Information

Current information available at 

www.fs.usda.gov/eldorado.

Fees: Campground fees are subject to 

change. At some campgrounds there 

is an extra charge for each additional 

vehicle and/or pets.

Limits: Single-family campsites 

accommodate 6 persons and 2 

vehicles. Double sites handle 12 

persons and 4 vehicles.

First Night: Site must be occupied 

the first night. Equipment cannot 

be left unattended for more than 24 

hours.

Stay Limit: Each stay is limited to 14 

days per district.

Check-out time is 1:00 p.m. Check-in 

time is 2:00 pm.

Pets are permitted and must be kept 

on a 6-foot leash at all times.

Interagency Passes

Senior Passes are a life time pass 

available for a one-time $10.00 fee to 

persons 62 years of age or older. 

Access Passes are a life time pass 

free to qualifying persons who are 

blind or permanently disabled. 

These cards entitle the holder to a 

50% discount at federal recreation 

areas. They do not apply to group 

sites, cabin rentals, parking, or 

wilderness permits. 

Annual Passes can be purchased by 

any individual for $80. It is honored 

by sites that charge entrance and 

standard amenity fees and receive no 

other discounts. One year.

♦ Entrance Fee: A fee charged 

to access lands managed by the 

National Park Service and U.S. 

Fish and Wildlife Service. 

♦ Standard Amenity Fee: 

Fees for use of sites that 

have a combination of basic 

amenities – picnic tables, trash 

receptacles, toilets, developed 

parking, interpretive signing, 

and security. 

To obtain a pass, please contact 

your nearest Forest Service, National 

Park, or Bureau of Land Management 

office.

Area Name

# Sites

Picnic Sites

Group Sites

Fee

Reservations

W

ater

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

S

wimming

B

o

ating

ADA Access

Notes

Georgetown Dru Barner Park 48 Y Y Y Y Equestrian campground

Stumpy

Meadows

Reservoir

Ponderosa Cove Group 1 Y Y Y Y 75 people

Stumpy Meadows 40 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Boatramp, 5 mph limit

Black Oak Group 4 Y Y Y Y Y Y 25/50/75 people

Hell Hole

Reservoir

Middle Meadows Group 2 Y Y Y Y

Big Meadows 53 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Boatramp within 1 mile

Hell Hole 10 Y Y Y Y Boatramp nearby

Crystal Basin

Ice House

Road

Silver Creek Group 1 Y Y Y 40 people, no trailers

Robbs Hut 1 Y Y Y Y 6 people, year-round

Van Vleck Bunkhouse 1 Y Y Y Y Y 6 people, year-round

South Fork Group 1 Y Y Y 125 people

Wrights Lake 67 10 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y No motor boats, 15 

equestrian sites

Ice House

Reservoir

Ice House 83 10 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Boatramp, dump station

Northwind 9 Y Y Y Y Y Y

Strawberry Point 10 Y Y Y Y Y Y

Union Valley

Reservoir

Jones Fork 10 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Lone Rock 5 Y Y Y Y Y Boat or trail access only

Sunset 131 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Boatramp

Fashoda Tent 30 5 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Tents only, walk-in sites

Big Silver Group 1 Y Y Y Y Y Y 50 people

Azalea Cove 10 Y Y Y Y Y Boat or trail access only

Wench Creek 100 2 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 50 person group site

Yellowjacket 40 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Boatramp

Wolf Creek 42 3 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Dump station, 25/50 

people

Camino Cove 32 Y Y Y

Westpoint 8 y y Y Boatramp

Gerle Creek

Reservoir

Angel Creek Picnic 4 Y Y Y No motor boats

Gerle Creek 50 4 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y No motor boats

Airport Flat 16 Y Y Y

Loon Lake

Loon Lake 53 5 3 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Boatramp, dump station, 

9 equestrian sites 

Loon Chalet 1 Y Y Y Y Y Y 20 people, year-round

Northshore 15 Y Y Y Y Y Y

Red Fir Group 1 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Wentworth Springs 8 Y Y Y 4wd access, no trailers

Highway 50 

Corridor

Bridal Veil Picnic 30 1 Y Y Y Y American River, 50 people

Sand Flat 29 Y Y Y Y American River

Lovers Leap 21 Y Y Y Y Rock climbing

Silver Fork

Road

China Flat 18 5 Y Y Y Y Y Y American river

Harvey West Cabin 1 Y Y Y Y Y Y 20 people

Silver Fork 35 Y Y Y Y Y American River

Sly Park Road

Sly Guard Station 1 Y Y Y Y 12 people. Sly Park 

Reservoir nearby

North South

Pipi 51 5 Y Y Y Y Y

Capps Crossing Group 1 Y Y Y Y Y Y 40 people

Highway 88 

Corridor

Middle Fork Cosumnes 11 Y Y Y Cosumnes River

Silver Lake East 62 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Boatramp nearby

Silver Lake West - EID 35 Y Y Y Y Y Y Operated by EID

Sandy Cove Picnic - EID 5 Y Y Y Y Y Y Operated by EID

Kirkwood Lake 12 Y Y Y Y Y No motor boats

Caples Lake 34 Y Y Y Y Y Boatramp, 5 mph limit

Woods Lake 25 8 Y Y Y Y Y No motor boats or trailers

Bear River 

Reservoir

Sugar Pine Point 8 Y Y Y Y Y

South Shore 22 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Pardoes Point 10 5 Y Y Y Y Y

Bear River Group 4 Y Y Y Y Y Y Boatramp, 25/50 people

Salt Springs

Mokelumne 13 Y Y Mokelumne River, yr-rd

Moore Creek 8 Y Y Mokelumne River, yr-rd

White Azalea 6 Y Y Mokelumne River, yr-rd

Where To Go - Campgrounds & Picnic Areas

 Eldorado National Forest Visitor Guide 3
Area Name

Miles 1 way

Difficulty

Use T

ype

Major Access

Road

Information

Visitors will need a forest map for navigation. 

See map options in “Know Before You Go”.

Georgetown

Highway 193

11E12 One Eye Creek 1.5 S HE Traverse Creek Trail drops into Rock Creek drainage with a view of Castle Rocks.

10E04 Mar Det 4.8 M HE Meadowbrook Trail goes through low elevation mixed conifer forest ending on Darling Ridge road.

Wentworth

Springs road

11E08 Kelliher 2 S H Bottle Hill Old miner’s trail to Volcanoville which goes down to Otter Creek.

11E06 Otter Creek 1.4 S HE Bottle Hill Trail decends to Otter Creek, crosses, and climbs up to Paymaster Mine road to Volcanoville.

11E14 Bald Mtn. Canyon 1.6 S H 12N89 Steep trail down to Rock Creek, crosses creek and continues to Sugarloaf Mountain.

11E15 Sugarloaf 0.8 S H Mace Mill Goes into Rock Creek drainage to Sugarloaf Mountain.

11E13 Martin 1.6 M HEB 12N31 Moderately steep trail down to Rock Creek and up other side. Motorcycles allowed.

12E07 Nevada Point 1.2 S HEB Rubicon rd spur Trail winds down to Pilot Creek then to Rubicon River where bridge is washed out . Rest of trail is not accessible.

Georgetown

Upper

Country

13E16 Lawyer 1.3 S H Eleven Pines Trail drops into Rubicon River drainage ending in a gorge with a large fishing, swimming hole.

14E09 Hunter 10 M HB Eleven Pines Trail parallels Rubicon River with many fishing and swimming holes. Motorcycles allowed.

14E02 Hell Hole 4.3 M H Hell Hole Dam Scenic and rocky walk along reservoir ending at Upper Hell Hole campground.

Crystal Basin

Ice House

road

14E01 Ice House Bike Trail 3.1 M HB Wright Lake Tie Trail goes through Strawberry, Northwind, and Ice House campgrounds and winds along ridge tops with views of 

Crystal Range and Ice House Reservoir. West end connects to Big Hill road system.

14E12 Union Valley Bike Tr. 4.8 E HB Union Valley CGs Paved trail through campgrounds with beautiful views of Union Valley. Interpretive signs along trail. 2 segments.

15E10 Bassi Falls 2 M HEB 12N32 Winds through forest by Big Silver Creek on the way to Bassi Falls. Limited Parking.

14E14 South Fork 3.1 S HE 13N84 Scenic views of South Fork Rubicon Canyon and Crystal Range. Goes to confluence of Rubicon Rivers.

14E21 Gerle 1 E HB Ice House Trail parallels Gerle Creek between Angel Creek picnic area and Gerle Creek campground.

14E23 Summer Harvest 1 E HB Gerle Cr. Picnic Interpretive trail from picnic area along west shore of Gerle Reservoir.

16E30 Loon Lk South Shore 6.2 M HEB Loon Lake CG Trail parallels the lake shore then climbs over saddle into Desolation Wilderness. Wilderness permit required.

Van Vleck

Area

13N22

15E21 Highland 3.2 S HE Cheese Camp Trail follows road to weather station then goes toward Tells Peak ending at Forni Lake. Wilderness permit req.

15E08 Red Peak 10.4 S HE Highland Trail Trail splits to right at 0.4 mile and goes to Lake No. 3, Lake No. 5, and Barrett Lake. Wilderness permit required.

15E23 Loon Lake 4.5 M HEB Highland Trail Trail splits to left at 0.5 mile and goes along the north fence of Van Vleck meadow, north to Loon Lake. 

15E22 Shadow Lake 2 M HB Highland Trail Trail splits off 0.8 mile at first main drainage and continues northeast to Shadow Lake. 

15E19 Bassi Loop 4.6 M HE Van Vleck TH Trail heads south to Bassi Fork, curves northeast until connects with Red Peak trail, then left to Highland Trail.

15E20 Sun Rock 2 E HEB Bassi Loop Trail splits off 0.7 mile and head west to base of Sun Rock.

16E11 Two Peaks 5.6 M HE Bassi Loop Trail splits to right near Bassi Fork follows north edge of meadow then climbs past northeast side of Two Peaks.

Wrights

Lake Area

16E13 Lyons 5.6 EM HE Wrights Lake Rd Follow road east paralleling Lyons Creek through forest to Lyons and Sylvia Lakes. Wilderness permit required.

16E14 Bloodsucker 2.3 EM HEB Equestrian CG South along trail and road climbing until it intersects with the Lyons Trail about 1.5 mi from Lyons Trailhead.

15E12 Windmiller 3 M HEB Parking Area Across from overflow parking area the trail heads west on ridge top then to Jones Fork drainage. Scenic views.

16E12 Twin Lakes 3.4 M HE Twin Lakes TH Follow signs around southeast side of lake heading east to Twin Lakes. Wilderness permit required.

16E18 Meadow Loop 1 E HEB Twin Lakes TH Follow Twin Lakes trail to Twin Tie junction, cross bridge to left onto Meadow trail. Follow trail back to trailhead.

16E08 Rockbound 7.8 M HE Rockbound TH Trail is a main corridor east into Desolation Wilderness. Wilderness permit required.

16E15 Beauty Lake 0.5 E HEB Rockbound Trail Trail splits off 0.5 mi. and goes to Beauty Lake. Return can make a loop following trail to Wrights lake.

16E17 Twin Lakes Tie 0.8 E HEB Rockbound Trail Trail splits right at 0.25 mi. east of Beauty Lake heading back toward Wrights lake, Old Corral Loop, Meadow Trail.

Highway 50 

Corridor

13E19 Pony Express Trail 38 E HEB Highway 50 Several access points for this Historic Trail. See article under Where to Go.

17E75 Cody Lake 0.5 E HEB Packsaddle Pass A fairly east hike to this glacier formed lake.

17E12 Lovers Leap 2.5 M HEB Strawberry Cyn. Trail leads to the top of Lovers Leap for a great view of the South Fork American River canyon. Allows motorcycle.

17E25 Pyramid Creek Loop 1.7 M H Highway 50 Loop trail before wilderness boundary offers views of the American River canyon, Lovers Leap, waterfalls, and it 

is a Special Geologic Interest Area. Wilderness permit required if crossing boundary.

17E14 Sayles Canyon 4.5 M HEB 17E13 Trail is a moderate climb back and forth across Sayles Creek leading up through Round Meadows to the PCT.

17E13 Bryan Meadows 3 M HEB Sayles Cyn Trail Trail splits off, continues east passing through beautiful stands of lodgepole pine and mountain hemlock to PCT.

Pacific Crest Trail 20 S HE Highway 50/88 National Trail. Can access Eldorado NF segments at Carson Pass, Meiss, Echo Summit, and Barker Pass trailheads.

Silver Fork

Road

17E51 Caples Creek 4 M HEB Caples TH Follows along north side of Caples Creek through virgin forest and meadows. Motorcycles allowed.

17E52 Government Mdws 0.5 EM HEB Caples Trail Short trail leads around several lush meadows and ends at Caples Creek. Motorcycles allowed.

17E71 Old Silver Lake 1.5 M HEB Caples Trail Trail goes through mixed stands of virgin pine and fir to the ridge top to meet the Silver Fork trail.

17E20 Silver Fork 3 M HEB Caples Trail Trail follows Silver Creek down to quiet pools and then climbs to meet Old Silver trail. Motorcycles allowed.

17E17 Buck Pasture 3 M HEB Cody Meadows Trail leads down into Buck Pasture and along the north ridge of scenic Caples Creek drainage. Allows motorcycles

Sly Park

Road

13E04 Cedar Park Trail 1.2 E H Sly Park Paved trail available year round. Great for individuals with disabilities. Pets must be leashed.

13E08 Fleming Meadow Tr 8.8 M HEB MET Mixture of roads and trails great for early spring and fall use as at 3,800 feet in elevation. Pets must be leashed.

14E15 Trestle Trail 1.2 E HEB Capps Crossing From 9N36 this trail follows a railroad grade to Steely Creek passing three collapsed trestles or railroad bridges.

Highway 88 

Corridor

17E57 Shealor Lake 1.5 MS HE Shealor TH Climbs through open granite and timber to ridge before dropping down to lake. Great views of Silver Lake.

17E21 Horse Canyon 8.6 S HEB Horse Cyn TH Trail travels through forest with unique volcanic rock outcroppings. Views of Thimble Peak, Silver Lake, and midsummer wildflowers are gorgeous. Last 3 miles in Mokelumne Wilderness. Caution: motorcycles allowed on first 

part of trail, for experienced riders only.

17E22 Thunder Mtn. Loop 10.3 MS HEB Thunder Mtn TH

Horse Cyn TH

3.3 miles of trail is north of Highway 88 includes dramatic view from Castle Point. Southern portion includes 2.3 

miles of Horse Canyon trail before connecting off to Thunder Mountain Trail.

17E46 Lake Margaret 2.5 M HEB Lk. Margaret TH The mid-summer wildflowers and the changing color of the aspens in the fall are worth the trip.

17E16 Little Round Top 2.5 M HEB Schneider Camp The trail leads around Little Round Top through stands of lodgepole and whitebark pine to junction with PCT.

PCT - Showers Lake 4 M HE Schneider Camp Trail climbs to ridge over Meiss Lake basin and provides excellent views of Lake Tahoe in the distance.

PCT - Meiss Lake 4 M HE Meiss TH Follow PCT trail to the ridge and then the lake to experience spectacular views and wildflower displays.

Silver Lake

17E19 Allen Camp 2 S HEB Plasse’s Resort Trail climbs through forested and rocky slopes until it joins with the Mud Lake road Near Allen Camp.

17E23 Granite Lk/Hidden Lk 1-5 MS HEB Granite TH Take road by Kit Carson Resort to trailhead. Trail ascends and crosses Squaw Creek to Granite Lake then another 

3 miles to Hidden lake. Trail forks to Plasse’s Resort for a great 5.3 mi. loop. From Hidden Lake can also take a trail 

to connect with Allen Camp trail and return down to Plasses for another loop.

Difficulty: E = Easy M = Moderate S = Strenuous Use Type: H = Hiking E = Equestrian/Horse Riding B = Biking

Where To Go - Trails

4 Eldorado National Forest Visitor Guide
Pacific Crest Trail

The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail 

extends 2,650 miles from Canada to Mexico, 

passing through 23 National Forests and 

seven National Parks. The trail enters the 

Eldorado National Forest in the Desolation 

Wilderness and winds its way to the 

forest’s southeastern tip, where it meets the 

Stanislaus and Toiyabe National Forests.

Dru Barner Park

At 3,000 feet in elevation, Dru Barner is 

unique on this forest as it offers yearround camping and equestrian use. Trails 

feed right out of the campground into the 

surrounding forest. This facility is seven 

miles east of Georgetown. Turn left on 

Bottlehill Bypass Road and go 1.5 miles on 

the paved road to the park.

Union Valley Bike Trail and Boat-In 

Campgrounds

The longer section (5.8 miles) runs between 

Jones Fork campground and Wench Creek 

campground, while the shorter segment 

(0.8 miles) connects Yellowjacket and Wolf 

Creek campgrounds. Access to Lone Rock 

and Azalea Cove campgrounds is by foot, 

bike or boat. As you travel the paved trail 

you will find beautiful views of Union Valley 

Reservoir and the surrounding forest. 

Interpretive signs along the trail tell the 

story of the use and development of water 

resources in Union Valley.

Wilderness Areas 

Desolation Wilderness 

and Mokelumne 

Wilderness are two 

of the many beautiful 

areas of public land 

which are designated by Congress to be as 

free as possible from the impact of human 

use. Much of the pleasures of venturing 

into wilderness come from the lack of 

“civilized intrusions”- no generators, motors, 

televisions, or buildings mar the solitude. 

No motorized vehicles or mechanical 

equipment are allowed in any wilderness. 

You may travel by foot or horseback, and use 

packstock. Trails are kept to a minimum.

Overnight permits are required in both 

Wilderness areas. A quota system is in 

effect beginning on Memorial Weekend 

through September for Desolation. A fee 

is required in Desolation for an overnight 

permit; day use permits are free. Day use 

permits are not required in the Mokelumne 

Wilderness. Campfires are not allowed in 

Desolation Wilderness and areas of the 

Mokelumne Wilderness. Campstoves are 

permitted. Group size is limited to 12 people 

for Desolation and 8 people overnight for 

Mokelumne Wilderness.

Sno-Park Permit 

Sno-Parks are snow-cleared parking lots, 

with sanitation facilities, that provide direct 

access to popular cross country ski trails, 

snowmobile routes, and snow play areas. 

This is a California Department of Parks and 

Recreation program. $5.00 day, November 1 

to May 30.

Shot Rock Vista / Silver Lake 

Overlook / Carson Emigrant Trail

Intending to return to the Mormon 

settlements in the Great Salt Lake Valley 

after the war with Mexico, forty-five men 

and a woman set out in 1848 with wagons, 

mules, and horses, working their way 

up the ridge between the American and 

Mokelumne rivers. From the Placerville/

Pleasant Valley area their course charted 

east to Sly Park reservoir, along Mormon 

Emigrant Trail, crossing what is now 

Highway 88 and onto the ridges south 

and east of Silver Lake, over West Pass, 

through the valley where Caples Lake now 

lies, and on over Carson Pass. From there 

they swung northeast, joining the already 

established California Trail leading over 

Donner Summit. Thus, the Mormon 

company forged 170 miles of new trail that 

would become the most popular emigrant 

route into California and is now part of the 

California National Historic Trail. Today 

you will find a commemorative marker at 

the Silver Lake Overlook and a view of the 

valley at Shot Rock Vista.

Caples Creek Non-Motorized Trail 

System

The Caples Creek Trailhead is located on 

Silverfork Road and provides access to 

approximately 10 miles of equestrian and 

hiking trails on the Placerville Ranger 

District. Facilities at the trailhead include 

1 vault toilet and parking spaces large 

enough for horse trailers. An equestrian 

camp is located approximately 1⁄4 mile 

south of the trailhead along Silverfork 

road and provides additional parking for 

larger vehicles. 

Carson Pass National Scenic Byway

Stretching from the Sacramento Valley in 

California to the Carson Valley in Nevada, 

this 58-mile byway of Highway 88 winds 

its way through the western slope of the 

Sierra Nevada, reaches the summit at 

Carson Pass, and ends up on the eastern 

slope of the Sierra Nevada. One of the 

most visually dramatic of the trans-Sierra 

highways in California, you will witness 

views of ragged volcanic skylines, cool 

green meadows, mountain lakes framed 

by timber-covered slopes, adventure-filled 

rock valleys, and distant mountain peaks. 

Outdoor lovers can go camping, boating, 

or fishing at one of the many lakes 

and recreation areas along this route. 

Winter recreation is just as fantastic: try 

snowmobiling, sledding, cross-country or 

downhill skiing.

Where To Go - Highlights

Campers in Dru Barner. FS Photo.

Highway 88 in the fall. FS Photo.

Pony Express Trail

Prior to 1851, mail from the United 

States was delivered to Gold Rush 

communities by clipper ship, or by 

steamship through Panama, then 

by mule across the isthmus, and by 

steamer to San Francisco, a delivery 

lasting as much as 30 to 90 days. In 

1851, mail began to be delivered on 

an improved monthly basis from Salt 

Lake City. The desire for even faster 

mail delivery led to the establishment 

of the Pony Express, which brought 

mail to California in a mere 10 days by 

individual riders on horseback. Each 

rider covered between 30 and 100 

miles or more, changing mounts at least 

three times before turning the mail 

over to the next rider in the relay. 

Mail service by the 

Pony Express began 

in April of 1860 and 

terminated in October 

of 1861 when the 

Union Telegraph line 

was completed. 80 riders, including 

14-year-old William “Buffalo Bill” Cody, 

who made the record single run of 322 

miles, were employed to race between 

the 190 stations in all kinds of weather, 

across 120° F deserts and snow 

covered Sierra passes. 

On the Eldorado National 

Forest...

The Pony Express National Historic 

Trail was established in 1992 to 

preserve the trail and commemorate 

those who rode it. The portion of 

the Pony Express Trail that runs 

through the Eldorado National Forest 

is approximately 19 miles long and 

parallels Highway 50 through the South 

Fork of the American River watershed. 

The trail is open to equestrians, 

bicyclists and hikers. Motorized use is 

not allowed. 

Access Points: Echo Summit, 

Wrights Lake Road, Webber Mill 

Rd., Peavine Ridge Road and at 

the end of Bryan Meadow Road 

(11N09A) near the entrance to 

Sierra At Tahoe Ski Area. 

 Eldorado National Forest Visitor Guide 5
Traveling In The Forest 

In 2008, roads and trails on the Eldorado were designated for 

wheeled motor vehicle travel. Vehicle travel off these designated 

roads and trails (cross-country travel) is prohibited. 

Motor Vehicle Use Map

The Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) is a free map available at any 

of the Eldorado National Forest offices and on our forest website. 

This map shows the roads and trails in the Eldorado National 

Forest that are designated for motor vehicle use, the type of 

vehicle that can be operated on the routes, and identifies which 

routes are restricted during the seasonal closure.

Travel Safety

Driving on mountain roads requires extra caution. Some dirt 

roads may narrow to one lane. There may be blind corners so 

travel slowly and be prepared to stop in half the sight distance. 

♦ Be sure to study a map before heading out. Call ahead for 

current local weather, road, and trail conditions (see back 

page for phone numbers).

♦ Plan for longer travel times. Steep and winding roads can 

only be traveled safely at low speeds. Use lower gears on 

steep roads.

♦ When two vehicles meet on a steep road where neither can 

pass, the vehicle facing downhill must yield the right-ofway by backing up until the vehicle going uphill can pass. 

The vehicle facing downhill has the best control of the 

vehicle when backing up.

♦ Always stay in your lane and watch for falling debris, other 

vehicles, and animals on the road.

♦ When sightseeing, use roadside pullout areas to allow 

others to pass.

♦ Gas stations and other services may not be available in 

remote areas. Come prepared with a full gas tank and 

extra food, water, clothing, tire chains, and any 

medications you may be using.

Off-Highway Vehicles

Many excellent off-road opportunities exist on 

National Forest lands for the OHV enthusiast. For 

our hard-core 4WDers the world reknown Rubicon 

Trail will test your skills. Free user guidelines and 

route maps are available at all Ranger Stations as 

well as online: www.fs.usda.gov/eldorado.

Rock Creek Recreational Trail System

Rock Creek includes 110 miles of trails of all difficulty levels open 

from spring through fall. During winter, selected trails may be 

open depending on weather. At 3,000 feet in elevation a portion 

of this trail system remains accessible in the winter. This system 

mixes motorcycles, equestrian, and biking use types so use caution.

Access

♦ Mace Mill Staging Area - From Georgetown drive 6 miles 

east on Wentworth Springs road. Turn right at the east 

entrance of the Balderston road (which makes a loop onto 

the Wentworth Spring road). Drive south for approximately 

one mile and turn left onto the Mace Mill road. Proceed 

approximately one and a half miles to the Mace Mill Staging 

Area. 

♦ Bald Mountain Staging Area - From Georgetown drive 

10.5 miles east on Wentworth Springs road. Turn right onto 

the Rock Creek North road (12N72 road). Drive south for 

approximately one half mile and turn right onto the Bald 

Mountain Lookout road (12N71). The road leading to the 

Bald Mountain Staging Area will be on the right almost 

immediately after.

Elkins Flat and Gold Note Motorized Trail Systems

Both trail systems are popular OHV recreation destinations 

located along the “North South road” (Forest Service road 10N83 or 

Primary Route 6)” which is accessed off of Mormon Emigrant Trail 

(MET). Elevation ranges from 4,000 to 6,000 feet so the trails may 

be under snow for part of the winter.

The main staging area for the Elkins Trail System provides access 

to approximately 48 miles of motorcycle and ATV trails. Just south 

of Elkins is the Gold Note Trail System offering 30 miles of trails 

and roads which interconnect with the Elkins system. 

Access 

♦ Via Highway 50 from Placerville - travel east 13.0 miles, 

turn right on Sly Park road and travel 5.0 miles, turn left 

on Mormon Emigrant Trail (just past Jenkinson Lake) and 

travel 10 miles, turn right on the North South road and 

travel 15 miles to reach Elkins Flat and the staging area. 

♦ Via Highway 88 from Jackson - travel east 27 miles, turn 

left onto Omo Ranch road, then 0.7 miles to the intersection 

with North-South road. There are several trailheads as you 

travel north along this road for access to different trails. 

Featured Trail Systems

Route Markers

Road or trail markers at the beginning of routes will help you to 

locate yourself on the map and to determine if motor vehicle use is 

allowed on that route. Paved roads are legal to drive on as long as the 

vehicle is licensed to operate on a highway. (See photos).

Seasonal Closure

All dirt roads and trails are closed to motor vehicle use between 

January 1 and March 31 except the Rock Creek area near Georgetown 

which has its own seasonal closure policy and procedures. The 

Seasonal Closure may be extended if roads or trails are wet and 

susceptible to damage. This closure is intended to protect water 

quality and prevent rutting and damage to these roads and trails. 

Approximately 600 miles of paved and gravel roads are not affected 

by the closure. 

Traveling

(Top) Forest Highway sign for paved roads. (Bottom left and right) Forest system road marker. Look 

for the symbols that indicate the vehicle types that area allowed on the trail. FS Photos.

6 Eldorado National Forest Visitor Guide
Outdoor Safety . . . It’s Everyone’s Responsibility

Whether touring in the backcountry or along the road, travel poses 

certain risks. You are responsible for educating yourself. In an 

emergency contact the local sheriff’s department by dialing 911.

♦ Have A Plan: Obtain a Map and do your research ahead of time.

♦ Reporting Party: Tell someone where you are going, when you 

expect to return, and what to do if you don’t. Cell phones rarely 

work well in the mountains; don’t rely on them. 

♦ Groups: It is a good idea to travel in groups of four so if someone 

is injured, one person can stay with the injured person, and the 

other two can travel for help.

♦ Hiking: Be sure to pick a trail that matches your experience 

and ability. Have the proper clothing; changes in the weather 

can happen rapidly. Wear good hiking boots, and break them in 

before your hike! Please remember to pack out what you pack 

in.

♦ Drowning Hazards: Be extra careful along rivers and streams; 

falling in is dangerous. Rocks are smooth and slippery. Swift 

and/or cold water rapidly sap your strength. Hidden rocks and 

debris can trap feet and arms. 

♦ Children: Monitor your children at all 

times. They move quick.

♦ TEN Essentials: Always carry plenty 

of water, food, map and compass, extra 

clothing, first aid kit, flashlight, whistle, 

fire starter, knife/tool, sunglasses, and 

sunscreen.

Altitude

The major cause of altitude sickness is going 

too high, too fast. At higher elevations, the 

air becomes “thinner,” which means you 

get less oxygen to breathe. Altitude sickness symptoms may include 

shortness of breath, nausea, heart palpitations, extreme thirst, 

weakness, headaches, and “tunnel vision.” If you experience any of 

these symptoms, slow down and drink water. If symptoms persist, 

proceed to a lower elevation, and seek medical attention.

Storms

Storms form quickly in the mountains. Bring clothing for all weather 

conditions: raincoats, jackets, fleece, or wool. Remember to pack coldweather survival gear in case you become stranded. Snow can occur 

year-round at higher elevations.

♦ Avoid afternoon summer storms by heading out early and 

getting off mountain peaks and high points before storms 

arrive.

♦ If you see dark clouds, lightning, or hear 

thunder, get inside a building or a vehicle. Do 

not stand under trees or in shallow caves. 

Avoid standing on ridge tops, rocks, in the 

water, or in open meadows. If you are caught 

in a lightning storm, remove your pack and 

crouch with your hands on your knees until the 

worst has passed.

♦ Use caution crossing dry streambeds and low areas; sudden 

storms may cause flash floods.

♦ Check the weather before heading out at www.weather. gov.

Hypothermia

Becoming too cold can lead to this life threatening condition at any time 

of year, especially if you fall into cold water. Hypothermia is possible 

even in midsummer and is caused when the body’s core temperature 

is lowered by cold and wind. It can happen even at temperatures of 50 

degrees Fahrenheit. Symptoms range from feeling extremely cold to 

sluggish behavior, slurred speech, or unconcern for the cold. If anyone 

in your group begins to show symptoms, act immediately to re-warm 

them. Get out of the wind and rain, remove wet clothing, build a fire, 

and give hot liquids only if they are conscious. Stay warm, dry, and well 

nourished; wool and some synthetic clothing help you stay warm even 

when wet. No cotton. It stays wet and will keep you cold.

Maps

♦ Pick-Up in person at Forest Offices.

♦ Online Purchase: www.nationalforestmapstore.com

♦ Avenza: http://www.avenza.com. Download PDF 

maps to your smartphone. 

♦ Forest Service Interactive Travel Online Map: 

http://apps.fs.fed.us/TravelAccess.

♦ Interactive Visitor Online Map: http://www.fs.fed.

us/ivm 

Wildlife

Please help keep wildlife “wild” by not approaching or feeding 

them. 

♦ Keep Your Distance - Use binoculars, spotting scopes, 

and telephoto lenses to minimize stress to animals 

and provide a safe viewing distance for you. If an 

animal approaches you, move away and maintain a safe 

distance.

♦ Bears - Always secure your food, and keep a clean 

camp.

♦ Insects - Use insect repellent during mosquito season. 

Check for wood ticks in the spring and early summer. 

Fleas on rodents can carry plague. Deer mice feces can 

carry Hantavirus.

♦ Pets - Leashing your pet protects the health and safety 

of your pet, visitors and wildlife. Leashes protect 

dogs from becoming lost and from hazards such as 

mountain lions.

If You Are Lost

If you get lost or become disoriented, stay calm and stay 

put! Stop and pay close attention to your surroundings and 

landmarks; relate this to your location on a map.

♦ Trust your map and compass, and do not walk 

aimlessly. If you are on a trail, don’t leave it.

♦ Stay put if it is nightfall, if you are injured, or if you are 

near exhaustion.

♦ Keeping warm is more important than finding food and 

water.

Dehydration / Drinking Water

The dry California air draws moisture out of the body in all 

temperatures. While traveling, you may be miles away from 

a clean water source. Water in streams and lakes may not be 

suitable for drinking even if it looks and tastes pure. Treated 

drinking water is available at many developed recreation 

areas. If you must drink water from a stream, boil or properly 

filter all free-flowing drinking water to kill Giardia and other 

parasites.

Poison Oak

Poison oak can be encountered up to 4,000 feet in elevation. 

Look for shiny green leaves in groups of three in spring and 

summer, red leaves with whitish berries in fall, and bare 

plants in winter. If you touch any part of the plant, wash skin 

and clothes right away.

Know Before You Go

 Eldorado National Forest Visitor Guide 7
Contact Information

Forest Supervisor’s

Office

100 Forni Road 

Placerville, CA 95667 

(530) 622-5061

Amador

Ranger District

26820 Silver Drive 

Pioneer, CA 95666 

(209) 295-4251

Georgetown

Ranger District

7600 Wentworth Springs Rd 

Georgetown, CA 95634 

(530) 333-4312

Pacific

Ranger District

7887 Highway 50 

Pollock Pines, CA 95726 

(530) 644-2349

Placerville

Ranger District

4260 Eight Mile Road 

Camino, CA 95709 

(530) 644-2324

 twitter.com/eldoradonf www.fs.usda.gov/eldorado www.facebook.com/eldoradonf

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Eldorado National Forest Interpretive Association

ENFIA offers information, maps, books and other items about the 

Forest at the Forest Service offices and ENFIA visitor stations. 

Proceeds from sales support visitor programs on the Eldorado 

National Forest. For more information on ENFIA, including 

volunteer opportunities, and to purchase materials online visit 

www.enfia.org.

Become A Forest Volunteer

What better way to help the land you love than to 

get personally involved? The Forest Service has 

a volunteer program that can put your skills and 

interests to work. Contact your nearest Forest 

Service office for more information.

Where To Go