Virginia Turnpike Loop Virginia Turnpike Loop From the Visitor's Center, cross over the road at the south end of the covered bridge and follow the trail downstream. After a few steps downward onto the trail a large pit appears on the left.
Closer examination reveals round or river rock around the sides.
These are the remnants of the bed of the ancient Yuba River which flowed during the Tertiary Period and originally brought placer gold to the area around 30 million years ago. As the trail progresses many more piles can be seen, particularly on the left. It is probably not a good idea to rummage around in these piles as the rattlesnakes are particularly fond of them, and posion oak is abundant in the area. There are several stretches of beach along the river, particularly near the covered bridge, that provide suitable picnic spots as one travels downstream to the Kentucky Creek confluence with the South Yuba River, including a platform with picnic table where the handicapped can enjoy the view. Shortly the trail turns left and follows Kentucky Creek upstream.