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An enjoyable hike with spectacular views of the Sierra Foothills and South Fork of the American River.


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Map Key

6.2

Miles

10.1

KM

Loop

1,231' 375 m

High

618' 188 m

Low

771' 235 m

Up

760' 232 m

Down

5%

Avg Grade (3°)

18%

Max Grade (10°)

Dogs Off-leash

Features Birding · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers

Overview

This hike is part of a great trail system; hikers should definitely plan to make a day out on the trails at Cronan Ranch which are open daily from sun up to sundown. Hikers will travel through oak woodland and along riverfront trails. Each season provides an interesting experience: green winter hills, colorful spring wildflowers, hot, golden summer hills and changing fall colors.

Need to Know

Poison oak, cougars, and rattlesnakes can be found in the area, so take caution when on trail. Due to the lack of shade, remember to bring plenty of water!

Description

This hike consists of groomed multi-use trails with sure footing and great rest stops. The trail is well marked, and you'll depart the Cronan Ranch trailhead following West Ridge Trail. Continue to the left at the juncture with the West Ravine Trail. After 2.3 miles, the trail intersects the South Fork; take a sharp left turn. At the next main intersection, take a right to parallel the American River until intersecting the East Ridge Trail. Multiple intersecting trails allow for shorter or longer days depending upon your level of adventure. Remember to bring plenty of water as the open space provides sparse coverage from the sun.

Contacts

Shared By:

Kristen Arendt with improvements by K'ris is Syversen

Trail Ratings

  4.3 from 22 votes

#720

Overall
  4.3 from 22 votes
5 Star
45%
4 Star
36%
3 Star
18%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#113

in California

#720

Overall
57 Views Last Month
13,985 Since Dec 14, 2016
Intermediate Intermediate

5%
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80%
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Photos

View from the West Ridge Trail
Apr 23, 2015 near Auburn…, CA
Jade my dog coming back to get me. Heading down to South Fork of the American River
Apr 23, 2015 near Auburn…, CA
West Ridge Trail - Cronan Ranch
Apr 17, 2015 near Auburn…, CA
California poppies in bloom on a nearby hillside.
Apr 4, 2021 near Auburn…, CA
About 1/4 way into the loop, overlooking the American River.
Feb 12, 2016 near Auburn…, CA

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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

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Check-Ins

Apr 1, 2023
Pablo Gonzalez
Feb 27, 2022
Nate Sovatha
May 2, 2021
Paola Denise
Jan 10, 2021
Vince Purcell
Dec 19, 2020
Kristina Wolf
Sep 12, 2020
Larry Dubuque
Apr 23, 2020
Taylor Smith
Oct 5, 2019
Michael Capelle
Mostly moderate — 3h 20m
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