December 18
Today’s hike is in hidden Falls regional Park located in Auburn. Driving here we left a heavy layer of fog and had a bright sunny skies however, as we dropped back down into the parking lot at the park we entered back into high level fog, resulting in an overcast sky. We have six of us hiking today. All the regular members of our group.
The trail starts off down hill. There is a large flock of turkey hens on the trail with us. They headed up the hill as we approached.
We soon reached the bottom of the switchbacks alongside a beautiful creek flowing well with the recent rains.
The moist atmosphere around the creek is producing some beautiful foliage. We have the green Toyon plant with the red berries. It is often known as the Christmas Berry.
Many of the rocks are covered with a vibrant green moss. The rocks are surrounded by ferns and dew covered grasses.
Soon we drop down to the main river flowing through the park. This was an area where gold mining was done years ago.
The trail leads to an overlook of the hidden falls. It is a beautiful viewing platform just above the river and waterfall. The water from these falls flows into the main river we were just alongside.
We double back and headed upstream of the main river to an attractively styled large bridge leading us to the other side of the river.
Another short side trail takes us to another scenic overlook of the bridge and river as it cascades through the valley.
After leaving the second overlook, we walked parallel to the river mid slope of the hillside. We have regular and beautiful views of the water below us.
We come to another small footbridge crossing a feeder stream.
The short distance later we come to another larger vehicle sized bridge two once again cross the river. This was a good place to stop for lunch.
After crossing this final bridge, we height through more oak foothills. I came across a few large mushrooms next to the trail.
At one point, we were able to look back across the river and see the first waterfall we had come to. due to the distance, it doesn’t photograph very well, but I think it shows up a little better in my video.
Midway through our hike, we had joked about the skies, remaining overcast, and that we would probably get full sun when we returned to the parking lot; and wouldn’t you know, our last quarter mile was indeed in full sun. I began to take a video showing my full shadow, but my phone battery died when I turned it on.
Today’s hike was 8.9 miles with only 682 feet of elevation change.
