CONFIDENCE TRAIL AREA (OLD SUGAR PINE RAIL RIGHT OF WAY)

This is actually a trail that was the old Sugar Pine railroad right of way and because of this it has a very gentle grade that is suitable for hikers of any ability. It is also a great place to take your mountain bike for a spin. Most of the land on either side of the trail is owned by Sierra Pacific Industries, a timber and lumber operation and as a result you may occasionally have some timbering activity in the area. The variety of species (I’ve photographed over 100+) in such a small area is really something. From the end nearest Twain Harte it is almost five miles if you decide to go all of the way to Lyons reservoir. A round trip hike of from 1 to 10 miles is always well rewarded from the middle of March through June. Depending on rain, temperatures, and snowfall the blooming may begin earlier and extend later with the peak normally in middle to late May. There is limited off road parking at the trailhead and a few spaces just as you turn off of Confidence road. The elevation here is about 4200 feet which adds to the plant diversity. With luck you may spot coyotes, mountain lions, deer, and other large mammals.

(Revised 12/10/06)