South Yuba Independence Trail

This trail is one of northern California's very scenic trail and easiest hikes. The parking is free and the trail is only about 6 to 7 miles with very mild elevation gains so come along and let's hike :)

Here's the excerpts from Travel Blog

" The Independence Trail is built on the original water course of the 1856 Excelsior Ditch. This canal carried water from the South Yuba River to the hydraulic gold mines in Smartville about 25 miles away. The Excelsior Ditch is an ingeniously designed and constructed facility made up of a combination of earthen and rock walled ditches and wooden flumes.

Because the Ditch was designed to transport water, its nominal gradient makes it well suited for an easily accessible trail. From the beginning of the Independence Trail in 1978, Sequoya Challenge (a non-profit corporation) has constructed trail and facilities suitable for accommodating individuals with a broad range of physical challenges. In recent years, a partnership between Sequoya Challenge and California State Parks has facilitated preservation of historic resources, expansion of the trail, repair and replacement of worn-out structures, and increasing the level of accessibility of the trail. "

Trail Length: 5 mile(s)

Things to see

• the majestic Yuba River
• the Outhouse
• Fern Wall
• Water Flume
• Creek Canyon Bridge and the creek that flows to Yuba River