EID Ditch - Hazel Valley

The El Dorado Irrigation District's main ditch transports water more than 20 miles from Kyburz to Pollock Pines (where it becomes the main canal on the other side of Forebay) for irrigation and power. This section features miles of raised narrow metal catwalks (see picture), with holes in the bottom that allow you to see the ground far below you. If you're afraid of heights, this is not the hike for you. There's always a hand rail on one side, but wearing a glove is strongly recommended to protect your hand from sharp joints and screws on the railings. Railings may also be hot after a day in the sun.

EID expressly does not maintain the ditch for recreational use, although all the EID employees we've encountered have been unofficially encouraging. Hike at your own risk and try not to fall into the water.

We'll go 80 minutes out, then 80 minutes back, however far that takes us (probably 6 or 7 miles).

To find the parking, take 50 to Hazel Valley Road (on your right if coming from the west). Take the left fork of Hazel Valley (that section loops so if you take the right fork you'll just have a longer drive) and follow it just under a mile to the parking, which is a big dirt area just on the far side of the ditch. If looking to carpool, see the comments.

Rules reminder:

• No dogs allowed.
• If you can't make it, please try to change your RSVP so that we aren't waiting for you. Even doing it a minute before start time helps.
• You hike at your own risk. We try to keep people from getting lost or injured, but you are ultimately responsible for yourself and knowing your limits.
• Any sort of bigotry (based on gender identity, race, religion, etc.) is unwelcome and would result in removal.