South Yuba River State Park at Bridgeport
Details
- Point Defiance Trail
- 2.8 mile loop with about 600ft of elevation gain.
- Buttermilk Bend Trail
- 3 mile out and back with about 200ft of elevation gain
- Option of a bonus trail (with short 2mi drive on gravel/dirt road)
- 2-3 mile out and back
The Buttermilk Bend Trail is a gentle, out-and-back path renowned for its stunning spring wildflower displays. Stretching approximately 2.5 miles, this relatively flat trail hugs the hillsides above the South Yuba River, providing hikers with constant views of the turquoise waters and dramatic rock formations below. Because of its accessibility and seasonal docent-led tours, it is the most popular choice for families and casual walkers looking to experience the parkβs natural beauty without significant elevation gain.
In contrast, the Point Defiance Trail offers a more rugged and moderately challenging experience through a 2.8-mile loop. It starts off by walking along the longest single-span wooden covered bridge in the United States, stretching 233 feet. (Any gephyrophobiacs out there?) The path climbs through oak woodlands to a scenic vista point overlooking the confluence of the South Yuba River and Englebright Lake before descending toward sandy beaches and quiet picnic spots. While steeper than its neighbor, the trail rewards hikers with diverse terrain and a greater sense of solitude, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more traditional hiking workout paired with panoramic river views.
The optional bonus trail has a name (French Bar Trail?) but I can't find it or remember what it's called. It follows the Yuba river north. It starts on an abandoned road right at Rice's Crossing and eventually narrows out into single track. We should be able to view the damage from the recent Colgate Penstock rupture (we'll be on the opposite side of the river) along with some interesting historical structures and of course the Yuba river and wild flowers.
Carpool: "Gas money" and parking should be about $15. We'll park at the south lot (before the bridge).