The Deets
Location: Foresthill, CA
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3.4 miles
Exposure: Partial Sun
Bikes Allowed:Â Yes
Dog Friendly:Â Yes
Amenities
Parking: $5 – Limited
Restrooms: Yes/Plumbing
Doggie Bags:Â No
Seating:Â No
Trash:Â No
Drinking Water:Â YesÂ
Helpful Info
Directions
From I-80, take Iowa Hill Rd exit (Exit 133). Head east on Iowa Hill Rd for about 16 miles. The road is very windy and goes through steep terrain. It is paved the whole way but you will ask yourself, “Am I on the right road?” at least two times. Take the road until it ends at the parking area.
Current Weather: Foresthill, CA
Trail Conditions: USDA Forest Service
Best Time to Travel: Summer
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About this Hike
Sugar Pine Reservoir is a beautiful lake with clear water. Because of the elevation (3,200 ft), the water can be cooler than a lot of other reservoirs, but it is still very enjoyable on a hot day. The Joshua M. Hardt Memorial Trail takes you around the lake and if you get too hot, you’re always only steps away from a refreshing swim!
Trail Map
This “hike” is approximately 3.4 miles around the shore of Sugar Pine Reservoir. There is an elevation change of about 580 ft. during the entire hike.Â
Well Maintained Path
The trail is paved the entire way and is more of a leisurely nature walk with great places to stop, swim, fish, and take in the view.
Discovery Hike
The “Discovery Hike” is a one-mile section of the Memorial Trail. It is paved and accessible, and features interpretive signs along the way.
Swim on the Hike
Bring your bathing suit! The trail takes you around the entire shoreline and there are many nice places to stop and take a dip!
Facilities
There are restrooms and drinking water near the parking lot. There are also informative signs on the hike detailing the history and nature at Sugar Pine Reservoir.
Notes from the Dog
My humans didn’t want me to go with them here because I can’t sit still and they wanted a relax day. Instead I spent the whole day snuggling with my cat friend Ziggy.
Don’t Want to Bum You Out, But…
These are some things to consider when going on this hike. In no way should these things prevent you from going, I just wanted you let you know!
- The drive to Sugar Pine Reservoir is likely to be a problem for anyone prone to motion sickness. It is long and windy nearly the entire way. =(
- Parking spaces are limited and there is really no way to hike in. Get there early or you may find yourself waiting in the parking lot for a space to open up.
Additional Links
