American River Confluence
A scenic confluence of American River forks offering challenging trails and refreshing river access, perfect for hikes and workouts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid weekend crowds
American River Confluence
Best Time
Avoid weekend crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic confluence of American River forks offering challenging trails and refreshing river access, perfect for hikes and workouts.
"Beautiful trail along the American river, great workout with refreshing river access."
👟 Bring Sturdy Shoes
Steep trails require good footwear. Essential for the Western States race routes. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Hydrate & Fuel Up
Carry plenty of water and high-energy snacks, especially for uphill sections. :water_wave:
Quick Facts
Rating
4.8 · 24 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
American River Trail
Along the American River
A refreshing hike with gradual climbs and river access. Perfect for cooling off after a workout.
Western States Endurance Run Trails
Intersections with Confluence Trail
Challenging, steep trails offering stunning views, part of a famous ultra-marathon route.
River Bank Access
Various points along the river
Get down to the river's edge to feel the cool water, but be mindful of high water flow.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Timing
Parking & Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Lake Clementine
Has anyone been to Lake Clementine up in Auburn lately? Thinking of doing a hike there. And any other tips or know before you go advise would be appreciated!
👟 Bring Sturdy Shoes
Steep trails require good footwear. Essential for the Western States race routes. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Hydrate & Fuel Up
Carry plenty of water and high-energy snacks, especially for uphill sections. :water_wave:
hiking with swimming
helloo! i’m looking for some hiking trails with swimming. nothing too crazy… no longer than a 2 mile hike… i’ve done gods bath before and would like something a easier and not as strenuous LOL
Lake Clementine
New California resident here with no clue how to guess about hiking conditions after all the rain - does anyone expect it’ll be dry enough to hike around Lake Clementine area this weekend?
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Day-use parking can fill up quickly on busy days. 🚗
🏞️ Explore Less Crowded Trails
Consider trails like Training Hill or Robie Point to escape the main crowds. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Bring Sturdy Shoes
Steep trails require good footwear. Essential for the Western States race routes. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Hydrate & Fuel Up
Carry plenty of water and high-energy snacks, especially for uphill sections. :water_wave:
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Day-use parking can fill up quickly on busy days. 🚗
🏞️ Explore Less Crowded Trails
Consider trails like Training Hill or Robie Point to escape the main crowds. :hiking_boot:
🌊 Check River Flow
Water levels can be high; be cautious if accessing the river bank. 🌊
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the beautiful river views and the refreshing access to the American River, making it ideal for cooling off. The challenging trails, including those from the Western States race, offer a great workout for fitness enthusiasts. However, some find the parking fees a bit high and note the limited availability of picnic facilities.
"This trail hooks up to many others that are steep with beautiful views. Several of the trails that intersect with this one are also part of the Western States Ultra race. If you decide to go uphill bring good shoes, water and high energy gels,"
Elizabeth Zima
"Confluence Trail – a great workout with a gradual climb along the American River. It was so refreshing to cool my feet in the river after the hike. Day-use parking is $10."
Ekaterina Machneva
"This place is very cute. Open to swimming. It is a park. So you pay the $15 for the beach. And then you can walk into the river. You have a parking spot. No tables for barbecue in."
Mercedes Sanchez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The American River Confluence is accessible via various trailheads. Many visitors start near the Auburn State Recreation Area. Driving is the most common way to reach the trailheads, with parking available at designated lots.
Public transportation options are limited for direct access to the trailheads. It's best to plan for driving or ride-sharing services.
Popular trailheads include those near the Clementine Trail and those offering access to Training Hill and Robie Point. The starting point opposite the Clementine Trail is often mentioned.
Roads can be marked closed due to landslides, as was the case for the Clementine Trail previously. Always check local advisories before your visit.
The American River Confluence is located in the Auburn area of California, where the North and Middle Forks of the American River meet.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is typically a day-use parking fee, often around $10-$15, depending on the specific lot.
Advance booking is generally not required for day-use parking. However, arriving early is recommended on busy days.
The area is generally open during daylight hours, but specific trailhead access and parking lot hours may vary. It's best to check with the Auburn State Recreation Area for precise times.
Yes, swimming is permitted in designated areas. Visitors can walk into the river from the beach area.
Access may be restricted due to weather conditions, such as landslides or high water flow. Always check for current advisories.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You'll find a variety of trails, from gradual climbs along the river to steep, challenging routes that are part of the Western States Ultra race. Trails can be narrow in places.
Absolutely! It's a popular spot for hiking, offering moderate to challenging routes with beautiful river views.
Picnic tables are available at some trailheads, but not necessarily along the entire trail or at the other end of the hike.
The terrain varies from gradual riverside paths to steep uphill climbs. Good hiking shoes are recommended.
It can get busy, especially on weekends. Visiting on weekdays or exploring less common trails can help avoid crowds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at the American River Confluence. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks.
While some areas have picnic tables, barbecue facilities are not explicitly mentioned. It's best to confirm with the park management.
The nearest towns, like Auburn, offer a range of restaurants and cafes if you plan to eat before or after your visit.
Delivery services are unlikely to reach the trailheads. Packing your own food is the most practical option.
High-energy snacks like gels, bars, and plenty of water are recommended for longer or more strenuous hikes.
📸 📸 Photography
The river banks, scenic overlooks along the steep trails, and the confluence itself offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Yes, but be mindful of narrow trails and other users. Stopping at designated points or wider sections is advisable.
Early morning or late afternoon light can provide dramatic scenery, especially with the river.
The meeting point of the river forks and the rugged terrain of the Western States race routes are iconic.
A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive river views, while a zoom lens is useful for details. Protect your gear from dust and water.
Social
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