Lake Clementine Trail
Hike to the scenic Clementine Dam with stunning lake views. A moderate 3.5-4 mile trail perfect for nature lovers and families.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Lake Clementine Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to the scenic Clementine Dam with stunning lake views. A moderate 3.5-4 mile trail perfect for nature lovers and families.
"The Lake Clementine hike is a fantastic outdoor experience, perfect for those looking to enjoy nature and stunning views."
✅ Check Trail Status
Fires can cause closures. Always check ASRA website before you go! ⚠️
🅿️ Arrive Early for Parking
Trailhead parking is limited and can be hectic. Beat the crowds by arriving early, especially on weekends. 🚗
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 1,328 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Clementine Dam
End of the trail
A scenic destination offering stunning lake views and a great picnic spot. Perfect for photos and relaxation.
Lake Clementine Views
Along the trail
Breathtaking vistas of the turquoise lake and surrounding hills. Ideal for photography and soaking in nature's beauty.
River Access Points
Off the main trail
Opportunities to descend to the river, especially inviting during warmer months. A refreshing spot to explore.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Trail Status Before You Go
Parking and Crowds
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!
✅ Check Trail Status
Fires can cause closures. Always check ASRA website before you go! ⚠️
🅿️ Arrive Early for Parking
Trailhead parking is limited and can be hectic. Beat the crowds by arriving early, especially on weekends. 🚗
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?
Trails near Roseville / Auburn this weekend
I will be in this area on Sunday and I’m looking for a hike. I’ve reviewed past threads, but I’m concerned about finding a hike given the heat this weekend. Hoping to go around 4ish hours and moderately challenging. Could be one hike or linking two together. Anything with good…
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trail is mostly dirt with some rocky sections. Good hiking shoes are recommended for a comfortable trek. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Bring Your Camera
Stunning lake and landscape views make this hike perfect for photography enthusiasts. Capture the beauty! :camerawithflash:
North Fork Dam. Not technically Sacramento, but it’s a nice little hike from the bottom of Foresthill Bridge for any of my fellow Sacramentans in need of a little exercise.
I'm more familiar with this being called Lake Clementine Dam. Is that incorrect? Trailhead is off 49 just below Auburn, called the "Lake Clementine Trail." Easily findable on Google maps, was just there Friday!
Tips
from all over the internet
✅ Check Trail Status
Fires can cause closures. Always check ASRA website before you go! ⚠️
🅿️ Arrive Early for Parking
Trailhead parking is limited and can be hectic. Beat the crowds by arriving early, especially on weekends. 🚗
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trail is mostly dirt with some rocky sections. Good hiking shoes are recommended for a comfortable trek. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Bring Your Camera
Stunning lake and landscape views make this hike perfect for photography enthusiasts. Capture the beauty! :camerawithflash:
🧺 Picnic Spot at Dam
The base of the dam is a lovely picnic area. Enjoy your meal with beautiful views after your hike. :picnic_table:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Lake Clementine Trail for its beautiful lake views, moderate difficulty, and the scenic Clementine Dam. It's a popular spot for families and nature lovers seeking an outdoor escape. Some find parking hectic and the trail can get crowded, especially on weekends.
"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My family and I had a wonderful time hiking at Lake Clementine Trails! The walk along the trails was peaceful and not too difficult, making it perfect for all of us to enjoy together. We were able to take in the beautiful views of the lake and the dam, which were absolutely stunning. The fresh air, the sounds of nature, and the scenic wilderness made it a perfect outdoor escape. Highly recommend for anyone looking to spend some quality time with family and experience the beauty of nature!"
Satrese Stallworth
"Nice moderate hike to a dam and lake. Lots of people and parking was kind of hectic but we went at one o'clock. There were some bikers but I wouldn't recommend biking as there were just too many people hiking. 4.5 miles round trip. There are some opportunities to go down to the river which would look more inviting in the summer!"
Jahjahfue (Jahjahfue)
"Really great little hike out to Clementine Dam. The base of the dam is a really nice picnic spot, too, and few people go down there even though it's not hard to descend the trail that leads to the river. Definitely worth the hour-long walk!"
Philip F. DeCamargo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lake Clementine Trail is located in Auburn, California. Access is typically via the trailhead with limited parking. It's advisable to use GPS navigation to the trailhead.
Public transportation options directly to the trailhead are generally limited. Driving is the most common way to access the trail.
Specific directions can vary, but it's generally accessed from the Auburn area. Using a GPS app and searching for 'Lake Clementine Trailhead' is recommended.
The trailhead is usually marked, but parking can be a challenge. Following signs and using navigation apps will help you locate it.
Yes, recent fires have caused closures in the past. Always check the ASRA website for current trail status and road conditions before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, no specific ticket is required for hiking the Lake Clementine Trail itself. However, there might be parking fees or permits required depending on the specific area or season. It's best to check local regulations.
The trail is typically open during daylight hours. However, it's always a good idea to confirm specific hours of operation or any potential access restrictions with the managing authority, especially if visiting early or late.
While the trail itself may be free to access, parking areas might have associated fees. It's wise to have some cash or a card ready for potential parking charges.
Booking time slots is generally not required for this trail. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis for parking and access.
The most reliable source for trail closure information is the ASRA (American River Conservancy) website. They provide up-to-date alerts regarding fires or other access issues.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Lake Clementine Trail is generally considered a moderate hike, approximately 3.5 to 4 miles round trip. It's suitable for most fitness levels.
You'll experience breathtaking views of Lake Clementine, the surrounding hills, and the Clementine Dam. There are also opportunities to access the river.
Yes, there are shaded sections along the trail, but some parts are exposed to the sun. It's advisable to wear sun protection.
While some bikers use the trail, it can get crowded with hikers, making it less ideal for biking. It's primarily recommended for hiking.
Swimming directly in Lake Clementine might be restricted or not advisable due to water levels and currents. The river access points offer more opportunities for water enjoyment.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The views of Lake Clementine and the Clementine Dam are prime photo opportunities. Stop along the trail at scenic overlooks for stunning shots.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
The Clementine Dam itself is a significant landmark. The various viewpoints overlooking the lake offer diverse photographic subjects.
A camera or smartphone with good photo capabilities is essential. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscape shots and a polarizing filter to enhance the lake's colors.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's crucial to check with local authorities or the managing agency for any restrictions on drone operation before flying.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit