Guided Hikes
In the fall, winter and spring our staff and docents lead hikes in different areas of the park. These hikes vary greatly in lenght and intensity. The hikes focus on flora, fauna, or the history of the canyon. They are free, though a $10 day use fee applies in marked areas.
We recommend arriving early, dressing in layers, wearing sun protection, wearing comfortable walking shoes, and bringing plenty of water and snacks.
Newt Walk
- When: Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 9:00 AM
- Where: China Bar Entrance Parking Lot
- Hike Details: Shirland Canel trail, at State Parks’ China Bar / Maidu parking lot. On this walk we will learn more about Sierra Newts (California, fire belly), their habitat, toxicity, and breeding season. We will walk along the canal trail, approximately one half miles out and back. The newts can be observed in the ditch from the trail. The trail is fairly level with some rocks embedded. We will also offer an optional two-mile walk down the side of the canyon and back up on a paved road following the newt walk. All dogs must be on a leash and stay out of the water. No touching or capturing of the newts is allowed in State Parks. Rain cancels. Meet in the State Park China Bar entrance (along Maidu Drive) parking lot across from 490 Maidu Drive, in Auburn. In the Parking area there is a $10 parking fee or free along Maidu Drive. Terry Cook
Knickerbocker Creek Loop
- When: Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at 09:00 AM
- Where: Olmstead Loop Trailhead
- Hike Details: Knickerbocker Creek, Haul Rd, Salt Creek Loop, Olmstead Loop. Five miles, easy-moderate pace on rolling terrain. Our route through a mix of open oak woodland and shaded riparian areas north of Knickerbocker Creek includes broad views, spring sights, and evidence of past inhabitants. Sections of paved dam road, old ranch roads and narrow trails, some mud if it?s been wet. Meet by 9:00 am at the Olmstead Loop parking lot behind the fire station off Hwy 49 (7200 St Florian Dr, Cool). Parking $10 cash or find free nearby. Bring water, optional trail snack, shoes with good traction, essentials. Well-behaved dogs on leash OK. Rain cancels. No need to RSVP. Peggy Egli 530-718-0448
Confluence/Clementine Loop
- When: Friday March, 20, 2026 at 8:30 AM
- Where: Confluence Trail Parking Area
- Hike Details: Approximately 6.2 miles hike, easy/ moderate loop. About 4+ hours. Includes crossing old and new Foresthill Rds. Gradual climb about 900 ft. A couple of narrow trail sections. Beautiful views of the Canyon, American River and Lake Clementine. Come and join our Spring Equinox Hike. A wonderful nature hike, stunning views and bird sighting. Meet 8:30 am at the Confluence trailhead parking area. Right side on Old Foresthill Rd., past ranger kiosk and the old Foresthill bridge at the Confluence. Parking $10 cash/credit at the kiosk or Park Pass. Bring water, snacks, trail shoes and essentials. Friendly dogs on leash are welcome. Rain or poor air quality cancels. No need to RSVP. Lucy lucyl2rock@gmail.com
Interested in scheduling a guided hike for your group? Call the Auburn SRA interpretation office at (530) 863-8848
For more hike information, visit https://www.canyonkeepers.org/ or email joseph.shanahan@parks.ca.gov
Junior Cubs Program
The Junior Cubs Program is designed for ages 3-6 and typically includes story and craft. Join State Parks educators with your little ones for this free program.
- When: The 1st Saturday of each month 10:00-11:00 AM
- Where: Murphy House (501 El Dorado Street Auburn)
- Details: Programs include a nature based story, craft, sometimes music and a short walk in the garden. Programs will be held outdoors weather permitting otherwise they will be held indoors. No need to RSVP. Brought to you by Auburn SRA Interpretation and Education (530)863-8848
Interested in an off site program or would like a program on a different date? Contact the Auburn SRA Interpretation Office at (530)745-2202
School Groups
Auburn SRA offers K-12 programs for schools both in the classroom and in the park. If you are interested in scheduling a program or seeing a list of our current programs call the Auburn SRA Interpretation Office at (530) 745-2202. or fill out a Program Request and we will reach out to confirm.
Campfire Programs
During the Summer, Auburn SRA hosts campfire programs. Campfire programs are interactive educational programs that take place in the evening. Led by park staff and volunteers, campfire programs are thematic, interactive and theatrical and typically last one hour.
Interested in scheduling a campfire program for your group? Call the Auburn SRA Intperpretation Office at (530) 745-2202
