Accessible Features at South Yuba River SP
Accessible Features at California State Parks | South Yuba River SP | Definitions and Terms | Activity Descriptions
Overview
South Yuba River State Park includes portions of a 20-mile segment of the South Yuba River canyon between Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park and the Bridgeport covered bridge. The park offers day use areas, scenic vistas, and several architecturally different bridges spanning from the Gold Rush era to the mid-20th century. Access points to the park are located at Edwards Crossing, Purdon Crossing, Highway 49, and Bridgeport. The park headquarters is located off Highway 49 at 17660 Pleasant Valley Road in Penn Valley. Call (530) 432-2546 for more information.Trails
The Buttermilk Bend Trail is an ‘out-and-back’ accessible trail that is 0.70 miles each way that offers stunning views of the South Yuba River Canyon. Springtime wildflower hikes are popular between March and May. The surface is compacted soil. Some segments of the trail may be more challenging for some users. This trail is located high above the canyon with steep side slopes and rugged terrain. There are two armored crossings on the trail that water flows over during rain events that might be challenging for some users. The trail is generally flat at less than 5% slopes with intermittent sections between 5% to 8% and one section for 3 feet at 9%. Accessible parking is located at the trailhead and a non-flush accessible restroom is located in the lower parking lot.| Trail Name | Running Slope | Cross Slope | Trail Width | Trail Surface |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buttermilk Bend Trail | 3% Average | 3% Average | 4 FT Average | Soil |
| 9% Maximum | 5% Maximum | 3 FT Minimum |
Exhibits/Programs
The elegant Bridgeport covered bridge dates from the 1860s and is considered the longest surviving single span covered bridge in America. It is located on Pleasant Valley Road, about halfway between Highway 20 and Highway 49, just outside of French Corral. There are two accessible parking spaces in an adjacent lot, with one van accessible. Route from the parking lot to the bridge is generally accessible; surface is compacted aggregate. Route across the bridge utilizes a nonslip mat to cover gaps in the bridge decking and provide a wheelchair accessible experience. A generally accessible turnaround area is available on the opposite side of the bridge; surface is compacted aggregate.To request an update to this page, please contact the Accessibility Division at access@parks.ca.gov or (916) 445-8949.