South Yuba River State Park
Trailhead: Off Pleasant Valley Road, upstream of Bridgeport, north side of river.

Where to park: North parking lot

Directions: From Grass Valley, west on Highway 20 to Penn Valley. Right (north) on Pleasant Valley Road, eight miles to Bridgeport.

Distance of hike: 1.25 miles each way

Degree of difficulty: 3. Fairly flat except for one 50-yard upslope.

Seasons: All year

Special features: A favorite wildflower hike in March, April and May. Offers nice views of the river canyon, access to many swimming holes. Literature available at the ranger station.

— Mike Smittle, park ranger

 For a printable map, click here.