Tired of snow, snowshoes, and heavy jackets? Do you want to see green grass and maybe even some gorgeous wildflowers? If so, hop into your car for an hour and a half drive to the Grass Valley/Nevada City area for a couple of short hikes through beautiful foothill country at South Yuba River State Park. The foothill wildflowers are now in bloom, the grass is green, and on a sunny day t-shirts are the dress attire for the day.Buttermilk Trail – This is a short, level, 2,3 mile out-and-back hike along and above the east bank of the South Yuba River. Springtime wildflowers are spectacular, and local park volunteers place small flower identification signs next to blooming flowers along the trail.
Point Defiance Trail – Another short, 2.5 mile loop trail starting in the same vicinity as the Buttermilk trail. It is a little more challenging, starting out with a slightly rolling, rocky section, and ultimately climbing a few hundred feet through oak woodland, away from the river. However, there are some amazing park-like areas that the trail crosses that will send your heart soaring.
So pick a time where you have all day, the weather forecast is for sunshine, and you want to exercise those legs. You can get additional information and driving directions by just searching the internet or CLICKING HERE for both of these trails.Happy spring hiking, Tom