Best attractions and places to see around Lake Of The Pines are found in Nevada County, California, an area characterized by its diverse landscapes. This region features a mix of natural waterways, including the American River Canyon, and accessible park areas. Visitors can explore various trails and viewpoints that showcase the local geology and forest environments. The area offers a range of outdoor activities for different interests.
Last updated: May 28, 2026
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Popular around Lake Of The Pines
Auburn District Regional Park has multi-use paved trails that circle a large pond. The park has all sorts of amenities, like picnic areas, sports fields, and restrooms.
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The Foresthill Divide Loop is a multiuse trail that is popular with hikers, runners and cyclists. From the trail, there are great views of Lake Clementine and both the North Fork and Middle Fork American Rivers.
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Foresthill Divide Loop, in the Auburn State Recreation Area, is a multi-use trail for hiking and biking. You'll encounter diverse landscapes, including pine and oak woodlands, as well as panoramic views of the American River Canyon.
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Beautiful trail that parallels the river. Keep an eye out for a short spur trail to Clark's Hole for a swim in the river. Be sure to bring plenty of water and avoid the hottest part of the day in summer because it can be sweltering.
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It is a reservoir located in the gorges of the North Fork American River Canyon.
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It's not often you can get eye level to a 155 foot tall dam, but at the edge of Lake Clementine you can. The North Fork Dam was designed so that the river would overflow its top. So if you're here in late winter or early spring, when the runoff is at its peak, the resulting man made waterfall can be quite impressive.
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The area around Lake Of The Pines, located in Nevada County, California, offers diverse natural features. You can explore the gorges of the North Fork American River Canyon, scenic rivers, and various forest environments. Highlights include the Clementine Trail which parallels the river, and the impressive North Fork Dam, where the river overflows its top, creating a man-made waterfall during peak runoff.
Yes, for family-friendly activities and accessible options, consider visiting the Pond at Auburn District Regional Park. This park features multi-use paved trails that circle a large pond, and it's noted as wheelchair accessible. It also provides amenities like picnic areas, sports fields, and restrooms, making it suitable for a day out with the family.
Popular hiking trails include the Clementine Trail, which offers a beautiful path alongside the river and opportunities for swimming at Clark's Hole. Another excellent option is the Foresthill Divide Loop in the Auburn State Recreation Area, known for its diverse landscapes, including pine and oak woodlands, and panoramic views of the American River Canyon.
For outdoor activities like hiking and enjoying the natural waterfalls, late winter or early spring is ideal. This is when the runoff is at its peak, making the overflow at the North Fork Dam particularly impressive. During summer, especially on trails like Clementine Trail, it can be sweltering, so it's best to avoid the hottest part of the day and bring plenty of water.
Yes, the area offers several scenic viewpoints. The Foresthill Divide Loop provides panoramic views of the American River Canyon. Additionally, another section of the Foresthill Divide Loop offers great views of Lake Clementine and both the North Fork and Middle Fork American Rivers.
Near Lake Of The Pines, you can find various cycling routes. For touring bicycles, options include the 'Weimar Crossroad to Yankee Jims loop' and 'Halsey Forebay loop from Meadow Vista'. Road cyclists can explore routes like 'Bear River loop from Bear River' or 'American River Canyon – Railhead Park loop from Meadow Vista'. You can find more details on these routes in the Cycling around Lake Of The Pines and Road Cycling Routes around Lake Of The Pines guides.
Yes, the Clementine Trail offers a short spur trail to Clark's Hole, which is a popular spot for swimming in the river. Remember to bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
The North Fork Dam is a man-made monument located at the edge of Lake Clementine. It's notable for its design, which allows the river to overflow its top. This creates an impressive man-made waterfall, particularly striking in late winter or early spring when river runoff is at its peak.
Yes, several trails are multi-use. The Foresthill Divide Loop is popular with hikers, runners, and cyclists. Similarly, the Pond at Auburn District Regional Park features multi-use paved trails that are suitable for walking, jogging, and cycling.
Trails in the area, such as the Foresthill Divide Loop, traverse diverse landscapes including pine and oak woodlands. You'll also encounter natural waterways, rivers, and gorges, offering a varied outdoor experience.
The Pond at Auburn District Regional Park offers a range of amenities for visitors. These include picnic areas, sports fields, and restrooms, in addition to its multi-use paved trails around the pond.


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