Old Flume Trail Trailhead

Overview

Between the towns of Placerville and Coloma along Highway 49, the Old Flume Trail offers access to the South Fork of the American River. The trail is wide and the terrain is not technically difficult as it heads down into the canyon from the parking lot. But the trail does drops rather steeply down an old existing road -- about 800 feet in less than a mile and leads to a quiet location just below Racehorse Bend rapid on the South Fork. Please note: It may only take you a half hour to get down the trail, but be prepared for a steep and much longer walk back up. Give yourself a couple hours and take plenty of water. What you need to know: Old Flume Trail is a Day-Use area only. No overnight camping. Closed to target shooting. Please avoid parking outside the fence along the roadway. Portions of this trail system border private property. Please respect the rights of private property owners by staying on designated routes at all times. Fireworks are prohibited. Fuelwood cutting and collection is prohibited. Helpful Links: Hiking on Public Lands E-Bikes on Public Lands Detailed topo map of Old Flume Trail History The Old Flume Trail crosses over a historic ditch which carried water from Chili Bar ten miles downstream to the town of Lotus. This flume was one of the largest ever built in El Dorado County at 153' high and 750' in length. The property is now managed by the BLM after the American River Conservancy (ARC) acquired a land grant from Richard and Arlene Wilkinson in 1991. Also VISIT: South Fork American River webpage Return To: BLM, Mother Lode Field Office