Canyon Creek Trail - South Yuba River

Trail is the Arctic Mine primitive road and worth the hike. You’ll most likely have the canyon to yourself. Do not bother any of the mining structures and equipment. If water flow is high, you’ll get more than your feet wet crossing Canyon Creek; so best mid-summer through fall or even into winter on good days. On paper, the trail continues farther up canyon to Windy Point. Mostly the trail doesn’t exist anymore; don’t bother. Instead, head back to downtown Washington for refreshments.

To Canyon Creek Trail - South Yuba River

Topographic Maps: Blue Canyon, Graniteville. Park on the Maybert Road at the sign for the Golden Quartz Picnic Area. Walk upriver continuing on the Maybert Road that is now a 4WD road. Within ¼ mile there is a 4-way intersection with roads coming into the Maybert Road from the left and right. Turn up the one to the left (north) that has two primitive signs: "Posted Wildlife Area" hanging from a tree and a white sign "Dead End Road, Locked Gate Ahead." After climbing through a pleasant forest setting, the road will round the ridge and start up Canyon Creek. Stay on this primitive road and respect private property.