Four Ponds Trail
When the lighting is right to reflect the awesome blue skies above, I love to photograph the numerous ponds in the Wildlife Area. This trail bags four ponds in one modestly easy loop. They’re small, but the wildlife loves them. Then, just south of the eastern end of the trail as it intersects with the North Pittman Road (administrative use) is a great pond, Horseshoe, with couple of rustic picnic tables.
...reflect the awesome blue skies above, I love to photograph the numerous ponds in the Wildlife Area.
...can be accessed also from the Waldo Coral and Bunker Trail and the Old Spenceville Road/Trail.
DESCRIPTION:
1.2 miles, Moderate, Elevations: 430’-580’, Time: 45 minutes; Tread: single-track, good footing with modest amount of rock and roots; Equestrian and Hiking permitted.
To return to the trailhead, once you intersect with the North Pittman Road turn left (north) and follow the graveled road uphill for 0.9 miles. Total loop: 2.6 miles.
This trail couples readily with the Walsh Trail. In can be accessed also from the Waldo Coral and Bunker Trail and the Old Spenceville Road/Trail.
DIRECTIONS:
To Four Ponds Trail
From the east and Grass Valley: Drive 12.5 miles via Highway 20 west of the Highway 49/Highway 20 intersection in Grass Valley. Continue to the black-topped Beale Air Force Base road (Hammonton Road). Turn left (south) and drive 3.8 miles to Smartville Road. Turn left again (south) on the blacktopped road for approximately 1.1 miles. There is no formal trailhead. Park alongside the road and access the trail by climbing over the metal gate and follow the graveled North Pittman Road east for about 0.5 miles. Trail intersects from the right (south) and is recognizable by the view down the draw with several ponds.
From the west and Marysville: Follow Highway 20 towards Grass Valley and east as it climbs into the Sierra Foothills. After 15 miles turn right (south) onto the Beal Air Force Base road (Hammonton Road). After leaving the highway follow the directions above.
ACTIVITIES:
Equestrian Trail Riding (Rating: Best)
Makes a great outing when combined with adjacent trails.
Fishing (Rating: Best)
Horseshoe Pond is the second largest pond in the WA. It can be reached from either end of the North Pittman Road. From the Four Ponds Trailhead or the concrete bridge and parking area next to the Spenceville site.
Much of the pond's shoreline is surrounded by tall bulrushes and brush that makes casting a challenge. In the summer the growth within the pond can make snagging the underwater growth common. So be prepared for this type of fishing. Rubber worms work well as would bait with a cork. Perch and Bass are common.
Hiking: Dayhikes (Rating: Best)
Horseshoe Pond is just south of the trail junction with the North Pittman Road. This is good access as is the North Pittman Road from the concrete bridge parking and crossing of Dry Creek.
Fishing for bass and perch can be good as this is the second largest pond in the WA and seldom fished. The pond is often lined with brush and cattails so be prepared for this chalenge to the fishing.
Use lures that don't snag too frequently. Rubber worms work well. Or just bait and a cork. Be prepared to get your feet wet.
