Mumford Bar Trail
DESCRIPTION:
No motorized vehicles. Trail: Best hiking and equestrian trail down or up. Long, lots of switchbacks, but good grades and far fewer rocks to trip over. This trail links to American River Trail plus a non-maintained, brushy trail that climbs up the north side of the canyon. This abandoned trail is not recommended. Either return the way you came or turn upriver on the American River Trail. Mumford’s historic log cabin in the canyon has been restored to delay deterioration. Visit, don’t move in. Remember, as you pause to catch your breath on the way out, that in the mid-1800s Mumford would climb out just to attend Saturday night dances. Camping at the Trailhead on the Foresthill Divide Road: Undeveloped campsites, chemical toilet, fire ring, no water; you have to bring your own. Room for trailer parking plus hitching post available for stock.
| Miles | Elevation Range | Options |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 5380’-2680’ |
|
DIRECTIONS:
To Mumford Bar Trail
Topographic Maps: Westville, Duncan Peak. To reach Mumford Bar Trailhead travel 17 miles east on the Foresthill Divide Road and park at signed trailhead on left (north). The trailhead lies a couple of miles to the right (northeast) of (G) on the North Fork American River (West) Map. The trail initially follows an old mining road as it drops into the canyon. Continue down by following the trail sign where the road ends. Camping is allowed at trailhead.
ACTIVITIES:
Equestrian Trail Riding (Rating: Best)
Mumford Bar Trailhead: Limited trailer space and tie posts are available. Overnight camping is okay. This is the best access into the North Fork American Wild River plus links to American River Trail. Riders can double back at any point or continue to the Sailor Flat Trail and climb up that trail. But that requires spotting a vehicle there to get back via the Foresthill Divide Road to the Mumford Bar Trailhead. The ride would be terrific, the shuttle less so.
