Old Spenceville Road/Trail
Suitable for ambling by families of all ages or scurrying along the old wagon route, this historic road connects to several trails: Shingle Falls, North Valley, Dry Creek, and North Pitman Trails plus the Pitman Road. The trek can be delightful but the route mostly serves as access to some fun trails.
...can be delightful but the route mostly serves as access to some fun trails.
Suitable for ambling by families of all ages or scurrying along the old wagon route...
DESCRIPTION:
Distance east: 1.1 miles, West: 0.4 miles; Gentle; Elevations 340’-440’; Time ½ hour; Tread graveled, stage road.; Ok hiking, equestrian, mountain biking; Closed to all but administrative motorized vehicle traffic.
Along the route, Dry Creek and the rich riparian zone lie just below to the south and on the north oak forest; grassy hills climb the higher ridges. Seasonal flowers can be rewarding and the oaks are eye-candy year-round – especially as the buds first leaf out in the spring and turn rusty browns each fall. Even winters, when the naked limbs jut into the blue skies. During the long summer, vibrant green leaves provide comforting shade.
Access the trail from the Parking Area by crossing the gated bridge across Dry Creek. The route gently climbs by the closed copper mine that was the basis for the old town site. See Spenceville Wildlife Area for additional details on the history.
DIRECTIONS:
To Old Spenceville Road/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 and drive 1.8 miles to graveled Waldo Road. Follow south until cross the Waldo Bridge and then left again onto Spenceville Road. Trailhead parking and a small camping site, just before it, lies another 2.3 miles. Park near the old concrete bridge.
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 (Hammanton Road). After leaving the highway follow the directions above.
ACTIVITIES:
Hiking: Dayhikes (Rating: Good)
Nice gated, old road that serves as access to several great trails.
