WST-07 (Tevis), Poverty Bar - Hwy 49 Crossing/Cool
DESCRIPTION:
As in other segments, WST (Western States Trail) participants are racing west on their way to Auburn and hustle by Cool without stopping. Don’t make that mistake. Coffee, treats, and friendly restaurants are ready to help you renew your energy.
No bikes.
| Miles | Elevation Range | Options |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 1280’-640’ | Loop option: The Western States Trail (Tevis Cup) offers several options for loops which return you to where you began. The easiest link follows the Quarry Road Trail which quickly returns to Highway 49 near the Confluence. If you don’t have a vehicle arranged to meet you, consider climbing back up to Cool via the Western States Trail on the Quarry Bridge to Cool Segment. This requires crossing Highway 49. This is a doable loop for a short day hike, but you have reason to be proud of your accomplishment. Other links: By heading once you join the Quarry Road Trail and head downriver, links to climb up and out of the canyon can be made at Browns and Maine Bars Trails, and the American Canyon Trail. Browns and Main Bars Trails are the steepest climbs but each shorter than American Canyon. From each of these links you can turn right (west) and loop back on the Western States Trail (Runners). Each of these should be overnighters unless you’re practicing for the Western States 100-mile events. |
DIRECTIONS:
To WST-07 (Tevis), Poverty Bar - Hwy 49 Crossing/Cool
Topographic maps: Auburn.
Drive Highway 49 southeast from Auburn to Cool with its one stop light (C). About 0.25 mile before the stoplight turn right (west) on St. Florian Ct. Park in the spacious parking area west of (past) the fire station. Follow signs on the north side of the street around the northeastern segment of Olmstead Loop. After about 0.5 mile turn right at the connecting trail to access Western States Trail. Once you reach the Western States Trail turn right and drop down to Highway 49. After crossing Highway 49 (1.4 miles from Cool parking area), the Western States Trail drops rapidly to the Quarry Road Trail at Murderer’s Bar. Turn right and head upriver. You can take a dip along the way as it follows the Middle Fork from Murder’s Bar to Poverty Bar.
ACTIVITIES:
Equestrian Trail Riding (Rating: Best)
See Nearby Locations for neaby segments of the WST. This is a popular segment for riders coming out of Cool or even Auburn for riders doing a long day's ride.
Hiking: Dayhikes (Rating: Good)
This contains some great segments, but best done from other trails.
