Lake Clementine Trail: Complete Guide

The Lake Clementine Trail is the hike most Auburn locals send first-time visitors on, and for good reason: it follows the North Fork of the American River through the heart of the Auburn State Recreation Area to the base of the North Fork Dam, where the river spills over the spillway into a deep green reservoir. It is scenic, accessible, and—on a hot summer afternoon—it ends at one of the best swimming spots in the canyon.

The Basics

• Distance: roughly 7–8 miles round trip to the dam and back, out-and-back
• Elevation: gentle; the trail is an old road that follows the river grade
• Difficulty: easy to moderate, mostly flat with a long but steady walk
• Dogs: allowed on leash; this is a popular trail for dogs and trail runners

Getting There and Parking

The trail is reached from the Auburn–Foresthill Road just past the Foresthill Bridge, or from the Confluence area where Highway 49 meets the river below Auburn. Parking at the Confluence fills early on summer weekends, so arrive before mid-morning if you can. An Auburn State Recreation Area day-use fee applies at the staffed lots; bring cash or check the kiosk for current rates.

Best Times to Go

Spring is the trail at its finest: the river runs high and loud, the canyon walls are green, and wildflowers line the path. Summer brings the heat—canyon temperatures routinely climb into the 90s and beyond—so go early, carry more water than you think you need, and plan your turnaround at the dam for a swim. Fall offers cooler air and quieter trails, and even winter is walkable between storms.

What to Bring

• At least two liters of water per person in summer—there is no shade for long stretches
• Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
• Sturdy shoes; the old roadbed is rocky in places
• A swimsuit and towel if you plan to cool off at the dam

Treat the canyon's heat seriously. The walk in feels easy; the walk back out in full afternoon sun is where unprepared hikers get into trouble.

Done right, the Lake Clementine Trail is a half-day adventure that captures everything that makes the Auburn canyon special—moving water, big foothill scenery, and a payoff worth the walk.