Several years ago BLM opened the more spacious Magnolia staging area 1.5 miles farther south down Hwy 49, directly across from Venizio Winery. But on busy weekends, both staging areas are filled to overflowing. Compounding the problem, Magnolia staging has had a rash of directional signs being stolen or defaced, leaving visitors unclear where to park.
Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park is located in Pilot Hill and contains 12 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, bird watching and other passive recreation. The borders of the Park follow the South Fork American River, Highway 49, Pedro Hill Road and private lands. Because of its varying terrain and beauty, the park has become increasingly popular.
BLM has done what they can with their existing staging areas and there are plans to expand parking in the future.