Article written by: Brenan Greene
This post is the first of many to come in a series of walking, jogging, biking, hiking and horse trails around Folsom Lake. We wanted to start with a beginner level trail (Falcon Crest/ Monte Vista) that nearly any age level can navigate.
Falcon Crest Walking Trail is located just 3.1 miles down Salmon Falls Rd. from Green Valley and El Dorado Hills, Blvd. Falcon Crest (aka: Monte Vista) is a walking trail and horse trail that is excellent for all ages. From 4 years old and up, this is a great local walking trail near the Folsom/ El Dorado Hills area to take the family. There are also many local horse stables and tours that you can go on, and you can request that they take you here.
Falcon Crest is located in El Dorado County and part of the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area. Lets get into the details of this amazing walking, running and horse trail. Sorry, no bikes allowed… we still see some out there from time to time.
- Location: El Dorado Hills, CA (Salmon Falls Rd.)
- Phone: District Office 916-988-0205
- Web Site: Map of the trail http://www.parks.ca.gov/pages/21299/files/Trails_FolsomLake_Alt2.pdf
- Dogs: Allowed on leashed
- Snakes: Watch out for Rattlesnakes in this area (We saw a king snake today! – it was fast!)
- Fees: None
- Water: Potable water is available a short distance
- Restrooms: 2 port a pottys
- Picnic Tables: Multiple tables throughout the trail (heavy in one area where the water is located)
- The Views: AMAZING!!
- From Folsom, take Green Valley road towards El Dorado Hills
- Go past the Waterfall intersection (Cross over Francisco Dr.)
- Take a left on Salmon Falls Rd. (3.1 Miles down on Left)
Most of the trails (there are many) are single lanes that are considered moderate to easy. There are no huge drop-offs or cliffs on the trail; however, there are some areas that are somewhat steep (strollers will make it though – expect a workout). I would have to say kids around 3-4 years of age can make it through the trail. It all depends on how much your child likes the outdoors, if they do, they will have a blast!
The trail will lead you all the way to Brown’s Ravine (10 miles to Brown’s Ravine) has some great lake views. There are some additional routs that range from .5 miles and all the way up to 10 miles. There is something on the Falcon Crest Trail for every outdoor enthusiast. About 5-10 minutes from the trail head on the Monte Vista Trail North, there is a water trough and a drinking fountain. Sometimes it is clean, sometimes it is not. Use at your own risk.
We came across some bottles and trash, we just packed it up with us. Please be courteous and always pack your belongings so other people can enjoy the nature.
One of many local Trails around Folsom LakeThis walking trail is one of many in El Dorado County, Sacramento County and Placer County that have amazing views of Folsom Lake. If you are on a mission to hit every walking/ running trail like this one, you will be busy for awhile. If you have any questions about this trail, please leave your comments below and we will do our best to answer your questions. In future posts, we will be covering many other local trails in Folsom, Granite Bay, El Dorado Hills and many other cities in our amazing community.
Step by Step Around the Falcon Crest Walking TrailOnce you pull into the parking lot, you will see a gate on your left hand side and then an entrance to the Monte Vista Trail Head.
Throughout the trail, you will see amazing lake views. You can also hear the sounds of boats zooming along and waves crashing against the shore.
Again, this trail is a great local walking trail near Folsom (just a 20 minute drive up to Salmon Falls Road). This trail will actually take you all the way over to Browns Ravine if you are up for the hike but it is 10 miles. Bikes are not technically allowed on this trail but you will see them from time to time.
This trail is walked, ran and loved by many local residents of Folsom, El Dorado Hills, Granite Bay and beyond.
To see hundreds of local trail reviews, maps and information, select the LINKS tab above, go to Federal, State, County Parks & Trails.
To see the original article, go HERE.