The Bear Yuba Land Trust has once again provided an exceptional outdoor experience with the Yuba Rim Trail. Located in Yuba County, the 2.3-mile trail climbs 750 feet to a view of the confluence of the North and Middle forks of the Yuba River. While it takes some effort to glimpse the river far below, the expansive canyon views are more than enough reward. This moderate hike begins near Dobbins, not far from Bullards Bar Reservoir and Dam.
Trailhead and getting started
The trailhead is across the street from an old quarry with ample parking. A large sign marks the entrance, identifying it as part of the Rice’s Crossing Preserve. To begin, head out behind the boulders and take in the canyon view on the left. The Yuba Rim Trail sign will be on the right—follow it into the woods for a shaded trek, ideal for summer hiking.
The trail experience
The initial section offers plenty of shade, making it a comfortable hike even on warmer days. The path passes through a cleared area beneath power lines before reentering denser woods. Soon, hikers cross a sturdy bridge over a creek and begin a climb with 10 switchbacks leading to an old logging road. The ascent may feel like the top has been reached more than once, but the trail continues, winding downhill along the canyon rim. A rocky outcropping rewards hikers with a sweeping view, particularly striking at sunset in winter months.
Flora, fauna and highlights
The elevation supports a mixed conifer forest that attracts numerous birds, making it a strong choice for bird watchers. The trail is also dog- and bike-friendly, appealing to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. Hikers should be aware the area is mountain lion and bear habitat. Staying alert, especially near dusk, is recommended. On a recent visit, a late start prompted a quicker pace and extra noise as daylight faded. During summer, snakes and poison oak are also common.
Directions to the trailhead•
Take Marysville Road off Highway 20.
• Look for the old quarry on the right; the trailhead is directly across on the left.
Tips for a safe hike•
Start early: Mornings offer cooler weather and avoid late-day wildlife encounters.
• Essentials: Bring water, sunscreen and bug spray. Trekking poles can help with switchbacks and elevation changes.
• Trail conditions: The route is well-maintained and marked, but poison oak and snakes may appear during warmer months.
Mary West is author of the book series Day Hiker – Gold Country Trail Guide I, II and III (second edition available on Amazon). The books are a collection of the Day Hiker columns where West shares her longtime love of the outdoors, favorite hikes in Northern California’s Gold Country and beyond. West was the recipient of the 2017 and 2019 Craft Award for Best Outdoor Column and the 2020 Craft Award for her second book in the Day Hiker series by the Outdoor Writers of California.
CLICK HERE to read the orginal article by Mary West and see her photos in the Mountain Democrat newspaper.
Trailhead and getting started
The trailhead is across the street from an old quarry with ample parking. A large sign marks the entrance, identifying it as part of the Rice’s Crossing Preserve. To begin, head out behind the boulders and take in the canyon view on the left. The Yuba Rim Trail sign will be on the right—follow it into the woods for a shaded trek, ideal for summer hiking.
The trail experience
The initial section offers plenty of shade, making it a comfortable hike even on warmer days. The path passes through a cleared area beneath power lines before reentering denser woods. Soon, hikers cross a sturdy bridge over a creek and begin a climb with 10 switchbacks leading to an old logging road. The ascent may feel like the top has been reached more than once, but the trail continues, winding downhill along the canyon rim. A rocky outcropping rewards hikers with a sweeping view, particularly striking at sunset in winter months.
Flora, fauna and highlights
The elevation supports a mixed conifer forest that attracts numerous birds, making it a strong choice for bird watchers. The trail is also dog- and bike-friendly, appealing to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. Hikers should be aware the area is mountain lion and bear habitat. Staying alert, especially near dusk, is recommended. On a recent visit, a late start prompted a quicker pace and extra noise as daylight faded. During summer, snakes and poison oak are also common.
Directions to the trailhead•
Take Marysville Road off Highway 20.
• Look for the old quarry on the right; the trailhead is directly across on the left.
Tips for a safe hike•
Start early: Mornings offer cooler weather and avoid late-day wildlife encounters.
• Essentials: Bring water, sunscreen and bug spray. Trekking poles can help with switchbacks and elevation changes.
• Trail conditions: The route is well-maintained and marked, but poison oak and snakes may appear during warmer months.
Mary West is author of the book series Day Hiker – Gold Country Trail Guide I, II and III (second edition available on Amazon). The books are a collection of the Day Hiker columns where West shares her longtime love of the outdoors, favorite hikes in Northern California’s Gold Country and beyond. West was the recipient of the 2017 and 2019 Craft Award for Best Outdoor Column and the 2020 Craft Award for her second book in the Day Hiker series by the Outdoor Writers of California.
CLICK HERE to read the orginal article by Mary West and see her photos in the Mountain Democrat newspaper.
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