Guided Hikes
In the fall, winter and spring our staff and docents lead hikes in different areas of the park. These hikes vary greatly in lenght and intensity. The hikes focus on flora, fauna, or the history of the canyon. They are free, though a $10 day use fee applies in marked areas.
We recommend arriving early, dressing in layers, wearing sun protection, wearing comfortable walking shoes, and bringing plenty of water and snacks.
Sheila Toner Memorial Hike
- When: RESCHEDULED DUE TO RAIN for Friday Oct 10, 2025 at 9:00 AM
- Where: Olmstead Loop Trailhead
- Hike Description: Ranch Rd, Turtle Pond, Secret Olmstead, Knickerbocker Creek. Four-mile loop, easy-moderate pace on oak-studded rolling terrain. Shorter loop options possible if needed (2-3 mi). On our route between the Salt Creek and Knickerbocker drainages we?ll see evidence of past residents, hope to see bluebirds, and learn how this area became part of Auburn SRA. This hike is in memory of past Canyon Keeper Sheila Toner who helped map, name, sign, and improve trails here. Optional lunch in Cool after the hike. Meet by 9:00 am at the Olmstead Loop parking lot behind the fire station off Hwy 49 (7200 St Florian Dr, Cool). Parking $10 cash or find free nearby. Bring water, essentials, shoes with good traction, trail snack. No dogs. Rain or AQI > 100 cancel. No need to RSVP.
Middle Fork Fall Views
- When: Friday, Oct 17, 2025 at 9:00 AM
- Where: Quarry Trail Parking Lot
- Details: Approximately 7 miles round trip from the trailhead to Browns Bar and back. About 4 hrs. Easy pace, minimal elevation change (~ 210?) on mostly wide, level trail. The terrain is gentle and undulating. Great views of the Middle Fork American River along this historic route of the gold rush era. Stop for snacks at the river before turning back. Great views, wildflowers and bird sighting. Meet at 9:00 am at Quarry trailhead parking area. Follow Hwy 49 S from Auburn, crossing the American River towards Cool. Turn left down the small dirt road ¼ mile south of the river crossing. Parking $10 cash or State Park pass at the trailhead (or cash/credit at Confluence kiosk on Old Foresthill Rd). Bring water, snacks, trail shoes and essentials. Friendly dogs on leash welcome. Rain or poor air quality cancels. No need to RSVP. lucyl2rock@gmail.com
Interested in scheduling a guided hike for your group? Call the Auburn SRA interpretation office at (530) 745-2202
For more hike information, visit https://www.canyonkeepers.org/ or email joseph.shanahan@parks.ca.gov
Junior Ranger Program
During the Summer, Auburn SRA hosts weekly Junior Ranger Programs. Junior Rangers is a free program designed for ages 7-12, but all ages are welcome to attend. Programs are led by park staff and docents and typically last 1-2 hours.
Summer 2025 Program: SIGN UP NOW
June Programs 09:00-10:30 AM at Auburn Sector Office
- June 7 - Native Gardening
- June 14 - Recreation Roundup
- June 21 - Rocks and Minerals
- June 28 - Junior River Guards
July Programs 09:00-10:30 AM at Oregon Hill Parking Lot
- July 5 - Plant Adaptations
- July 12 - Animal Adaptaions
- July 19 - Slow and Say Hello
- July 26 - Wilderness Preparedness
August Programs 09:00-10:30 AM at Mammoth Bar Staging Area
- August 2 - Bicycle safety and maintenance
- August 9 - History of Gold
- August 16 - Aquatic Environments
- August 23 - Fishing
Our mission is to provide educational experiences both in Auburn SRA and in the classroom, assisting educators with curriculum needs and offering activities that enable students to investigate, research, and participate in interactive learning. All programs are free, though regular day use fees apply.
Interested in an off season program for your group? Contact the Auburn SRA Interpretation Office at (530)745-2202
Junior Cubs Program
The Junior Cubs Program is designed for ages 3-6 and typically includes story and craft. Join State Parks educators with your little ones for this free program.
- When: The 1st Saturday of each month 10:00-11:00 AM
- Where: Murphy House (501 El Dorado Street Auburn)
- Details: Programs include a nature based story, craft, sometimes music and a short walk in the garden. Programs will be held outdoors weather permitting otherwise they will be held indoors. No need to RSVP. Brought to you by Auburn SRA Interpretation and Education (530)863-8848
Interested in an off site program or would like a program on a different date? Contact the Auburn SRA Interpretation Office at (530)745-2202
School Groups
Auburn SRA offers K-12 programs for schools both in the classroom and in the park. If you are interested in scheduling a program or seeing a list of our current programs call the Auburn SRA Interpretation Office at (530) 745-2202. or fill out a Program Request and we will reach out to confirm.
Campfire Programs
During the Summer, Auburn SRA hosts campfire programs. Campfire programs are interactive educational programs that take place in the evening. Led by park staff and volunteers, campfire programs are thematic, interactive and theatrical and typically last one hour.
Interested in scheduling a campfire program for your group? Call the Auburn SRA Intperpretation Office at (530) 745-2202
