Painted Rock Trail

Dogs Unknown

Features River/Creek · Views

No parking at trailhead and rocky terrain at the end make this an option only for the resolute runner.

Runners will need to be dropped off at the start of the private road where the trail begins as there is no parking at the trailhead. This trail is best suited for those looking for a secluded excursion, and who aren't bothered by the constraints of being dropped off at the start.

From the drop off point, follow the private road for 1.7 miles until the singletrack begins - portions of the road, especially near the end, travel close to residences and runners are asked to respect the privacy of the residents.

From there, the Painted Rock Trail continues gradually through ponderosa pines and incense cedars for nearly two miles before it crosses the North Fork American River; crossing the river is a task that requires care, particularly when the water is running high. Over the next mile, the trail steepens slightly until it begins to climb the Sierra Crest.

A series of steep and rocky switchbacks brings the trail onto the crest, where it soon rendezvous with the Pacific Crest Trail ( PCT: Echo Lake to Highway 80 (Donner Summit)). From there, the nearest destination is Squaw Valley to the south.