As a born and raised Californian I can say that I’ve seen my fair share of the state. I’ve swam at many beaches and played in many parks. I’ve seen giant Redwoods on the coast and ridden most of the roller coasters in our state. Camping on the beach, walking though lava tubes, and snowboarding down mountains are all found memories I have. And now that I’m a mom I love to take my kids on these adventures with me. I want them to see all the beautiful, interesting, historical, and awe-inspiring sights and experiences that our state offers. That’s why I’m so excited to share this Hidden Falls Regional Park guide with your today. I’m also excited to be teaming up with some other California moms as we share some of our top family spots in the state.
about Hidden Falls Regional Park
Hidden Falls Regional Park is a 1,200 acre park with over 30 miles of trails. Currently, Placer County has plans to increase the trail network and make improvements to the park and that is ongoing. The trails are multiuse for walking, biking, and horseback riding. Dogs on leashes are also welcome, so if you have a four legged family member bring them along! I love that there are lots of looping trails so we can walk as long or short as we want. Our favorite trail is taking the South Legacy Way trail to the Whiskey Diggins Bridge. Then we cut over to either the North Legacy Way or Hidden Falls Access trail. Poppy trail is nice too and much more shaded. However, with its switch backs it adds about half a mile to the hike.
Hidden Falls Regional Park guide
I don’t remember how I first stumbled onto Hidden Falls Regional Park. It was shortly after we had moved back from Texas and I think it was one of my random “let’s pile into the car and go exploring so we can get to know our new town” excursions. I like to venture out while the husband is working to get the kids out of the house.
My kids especially love going in late summer or early fall. At this time the water levels are low and temperatures are high so we can get in the water. Note that you will not be able to get in the water at the base of the falls. However, there are other accessible areas where you can get in at your own discretion.
| Read: A California’s Mom Guide to the American River Confluence |
I highly recommend going to Hidden Falls Regional Park with your family if you’re ever in the Auburn, California area. It is a hidden gem (no pun intended) that the whole family will enjoy.
Hidden Falls Regional Park guide: tips for your visit:
- Look up directions to Hidden Falls beforehand. Most people do not have cell service in the area and it’s easy to get lost trying to find it.
- There are bathrooms at the parking lot as well as Porta-Potties located at different spots on the trails. The bathrooms can be seasonal so make sure to plan accordingly.
- There are water fountains at the parking lot but they are also seasonal so bring plenty of water!
- In the summer it gets quite hot and many trails are in full sun. This is another good reason to have plenty of water with you, but also sunscreen and other sun protection.
- If you have little ones you’ll want to either bring a stroller with good off-road capabilities or plan to baby wear. Some of the trails (like Hidden Falls Access trail) are fairly rocky and hard to maneuver with a regular stroller.
- Arrive in the morning, especially if it’s a weekend or holiday.
- There are lots of trail markers and signs scattered around the trails. However, I still recommend printing out a map beforehand. Alternatively, take a picture of the large map at the trailhead with your phone.
- I have found that snacks are great motivators for little ones who are getting tired of walking, wink wink. That being said, if you pack it in be prepared to pack it out, whether it’s trash or animal waste.
Be sure to head over to these other California moms and check out some of their favorite spots:
What’s one of your favorite California spots to go with your kids? Or where would you love to take your kids?
18 Responses to Hidden Falls Regional Park: guide from a California mom
This looks like a great place to explore!
We love nature hikes at local parks, state parks and wildlife refuges.
Looks absolutely beautiful.
Such a fun blog hop you ladies have going. Makes me want to pack my bags and head west!
We are so blessed to live in a state rich in natural beauty! Youve totally inspired me to visit some trails and do day hikes!
Thank you for including me in this blog hop, friend.
That looks like such a lovely place! If we are ever out in CA I’ll have to check it out.
What a fun place! This looks like the perfect place to take the kids!
This looks like such a great place! It reminds me of a little hike we have about 30 minutes from us called The Grotto.
This looks like a cool place to visit! Wish we lived closer!
What a fun place! I was up there at a wedding in Auburn in May last year and I had NO idea this place was even there! I’ll have to check it out next time I’m in Northern CA!
I’m a Cali mom too, and that looks awesome. I just took my kids exploring at a nearby park (post coming soon, LOL) and found it to be so beautiful because of all the rain we’ve been getting. SO FUN!!
I love visiting local parks. This one is gorgeous.
This place looks beautiful. I’ve just started looking into booking a trip to California just me and my oldest daughter for next year.
This is gorgeous! I”m also a Californian who loves hidden gems 🙂 Love these tips!
I live on the east coast. But, we love walking trails. We definitely want to get out to California at some point in the future. Thank you for this post.
This looks like an absolutely amazing place! I’m now familiar with the area, but if I ever end up out that way, I’d love to visit!
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