Sacramento, CA: Independence Trail

In a joint effort, California State Parks and Recreation and the non-profit Sequoya Challenge maintain the Independence Trail, which totals over 4 miles of wheelchair accessible pathways that skirt waterfalls, cliffs, and views of the South Yuba River.
This mapped route follows a half-mile section of wheelchair accessible trail and tacks on another mile (one-way) of hiking trail for a slightly longer, yet still easy-to-access hike. Begin by following the 5-foot-wide channel east from the Independence Trailhead (its main access point along CA 49). Within 0.3 mile, you’ll cross the first of 3 bridges on this section of the trail and pass through a rock arch, tracing the contours of the rugged hillside. The trail remains level as it passes a river overlook and continues east toward the end of the wheelchair accessible segment. From here, continue on a narrower and slightly more rugged trail to a picnic area and small pool on a tributary above the Yuba River.
Note: If you’re looking to add miles to this route, consider adding another out-and-back section on the West Independence Trail from the trailhead, or continuing north on the East Independence Trail which drops down to the river before joining the river to head downstream to the trailhead.
MORE INFO: Independence Trail
-Mapped by Melissa Stolasz

Trail Facts

• Distance: 4.8

Waypoints

IND001

Location: 39.292733, -121.095048

There is plenty of parking alongside US 49 near this main trailhead for the Independence Trail. There is also a wheelchair accessible restroom and information kiosk. Note: There are more than 2 miles of trail that extend westward from here as well.

IND002

Location: 39.293557, -121.093814

This well-maintained trail was originally an aqueduct built to transport water to hydraulic gold mines in Smartville. If it’s been raining, check trail conditions to ensure accessibility in the mud.

IND003

Location: 39.294961, -121.093047

Wide bridges, like this one, replaced the old wooden aqueducts.

IND004

Location: 39.295558, -121.092296

Look left for a great view of the Yuba River below the trail.

IND005

Location: 39.296214, -121.089817

Cross another bridge and stop for a photo op in the tunnel-like rock arch.

IND006

Location: 39.296443, -121.089072

This point (half a mile from the trailhead) marks the end of the wheelchair accessible path.

IND007

Location: 39.29928, -121.077311

This route ends at a tributary of the South Yuba River where there’s a small pool and a picnic table. Though this route backtracks from here, some people make a loop by heading west to the river and swimming or floating to the trailhead. Caution: The river can be very dangerous, even for strong swimmers, so check water conditions before considering that option.

Bridge on Independence Trail

Location: 39.294961, -121.092977

Narrow, rickety aqueducts were replaced by wide wooden bridges hugging cliffs high above the South Yuba River.

Trailhead Kiosk

Location: 39.292737, -121.095015

The map kiosk at the trailhead. This route follows the trail east.

Channel

Location: 39.294367, -121.093213

The wide, deep channel was once an aqueduct, but is now one of the country’s best wheelchair accessible wilderness trails.

Channel Edge

Location: 39.29528, -121.092693

River View

Location: 39.295558, -121.092226

An overlook provides a view of the river and the cars parked alongside CA 49.

Rock Tunnel

Location: 39.29621, -121.089731

One of the amazing things about this trail is the rugged and rocky terrain it traverses.

Long Bridge

Location: 39.296563, -121.087189

Another long bridge on the hillside above the river.

Poison Oak

Location: 39.297368, -121.084056

Keep an eye out for poison oak. It has three leaves with slightly scalloped edges.

Picnic Table

Location: 39.29932, -121.076996