Thanksgiving week is here — which means great food, family time, and (let’s be honest) more slices of pie than any of us planned for. It’s also one of the best times of year to get outside in Placer County. The air is crisp, the fall colors are still hanging on, and local trails are a perfect way to work up an appetite before the big meal or burn off the feast over the weekend.
Whether you’re looking for a mellow family walk or a more challenging hike, here are five of the best trails in Placer County to stretch your legs and enjoy the outdoors this Thanksgiving season.
1. Miners Ravine Trail (Roseville)
Roseville, CA
AllTrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/miners-ravine-trail
A local favorite for good reason. This mostly flat, paved greenbelt trail winds through tree-covered corridors and along portions of Miners Ravine Creek. At roughly 8 miles round trip (depending on your start point), it’s perfect for walkers, joggers, cyclists, and families looking for an easy outing before or after Thanksgiving dinner.
2. Hidden Falls Trail (Hidden Falls Regional Park • Auburn)
Near Auburn, CA
AllTrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/hidden-falls-trails
Offering rolling hills, oak woodlands, scenic bridges, and the iconic Hidden Falls waterfall, this 3–4-mile moderate hike is one of Placer County’s crown jewels. Expect a bit of a workout thanks to 400–500 ft of elevation gain. Note: Parking reservations are usually required on weekends and holidays.
3. Lake Clementine Trail (Auburn State Recreation Area)
Auburn, CA
AllTrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/clementine-trail-to-clarks-pool
This scenic trail offers canyon views and takes you along the river to a viewpoint near the Lake Clementine Dam spillway — one of the most dramatic sights in the Auburn State Recreation Area. At about 4.5 miles round trip with steady climbing, it’s the perfect calorie-burner before round two of leftovers.
4. Pioneer Express Trail (Folsom Lake State Recreation Area)
Beals Point • Granite Bay • Rattlesnake Bar
AllTrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/pioneer-express-trail
Stretching along the shoreline of Folsom Lake, this trail offers endless mileage options and peaceful lakeside scenery. You can start from several access points, including Beals Point, Granite Bay, and Rattlesnake Bar. Whether you want a casual stroll or a long endurance hike, this trail gives you room to pick your distance.
5. Sunset Whitney Recreation Area (Rocklin)
Rocklin, CA
AllTrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/sunset-whitney-west-outer-loop
A relaxed, scenic loop with paved paths, easy rolling terrain, and open views. Perfect for families, morning joggers, or anyone looking for a low-key walk after a big meal. Dogs love it too.
Get Outside and Enjoy Fall in Placer County
Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving dinner or recovering from it, these local trails offer a great way to enjoy the outdoors and make the most of this beautiful time of year. Placer County has some of the best fall hiking in Northern California — take advantage of it while the weather is perfect!
If you ever want a list of trails by neighborhood or need insights on local communities, I’m always happy to help.
Posted by Patrick Hake on
Leave A Comment