The Bureau of Reclamation invites the public to join a Park Ranger on one of many assorted hikes this fall to explore the diversity of nature and history around New Melones Lake.

Bring plenty of water and clothing appropriate for the weather. All hikes are weather permitting and free of charge; no reservations are needed.

Travel through history as you walk along the Norwegian Gulch trail with Ranger Kevin. Identify the path of the old Sierra Railroad, search for remains of a gold mining camp, and learn how to protect our Remnants of the Past.

•DIFFICULTY: This is a family-friendly hike, about 1 mile, easy, with a few short steep areas.

•INSTRUCTIONS: Meet at the New Melones Lake Visitor Center and Museum at 9 a.m.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009, also known as the “Recovery Act,” was passed by Congress in January and signed into law by President Obama in February. The ARRA funds are part of a stimulus package that is an important component of the President’s plan to jumpstart the economy, create or save jobs, and put a down payment on addressing the nation’s challenges. Reclamation secured a portion of these funds for use at New Melones Lake. Hike along with ARRA Project Coordinator Jerimy Munroe as he demonstrates the improvements this money is providing to our trail system. This program complements the formal program presented on Thursday, October 8, at the New Melones Lake Visitor Center & Museum at 7 p.m.

•DIFFICULTY: This is an easy 2-mile hike.

•INSTRUCTIONS: Meet at the Tuttletown Entrance Station at 9 a.m. Participants will receive a parking pass for the duration of the event. We will caravan down to the trailhead parking.
 
Park Ranger Leanne brings nearly 10 years of experience on this hike to Angels Creek. She has a vast wealth of knowledge about the local flora and fauna, the history of the Mother Lode, and the role of Reclamation in the management of New Melones Lake. She is the assistant to the Natural Resource Specialist and a master interpreter.

•DIFFICULTY: Participants can choose an easy 1-mile loop or a longer easy-to-moderate 2-3-mile trail.

•INSTRUCTIONS: Meet at the Glory Hole Entrance Station at 9 a.m. Participants will receive a parking pass for the duration of the event. We will caravan down to the trailhead parking.

Hike along with Ranger Hilary to discover the diverse plant communities along the Natural Bridges Trail. Learn how to identify the floral communities of Natural Bridges.

•DIFFICULTY: This is a moderate-to-strenuous downhill hike, 1.5 miles roundtrip. Participants may return uphill on their own.

•INSTRUCTIONS:   Meet at the Natural Bridges trailhead on Parrott’s Ferry Road. The ranger will post a temporary sign upon arrival. No dogs are allowed on the trail to Natural Bridges. Alternatively, participants are welcome to meet the ranger at the New Melones Lake Visitor Center and Museum, at 9 a.m., and follow the caravan.

Enjoy spectacular lake views as you walk along with Ranger Kevin. Discover the lives of the gold miners, including the hardships they endured and the glories they celebrated.

•DIFFICULTY: This is an easy 3-4-mile hike with an optional 0.5 to 1 mile loop.

•INSTRUCTIONS:   Meet at the Glory Hole Entrance Station at 9 a.m. Participants will receive a parking pass for the duration of the event. We will caravan down to the trailhead parking.