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Originally we set out to hike Brandy Creek Falls in Whiskeytown but the roads were damaged in the recent rain storms.  We stopped in at the Visitors Center to see what trails hadn't been washed.  We didn't have all day - we just wanted something that might lead to some awesome views and allow for a little bit of exercise. 

I'd been to the before and hiked to the El Dorado Mine stamp mill, but never past there.  

The Trailhead starts near the Tower House Historic District parking lot where you'll have to cross the footbridge and continue past the Historic Camden House along the water ditch trail.  

This is a link to the National Park Service Trail Guide for precise directions.

You'll see the resident barn.

Clear Creek TrailClear Creek Trail with Cambden barn

This is a wonderful place to take senior portraits, family photos and engagement photos.  If you are interested in booking a session at this location Click Here

Clear Creek TrailClear Creek Trail with Cambden barn

Clear Creak Trail HikeA little closer look at the Cambden Bar with the snowy Mountain behind

 Whiskeytown Trails are dog friendly. 

Dog Friendly Trail HikeClear Creek Trail allows dogs

Follow the dirt road past the Eldorado Mine:

I was able to find a little bit of history on the mine - Here  

El Dorado MineEl Dorado Mine, whiskeytown recreation Area  
 

El Dorado MineEl Dorado Mine along the Clear Creek Vista Trail

You'll likely see some local wildlife like this bird here...  I wish I could remember more of the names of the different types of birds.

You'll have a nice peaceful sound of the creek or water ditch along the way to the trail head.

Clear Creek FlowingFlowing Creek along the Clear Creek Vista Trail Clear Creek Trail Pink FlowerPink Flower, Clear Creek, Trail Hike  

Clear Creek Vista Trail SignClear Creek Vista Trail Sign

You'll follow the sign where the trail gets more narrow.

Clear Creek TrailNarrow, Clear Creek Trail Hike

Check out the size of this banana slug!

Clear Creek Trail - Banana SlugBanana Slug on the Clear Creek Trail

It is as big as my Phone!

Depending on the season you'll get to see lots of wildflowers along the way!  Follow this link to see  more Wild Flower Images 

WIldflowerWildflower, hike Clear Creek Trail Foliage Clear Creek TrailWild Plants Clear Creek Trail

And check out these trees!

How cool is that growth there on the tree... some kind of critter must live in there!

Odd Tree GrowthClear Creek Trail Hike

This perch (scary thought) would be a great place for a Mountain Lion to sneak attack!

Clear Creek Trail Perch in TreeClear Creek Trail Clear Creek Trail SunburstSunburst through the trees

You'll pass over some historic ore cart tracks used many many years ago.

And then you'll be rewarded with some pretty amazing views:

View of Clear Creek From AboveThe view of Clear Creek from High above

The trail flattens out pretty well after that and you can stroll along the trail enjoying the view or we also saw a couple people running the trail and Mountain Bikers as well.

The trail is open year round and used for Hiking and Biking.  Here is some trail Highlights if you're interested. 

Check out the map and options here:  Exploring in Whiskeytown.

Whiskeytown National Recreation area is full of beautiful trails and waterfalls.  I look forward to sharing more...

Don't forget to check out some of my other Landscape photos from other outdoor adventures.