Day Hiker: Training Hill – A challenge for the adventurous hiker

With my 55th birthday approaching, I decided to tackle Training Hill in the Auburn State Recreation Area on a beautiful spring day – to prove to myself I can still roll out of bed and conquer a challenging trail. And challenging it is! A short but tough ascent Training Hill may be fewer than two miles long, but don't let that fool you. With an elevation gain of 1,052 feet in about a mile, this trail will test your stamina. Along the way, I was thrilled to spot shooting stars, manzanita and many other spring flowers in bloom. The view from the top is always a rewarding sight – snowcapped Sierra to the east and the coastal mountain range stretching to the southwest. Have you hiked Training Hill? Share your experience and tag #DayHikerCA! Finding the trailhead The trailhead isn't marked by a grand sign; it's simply a spot along Highway 49 on the El Dorado side of the bridge that separates Placer County from El Dorado County. This area, known as the Confluence, offers numerous trails. Gate #150, just downstream from the confluence of the North and Middle Forks of the American River, is the starting point for the Western States Trail. This trail challenges elite athletes to cover 100 miles from Palisades Tahoe to Auburn. While it's tempting to head right over the iconic No Hands Bridge toward Canyon Creek, I went left, uphill, to tackle Training Hill. The trail is well-marked, and if you're ever in doubt, remember: Uphill is the way. Any left turns will take you toward the town of Cool. Have you hiked any of the other trails in this area? Let me know which is your favorite. The climb: Embrace the challenge The climb is steep and relentless, with plenty of opportunities to stop and catch your breath as you take in the stunning views. Just when you think you've reached the summit, take a deep breath – there's still more trail to conquer. But every step is worth it. Reaching the top is a victory, and the panoramic views are a perfect reward for your effort. Tips for hiking Training Hill Parking: Find a spot along Highway 49 on the El Dorado side of the Confluence. Parking can be tricky, so arrive early to secure a spot. Trail advice: The trail is narrow and steep, so bring plenty of water and take breaks as needed. Hiking poles can be helpful for stability on the ascent. Best time to hike: Spring offers cooler temperatures and blooming wildflowers, making it the ideal time for this challenging climb. Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best lighting and the most peaceful experience. Directions to the trailhead From Auburn, take Highway 49 south. Cross the bridge that divides Placer and El Dorado counties. Look for parking along Highway 49 on the El Dorado side of the bridge. Head to Gate #150, located by the North Fork of the American River, just downstream from the Confluence. Plan your adventure Have you hiked Training Hill before? What's your favorite part of the climb? Share your photos and stories with @MaryWestHikes on social media. Other trails in the area: The Confluence offers a variety of trail options. If you're looking for a longer adventure, try the Western States Trail, or explore the paths leading to Canyon Creek. Mary West is the author of the book series Day Hiker – Gold Country Trail Guide (I, II, III and IV), all available on Amazon. The books compile her Day Hiker columns, sharing her longtime love for the outdoors and favorite hikes in Northern California's Gold Country and beyond. West received the 2017 and 2019 CRAFT Awards for Best Outdoor Column and the 2020 CRAFT Award for her second book in the series from the Outdoor Writers of California. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram for more trail inspiration.