Hoyt's Crossing: Enjoy canyon views, and understand clothing laws

The winter rains have swelled the Yuba River, making it well worth the trip to the Highway 49 bridge above Nevada City. Sitting alongside the raging river, surrounded by canyon views of white granite and evergreen trees, is an experience that embodies the beauty of the season. Hoyt's Crossing, Hoyt's Trail, and Hoyt's Extension provide stunning river views, with several opportunities to scurry down to the water's edge. Pull up a boulder, feel the warmth of the sun, and take in the sights and sounds of the river. Hoyt's Beach: Understanding the clothing-optional policy Hoyt's Beach is known as a clothing-optional beach, and you'll find signs clearly indicating this status. While some families may prefer to avoid the area, I want to share some insights based on State Parks' code enforcement: According to the South Yuba River State Park comprehensive management plan: "Nude Sunbathing ... Continue policy of enforcing public nudity laws at river crossings, developed sites, and where complaints are received." California's public nudity laws California Codes (Section 314-318.6): "Every person who willfully and lewdly, either: 1. Exposes his person, or the private parts thereof, in any public place, or in any place where there are present other persons to be offended or annoyed thereby; is guilty of a misdemeanor." Title 14 of the California Administrative Code (Section 4322): "All sections are misdemeanors which carry a maximum punishment of 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine." State Park Rangers operate under the "Cahill" policy, named after a former Parks Director: "Enforcement of nude sunbathing regulations within the State Park System shall be made only upon the complaint of a private citizen. Citations or arrests shall be made only after attempts are made to elicit voluntary compliance with the regulations." If you're comfortable with this aspect of the trail, I encourage you to explore this 3.2-mile out-and-back hike that offers gorgeous views of the Yuba River, its canyon walls, and impressive rock formations. Getting to Hoyt's Trail * Take Interstate 80 East and exit onto Highway 49 toward Grass Valley.* Follow Highway 49 into Nevada City, where it takes a left turn toward Downieville.* Continue down Highway 49 to the bottom of the canyon and turn right just before the bridge. There is ample parking and restrooms available at the south end of the footbridge. Hiking Hoyt's Trail As you cross the footbridge, enjoy the view of the river and canyon. The trailhead is located on the north side of the river, visible just upriver. The easy to moderate trail is well-maintained, with stair steps easing the ascent in the early portions. Ferns, moss and lichen flourish this time of year, making the trail lush and vibrant. The manzanita will soon bloom, showcasing pink bell-shaped blossoms. River views are constant on your right, and there are many "volunteer trails" offering access to swimming holes. At the 0.65-mile mark, you'll encounter a fork in the trail: Right: Leads to Hoyt's Crossing Nude Beach. Straight ahead: Continues up the hill along Hoyt's Extension Trail for 1.6 miles. The trail follows the hillside and is an excellent spot for a picnic atop a granite boulder. This is a popular trail, so expect to encounter other hikers. Personally, I prefer visiting when it's colder to increase my odds of solitude. Tips for your visit Best time to visit: The winter months offer powerful sights and sounds of the river, seasonal creeks and blankets of moss-covered wild mushrooms. It's an ideal time to visit when it's cold enough for people to keep their clothes on. Have you explored Hoyt's Trail or the nearby beaches? How do you feel about the clothing-optional status? Share your stories and photos with @MaryWestHikes! Trail advice: Bring sturdy shoes, plenty of water and perhaps a blanket for picnicking on the granite boulders. Mary West is the author of the book series Day Hiker – Gold Country Trail Guide (I, II, and III). 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, as well as 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.