Hike the Buttermilk Bend Trail in early spring when you’ll find yourself dodging butterflies as they dance through the air. Take in the sweeping views of the Yuba River, but don’t forget to appreciate the variety of wildflowers blooming at your feet. The rock benches and well-maintained trail provide perfect spots to pause and enjoy the scenery. While the parking area may be crowded, and you’ll likely share the trail with many others, the experience is worth it. Bring your dog, but be sure to keep them on a leash as you navigate this popular, high-traffic trail.
Embracing the trail’s popularity
This trail, once a local secret, has gained widespread popularity—social media is partly to blame. But don’t let that deter you; it’s still a must-do hike. After you’ve experienced the trail in its springtime glory, consider returning during quieter times: midweek, early in the morning, or late in the afternoon. Each season offers its own version of beauty here, and the trail’s charm never fades.
The river’s power and beauty
The sound of the Yuba River surging toward the sea, crashing against sun-bleached granite boulders, is reason enough to visit. As you follow the trail that hugs the hillside, each bend reveals a new perspective of the river—a gift for your eyes. If you’re lucky, you might spot a kayak gliding through the canyon, offering a sense of the river’s scale and power.
Hidden spots and trail highlights
Toward the end of the trail, you’ll find several volunteer paths leading down to the river. Some reveal small sandbars—perfect spots for a hot summer day. At the 1.25-mile mark, a sign clearly indicates the end of this mostly level and easy trail. There’s one gentle incline and a few narrow sections, so watch your step. The return trip offers just as much beauty, giving you a chance to take in the views from another angle.
Directions to Buttermilk Bend Trail
- From Interstate 80 East, take Highway 49 North to Grass Valley.
- Take the Highway 20 exit toward Penn Valley/Marysville.
- Turn right onto Pleasant Valley Road.
- Cross the modern bridge and park in the north parking lot. The fee is $5.00.
- Best times to visit: Early spring is peak season for butterflies and wildflowers, making it a perfect time to visit. If you want to avoid crowds, try midweek hikes, earl
- y mornings, or late afternoons. Each season brings new colors and views to enjoy.
- Wildlife and river views: Keep an eye out for kayakers navigating the river—it’s a reminder of the power and scale of the Yuba. The sandbars along the volunteer trails are great spots to cool off or have a picnic during summer.
- Have you hiked Buttermilk Bend Trail before? What’s your favorite
season or time of day to visit? Share your experiences and tag @MaryWestHikes on social
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 long-time 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.
