This steep trail offers great, bird’s eye views of the confluence and American River, the Sacramento Valley to the west and the Sierras to the east. Its steep gradient offers a good aerobic workout, climbing 1,000 ft. in 1.2 miles. It follows a buried telephone cable on its ascent from the confluence area to the ridge and the Olmstead Loop. After reaching the ridge, the trail passes through open, rolling hills and meadows dominated by several species of oaks, and wildflowers in the spring. Limestone out-croppings at the top give the trail its name.

Andrew Lind, ARC’s newest volunteer hike leader, will lead this difficult 4.5-mile hike. Responsible teens+ welcome. Contact ARC to sign up and for meeting location (Confluence area). Suggested donation: $5/members, $10/non-members. [email protected] or 530-621-1224.