Celebrating the Completion of the South Yuba River Trail Markers Project

The South Yuba River Citizens League (SYRCL) is thrilled to announce the successful completion of the Trail Markers project, a significant initiative aimed at enhancing visitor safety and navigation within the South Yuba River canyon. This extensive endeavor, which began in response to the increased visitor influx in 2020, has now concluded after months of dedicated effort by SYRCL staff, volunteers, and partners. 

Public education and Outreach continue this summer through SYRCL’s River Ambassador program and tabling events.

Trail Markers Project Overview 

The South Yuba River Trail Markers project was conceived to address the lack of signage and directional infrastructure along the extensive network of trails in the South Yuba River canyon. These trails, spanning State Park Land, BLM Land, Tahoe National Forest Land, and private properties, were often challenging to navigate, especially given the area’s limited cell service. The absence of clear markers made it difficult for visitors to orient themselves or guide emergency responders in case of an accident. 

To mitigate these challenges, SYRCL collaborated with Nevada County and various landowners to develop a comprehensive mile marker system and install signage from the town of Washington to Bridgeport Crossing within the South Yuba State Park. This initiative not only enhances wayfinding capabilities for new visitors but also aims to reduce response times for emergency services and ensure compliance with land use regulations. 

The installation process, which wrapped up recently, involved considerable effort and coordination. Over seven days, SYRCL staff, including Rose Ledford (SYRCL’s Science and Education Project Manager), Summer Driscoll (SYRCL’s Botany Technician), Reed Herbison (SYRCL’s Restoration Coordinator), and Danielle Conway (SYRCL’s Fisheries Restoration Program Manager), along with invaluable assistance from four California State Park Rangers, John Kenny from the U.S. Forest Service, four dedicated volunteers, and a high school intern from Bitney Prep High School, worked tirelessly to place the markers. The team’s dedication was exemplified by the challenging task of installing intersection signage on the South Yuba Trail at Humbug and Missouri Bar, which required multiple strenuous hikes into and out of the canyon. 

One of the final installations took place on the Doolittle Trail near the Gold Quartz Picnic Area, marking a significant achievement despite the trail’s steep and poorly maintained condition. Each marker placed along these trails not only aids in navigation but also stands as a testament to the hard work and community spirit that drove this project to completion. 

Trail Marker maps are available as downloadable PDF’s at the end of this article. They are georeferenced so you can download them into an app like Avenza on your phone and see where you are on the trail even when offline 

Community Impact 

Reflecting on the project’s completion, Rose Ledford shared her appreciation for the opportunity to explore the South Yuba Canyon with community members and marvel at the natural beauty of the area. “This project, though physically demanding, allowed me the privilege to explore the South Yuba Canyon with members of our community and bask in the beauty of this place we call home. Between the exasperated breaths and sore muscles, we could pause and bask in the awe of our wonderful river. My hope is that this project helps visitors and locals alike to feel empowered to get out and explore the South Yuba Canyon, knowing that they can identify where they are to emergency services if the need arises, and that they can find their way back home.”   

The Trail Markers project not only improves safety and navigation but also fosters a deeper connection between the community and the natural landscape of the South Yuba River. With the new signage in place, visitors can better appreciate the scenic trails while adhering to land use guidelines and staying safe. 

Looking Ahead 

As we celebrate this milestone, SYRCL remains committed to maintaining and enhancing the trail system. The project’s success underscores the importance of community involvement and collaboration in preserving the natural beauty and accessibility of the South Yuba River canyon. 

Visitors can now enjoy the improved trail experience, with markers guiding their way and ensuring they remain informed about their surroundings. Keep an eye out for the new mile markers this summer, and don’t forget to download the georeferenced maps available on the SYRCL website for offline navigation.  

To learn more from SYRCL staff about the trail markers, check out one of the River Ambassador tables at Highway 49 and Bridgeport Crossings on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 2pm throughout the summer.  

For more information about the Trail Markers project please contact Rose Ledford, SYRCL’s Science and Education Project Manager, at Rose@yubariver.org or by phone at (530) 265-5961 x 207.