Hinkle Creek Loop Trail, Folsom, CA - A Magical, Family Friendly Hike in Pure Nature

7000 Baldwin Dam Rd, Folsom, CA 95630

Directions

Park Hours: 7am to one hour after sunset

916-461-6601

If fairies were real, this is where you would find them.  

Lush areas of green grass, a winding dirt trail among tall, whimsical trees, rocks overgrown with moss, a creek with an inviting stone pathway leading to the unknown, and the indescribable feeling of being surrounded by magic will get me coming back time and time again.

Me and my family visited BOA Vista Orchards (open year-round) one weekend and ran into a minor problem upon arrival- we had forgotten our 2-year-old son's shoes back at home 1.5 hours away.  The nearest place we could find a store that had his shoe size was in Folsom.  After buying shoes, we looked up a family-friendly hike nearby and Google pointed us to Hinkle trail.  

The fact that we found this place in unforeseen circumstances makes it very special because it's not often you'd find such a special place. 

Notes:

-36 acres

-1 mile loop

-address brings you to the nature center where you can learn more about nature animals and plants and educational programs in the area 

-if traveling in winter, be sure to check that the roads high in the mountains are clear of snow. If taking the 80, check weather for donner pass as it is one of the highest points on the route to Folsom. If taking 50, check the weather at adventure mountain, also one of the highest points on the route

-trails get muddy in wet weather during the winter

-equestrian and dog friendly

-there is seating at some areas including the beginning of trail and at nature center ideal for picnics

-lots of space to step to the sides for social distancing

-half of trail is in among grass and trees. Other half on paved path back to parking lot.

-you can find a makeshift fairy garden near the beginning of trail

-Folsom Zoo is nearby if you want to make a day trip complete with entertainment.  You can also find the Folsom Railway in the same area.

-coyotes out early morning

-Folsom is practically neighbors with the bay area and the bay area always has the best bubble tea (or commonly known as Boba).  I always take advantage and get Boba when visiting these areas.  We found a great place called T4, if you're interested. Online ordering available.

-More attractions in Folsom

-From Reno, you can take pass by South Lake Tahoe and BOA Vista orchards on the way to Folsom by taking highway 50

-You can save seven miles from Reno by taking the 80. On the way, you can stop by Truckee, a scenic city with winter sports and restaurants.

Reccomended Gear

-Sunscreen (after trying so many options, this is my family's favorite)

-Water Bottle (definitely a must in Reno's dry climate)

-Portable potty & Liners (priceless gadget that makes any hike with kids a breeze)

-hiking backpack (great view for kids, storage, nap friendly, shade)

-carrier (more afordable, light weight, shade, storage for keys)

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Categorized under Family Friendly Hikes and Day Trips From Reno

Photos

©Katherine Fung,

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