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Posted by: Kim_Hamilton on 03/16/2009 11:14 AM
Updated by: Kim_Hamilton on 03/17/2009 09:20 AM
Expires: 01/01/2014 12:00 AM
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A River Runs Through It - Natural Bridges~By The PineTree Pedaler, Brett Loring
by Columnist, ThePineTree Pedaler, Brett Loring
It’s a great time to catch the full-flowing beauty of the Stanislaus River as it ducks under two earthen and limestone formations that are the namesake of Natural Bridges. Off of Parrotts Ferry Road, southbound and just before descending the grade to the bridge over New Melones reservoir toward Columbia, the parking area and trailhead are well-marked on the right. A suitable hike for the whole family, on the way back up young ‘uns may plead, “Carry me!” This is an ideal photo expedition with opportunities to capture the wonders of not only the natural arches some call “caves,” but also the....
allure of the limestone river bed, the labyrinth of tree roots that flank the water, and scurrying and fluttering wildlife. During the Gold Rush, L.A. “Old Bach” Barnes established a mining claim along the river in this unique geological area. You can find a historic marker near one of the Bridges.
Less than a mile, the trek down the dirt and rock path to the Stanislaus River requires sturdy shoes or hiking boots. Take along drinking water, snacks, mosquito repellent and sunscreen. Include a picnic lunch if you’re ambitious, to enjoy along the river or at one of the benches or tables along the way. At some places along the trail, steps have been built in to assist with descent and ascent. The trail winds here and there and passes through a few rock obstacles. Stay on the trail. After enjoying a visit to the bottom of the trail at the Bridges, my kids and I spent hours off the beaten path thinking we could traverse the mountain to find a “creative” way back to the car. Wrong. Several dead-ends on deer trails led us into hedgerows of poison oak that we could not pass without risking potential itches and scratches. My children were on the verge of trying to signal aircraft to rescue us. I tried to constantly reassure them that I could see exactly where the car was – we just “couldn’t get there from here.” Additionally, some of the flora is in a fragile environment and is to be respected and protected as a unique habitat. Pets are not allowed on the trail.
In the spring, ranger-led tours to Upper Natural Bridge and to Coyote Creek are offered. Call the New Melones Lake Visitor Center at 536-9543 for details. The Visitors Center is located on Highway 49 between Sonora and Angels Camp, on the southeast side of the highway near the end of the bridge. For a rough contour map of the Natural Bridges trail, go to the Bureau of Reclamation’s webpage at www.usbr.gov/mp/ccao/field_offices/new_melones/maps/index.html
If you have questions or comments for Brett, feel free to email him at Brett@thepinetree.net:)
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