If you’re looking for a quick escape into nature while visiting Nevada County, the Bear Yuba Land Trust’s protected lands offer countless recreational opportunities across the region’s scenic foothills and mountains. One of the most popular spots is the Cascade Canal Trail, nestled between Nevada City and Grass Valley.
Who Will Love It#
Although it sits mid-slope on Banner Mountain, the area’s mining legacy helped shape what is now a relatively flat and accessible trail. The trail stretches 4.5 miles with no more than 400 feet of elevation gain (90’ of altitude). This makes it an ideal outing for all ages and fitness levels.
Its mid-mountain location also offers Instagram-worthy views, and the nearby water source has turned the trail into a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Gold Mining Built – Nature Restored#
Everywhere you go in Nevada County, the legacy of its gold mining past is both visible and deeply felt. To meet the massive water demands of mining, more than 824 miles of ditches were excavated by 1880.
One notable example is the Cascade Canal Trail, which runs alongside the historic “New” Cascade Canal. Originally known as the Leonard Ditch, it was dug in 1883 to supply water to the Idaho Mine and power its Pelton wheels—a crucial innovation in hardrock mining. Remarkably, the canal continued to support mining operations until 1933.
Today, this historic route has been transformed into a peaceful nature trail, popular with hikers, runners, and bikers looking to enjoy the area’s scenic beauty and rich history.
Best Time To Visit#
There’s a reason this trail is popular year-round and on our list of the best Nevada County Hikes. In spring (from early March through mid-May), wildflowers bloom along the path, adding bursts of color to the landscape. During summer, its higher elevation—nearly 3,200 feet above sea level—and plentiful shade offer a welcome escape from the heat. In fall, the trail transforms into a tapestry of vibrant foliage, making it a favorite for autumn walks. And in winter, it typically sits just below the snow-line, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors even when higher elevations are snowed in.
Highlights#
The trail winds alongside the canal under a thick forest canopy. Along the way, you’ll find several scenic viewpoints offering glimpses of downtown Nevada City and the surrounding hills and ridges. Watch for the white spire of St. Canice Church. It was built in 1864 and named after a cathedral in County Kilkenny, Ireland, the homeland of Father Griffin.
A great side trip is the Orene Wetherall Trail, a 1.2-mile out-and-back route that dips into the Woodpecker Wilderness Preserve. True to its name, the area is rich in wildlife and offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. Keep an eye out for woodpeckers such as the Pileated, Downy, Hairy, and Red-breasted Sapsucker, along with a variety of other birds, insects, and mammals.
