In Nevada City, you can find a unique suspension bridge that hangs over Deer Creek. It's a pretty easy and short walk from downtown Nevada City.
The creek that runs under the bridge is always changing, and today seemed like a good day to get some updated long exposures. Because of fallen trees and giant rocks, it is a little tricky reaching the ideal shooting spot, but I did manage a location I am happy with.
When shooting landscapes, I usually prefer moody weather. Clouds, mist, fog and even rain. Winter is trying to end early and we have been experiencing bright cloudless sun for weeks. When we finally had an overcast day, I decided to return to Buttermilk Bend trail in the South Yuba River State Park to capture the green hillsides along the South Yuba River.
This trail is really great for a light hike. Mostly flat and you don't need to do any climbing.
One of my favorite parts of the trail is this set of stairs that take you to the main trail.
I have been on this trail three times now, and I only found these cool bridges by accident.
The bridge crosses some really nice streams, but they are totally dry because of the short winter.
As spring reaches the peak, the trails should be filled with wildflowers. Something to make a return worth while.
After moving to Grass Valley in 2016, I soon discovered a really special hiking trail about 10 minutes outside of downtown Nevada City called Independence trail. This happens to be the nation’s first identified handicapped-accessible wilderness trail. The trail is broken down into two different trails, East and West.
This boardwalk is found in the East trail (Go Left from main entrance). If you walk far enough, you will reach the South Yuba River.
The trails are a combination of wooden boardwalks like the one above and dirt trails. All of the trails are mostly flat, although they can get muddy during the winter. The trail also has an ok sized parking lot and bathrooms. I have heard of cars being broken into, so hide your stuff.
This tunnel under a giant rock can be found along the east trail.
If you go West (right turn from entrance), you can walk just over a mile to one of the coolest boardwalks I have crossed.
A waterfall runs under this section of boardwalk
The real prize on this hike is the not just the handful of small waterfalls, but the impressive switchback ramp designed to allow wheelchairs to reach the water below. Unfortunately age has damaged the ramps and it is closed. The current plan is to get an engineering study completed and make major repairs. The restoration costs are around $750,000.
At the far side of the ramp is a really cool looking waterfall that I have been unable to visit because of the closure.
A unique closed sign. Probably true, although I have seen people cross into the closed area.