Are dogs allowed on Fordyce Falls Via Spaulding Lake Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Fordyce Falls Via Spaulding Lake Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Fordyce Falls Via Spaulding Lake Trail?

No, Fordyce Falls Via Spaulding Lake Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Fordyce Falls Via Spaulding Lake Trail?

Fordyce Falls Via Spaulding Lake Trail is rated difficult. It is 11.0 miles long with 1,893 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See California trail conditions

DifficultOut and Back

California

Fordyce Falls Via Spaulding Lake Trail

Alta, California

11.0 mi

Distance

1,893 ft

Elev. Gain

4h 23m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Difficult

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

It's an excellent summer hike through the woods and a lake that leads to Fordyce Falls, which has nice views and is very pleasant to visit. There are lots of open granite slabs near the creek to nap, picnic and take good photos. There are large pipes carrying water and transportation for hydropower generation along the Spaulding Lake Trail. The system is minimally intrusive to the natural environment. You can take a break at the beach along the trail. There can be high water near the beginning of the trail. The trail is difficult to follow and it isn't maintained well. Users have reported that the trail contains rattlesnakes. It's not a good idea to take unleashed dogs along this trail.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:1,535 ft

Max:1,672 ft

577 ft

Trail Details

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.

Hunt context