Salmon Falls, Flagstaff Hill, Sweetwater

This is the basic Salmon Falls route but I add the Flagstaff Hill climb for a good aerobic workout. I also add Sweetwater trail at the end for a longer ride. I park in the big turnout on the left just before the bridge on Salmon Falls Rd.

Here’s the route: Take the Salmon Falls trail. At 3.44 miles take the trail that veers slightly to the right. This trail eventually merges back with the main trail just before a creek crossing. Just after the creek crossing, take the trail that veers to the right straight up a hill. This is the Flagstaff hill trail. There are a few trails the lead off to the left, just remember to always keep to the right. After 1.7 miles on this trail, you will reach a 4 way fireroad intersection. Take a left for the rest of the climb up Flagstaff Hill.

Eventually the road ends at an old car frame and dump area. It is best to get off and walk when nearing the end because of all the glass. This is where the Mickey Mouse trail starts. Part of Mickey Mouse is on private property. The landlord has been out with his gun trying to enforce his property rights. I don’t go down Mickey Mouse, I just go back down the road the same way I came up.

When you reach the same 4 way intersection, go straight. Within a half mile you will reach Rattlesnake Bar Rd. Take a left and proceed into the campground. There are restrooms and water available. From this point I take the main trail all the way back to the start. There are signs to reach the main trail from the campground area.

Once you get back to the parking area, if you want some more sweet singletrack, go up Salmon Falls Rd the way you came in. In less than a quarter mile take a right into the parking area. The Sweetwater trailhead is to the left, at the end of the parking lot. The trail is less than 3 miles one way.