| Phone |
| (530) 477-4788 |
| Website |
| South Yuba Independence Trail |
South Yuba Independence Trail in South Yuba River State Park is the first identified wheelchair-accessible nature trail in the United States. It is 2.21 miles long and was adapted from a water ditch that was originally built for gold mining and known at the time as Excelsior Canal. It is located on the south side of the South Yuba River near Highway 49 crosses the river. Trailhead parking is located off Highway 49, one mile south of the first bridge north of Nevada City. Jones Bar Trail is also located nearby but is not wheelchair-accessible.
South Yuba Independence Trail is divided into an east half and a west half. Independence Trail West descends slowly on a switchback ramp toward Rush Creek and features an overlook of the South Yuba River and a waterfall one mile from the entrance. Independence Trail East features cliff-hanging flumes and more views of the South Yuba River. Wheelchair-accessible outhouses are provided at several stopping places along the trail and at the trailhead. Picnic areas are also available.
Winter and Spring weather conditions can cause the trail to become muddy and impassable for wheelchairs, so call the park for trail condition information before you go.
Periodically, docents provide two-hour guided tours of South Yuba Independence Trail. These tours include a Wildflowers and Plants Walk, a Bird Identification and Nature Walk, and a Nature Walk. In addition, the annual Spring Festival and Fall Festival feature docents in period costumes who demonstrate blacksmithing, basket weaving, and similar historically significant skills. Live music, wagon rides, and snacks are available at both festivals, and local artists display their art for sale.
