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Cronan Ranch Trailhead

Pilot Hill, California · El Dorado County · Facility

Remember your OUTDOOR ETHICS when enjoying your public lands. Please RECREATE RESPONSIBLY.OverviewCronan Ranch Trailhead is located in Pilot Hill, California. The area contains 12 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, bird watching and other passive recreation. There is a wide variety of terrai…

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About Cronan Ranch Trailhead

Remember your OUTDOOR ETHICS when enjoying your public lands. Please RECREATE RESPONSIBLY.OverviewCronan Ranch Trailhead is located in Pilot Hill, California. The area contains 12 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, bird watching and other passive recreation. There is a wide variety of terrain to choose from, including gently sloped to challenging hills, oak woodland and gentle riverfront trails. Each season offers a diverse experience.Cronan Ranch connects with the South Fork American River corridor trail that runs from Greenwood Creek to Salmon Falls. For more information, see our South Fork American River webpage.Map for the Cronan Ranch AreaThe land for Cronan Ranch and river trail corridor was purchased by the American River Conservancy, BLM and other partners over a period of 16 years and placed into public trust to be used for recreation and wildlife conservation. The purchase was made possible through generous donations by individuals, private foundations and government agencies, including the Wildlife Conservation Board and the California State Resources Agency.What you need to know:Cronan Ranch is a Day-Use area only. No overnight camping.Only non-motorized recreational activities such as hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and other similar passive activities are allowed.Portions of this trail system border private property. Please respect the rights of private property owners by staying on designated routes at all times.Please be aware that there are mountain lions and rattlesnakes in the area.Fireworks are prohibited.Fuelwood cutting and collection is prohibited.A Special Recreation Use Permit is required for all commercial, organized groups, or competitive activities.Helpful Links:Hiking on Public LandsE-Bikes on Public LandsHunting and Shooting Info - Cronan Ranch:Firearms: The discharge of firearms is prohibited except in the course of licensed, in-season hunting activities. Hunting with rifles is prohibited within th

Plan Your Visit to Cronan Ranch Trailhead

Heading to Cronan Ranch Trailhead? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Cronan Ranch Trailhead?

No central reservation system listed for Cronan Ranch Trailhead. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/273853) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Cronan Ranch Trailhead?

From the town of Auburn, take CA-49 south for approximately twelve (12) miles. Turn right on Pedro Hill Road.

How do I contact Cronan Ranch Trailhead?

You can reach the park at phone: (916) 941-3101 or email: BLM_CA_Web_ML@blm.gov.