Magnolia Ranch Trailhead
They're baaaaaack . . .
Sheep will be grazing Cronan Ranch and Magnolia Ranch for yellow star thistle and medusahead beginning in May 2023. They will be out through July at Magnolia and through August at Cronan. There will be sheep protection dogs and a herder onsite at both locations.
The BLM encourages the public to recreate responsibly on public lands and take precautions by adhering to posted grazing signs. Specifically, when sheep are present, please avoid conflict with sheep and dog(s) by stopping and dismounting if mountain biking, put your bike between you and the sheep and/or dog(s), walk your bike until you are well past the sheep, keep your distance from the flock, keep your dog(s) leashed at all times, watch for the protection dog(s) and the herder, and remain calm and quiet if dog(s) or sheep approach.
Remember your OUTDOOR ETHICS when enjoying your public lands. Please RECREATE RESPONSIBLY.
Overview
The BLM, Magnolia Ranch Trailhead is located approximately five (5) miles north of the town of Coloma along Highway 49 and the South Fork of the American River. It is situated between the Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park and Greenwood Creek River Access on public lands.
The Magnolia Ranch Trailhead takes you along the 2.5 mile Gerle Loop Trail which is an easy to moderate, mostly flat trail across rolling hills and oak woodlands with scenic views and access to the American River. The Gerle Loop trail ties into a more extensive trail system west of Hastings Creek and leads you into the Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park.
What you need to know:
- Magnolia 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:
Pack it in - pack it out... and pack a little extra if you can. Help us keep this area clean.
Hunting and Shooting Info - Magnolia Ranch:
- No target shooting allowed
- No hunting for bear, squirrels, rabbits, jackrabbits, waterfowl, furbearers, or non game species
NOTE: All California game species are regulated by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). Rules, regulations, and seasons are controlled by CDFW, and it is the hunter's responsibility to verify and comply with proper species, seasons, zones, regulations, and legal location if hunting on public lands.
FGC 3004 — It is unlawful for any person to hunt or discharge while hunting, any firearm or other deadly weapon within 150 yards of any occupied dwelling house, residence, or other building or any barn or other outbuilding used in connection therewith. The 150 yard area is a "Safety Zone."
More Helpful Links:
- Where to Shoot
- California Department of Fish & Wildlife
- Hunting, Fishing and Recreational Shooting on Public Lands, BLM California
Also VISIT: South Fork American River webpage
Other BLM Trailheads:
Return To: BLM, Mother Lode Field Office
Phone
Directions
From the town of Auburn, drive south on Highway 49 for approximately fourteen (14) miles. Destination will be on the right.