3 Scenic Hiking Trails Surround The Small Town Of North San Juan In Northern California

When it comes to hiking trails, California is awash in them. From the mountains to the coasts, the desert landscapes, and everywhere in between, you can find a trail that suits your particular needs and desires. And each one offers its own unique beauty. If you’re looking for small-town scenic hiking trails, the former mining hub of North San Juan in Northern California offers a few where spectacular views are only the beginning.

Established in 1853, North San Juan was once part of the thriving California Gold Rush era.

As with many of those towns back in the day, once the rush was over, the miners and their families eventually left, and it began to decline. Today it holds "near ghost town" status, with close to 300 residents remaining, and fortunately has managed to retain a few of its historical buildings.

The Buttermilk Bend Trail is one of several scenic hiking trails surrounding North San Juan.

Located approximately 9 miles south of town within South Yuba River State Park, the Buttermilk Bend Trail encompasses about 1.2 miles.

The main trail has been widened over the years so that it is now wheelchair accessible and only mildly sloped.

In addition to all of the natural beauty on display along the way, hikers can diverge slightly to a relatively new upper trail featuring two bridges spanning the Yuba River.

Because of the terrain in this part of the state, you have to drive in a U-shape to get to the Yuba Rim Trail.

Located only about 13 miles away from North San Juan, this natural earth trail stretches for 2.35 miles. As you can see by this trailhead sign, hikers have a few spur options along the way.

Spectacular views, views, and more views are the highlight here, and you’ll enjoy them whether on foot, horseback, or mountain bike.

In addition to scores of native plant species, you will also encounter a wide array of wildlife (and that includes bears and mountain lions, so it’s always advisable to not hike alone here), and the confluence of the North Yuba River and Middle Yuba River, among other natural wonders.

The Rebel Ridge Trail is just 7 miles north of North San Juan.

As you might imagine, as it winds along its 1.6-mile-long route, it traverses through beautiful, wooded areas that are an absolute delight to the senses.

Yet open expanses with undulating sand hillside views are also part of the experience here.

Both hikers and mountain bikers love this scenic trail, and its length makes it very appealing to people of all physical abilities. It also possesses a very minimal elevation gain, so it’s not very strenuous a hike or ride.

Yes, small-town scenic hiking trails are sort of a dime a dozen in Northern California. Yet they each offer so much that delight and inspire. So get your boots on, grab a friend, and head on out to the town of North San Juan and enjoy what these amazing trails surrounding it are waiting to reveal!

Have you ever trekked along the Buttermilk Bend Trail, Yuba Rim Trail, and/or the Rebel Ridge Trails? If so, we’d love to see your photos and hear about your experiences there.

If you’re looking for other great hikes in Northern California, check out these 15 hikes that encompass breathtaking waterfalls.