Every year, I host a backpacking trip for a group of friends and friends of friends. This would be the 8th annual backpacking trip I have hosted. Generally, it is a relaxing trip and geared towards new backpackers. I typically have enough gear for 2-3 more people (or borrow some). It’s towards the end of summer and the weather hasn’t been scorching in the Sacramento valley. This time, we headed towards the El Dorado National Forest!
With a group of 7 people, I choose the El Dorado National Forest because of several reasons. First, open camping without permits. Second, it is close enough to drive for a weekend trip. Third, it is not highly traveled. And lastly, there are many trails in the area to explore. Definitely, I would consider this a great area that isn’t highly populated.
El Dorado National Forest provides many trails and camping locations throughout. Additionally, dispersed camping is allowed so it makes backpacking this area even easier. With that said, the trail we embarked on was the Caples Creek Loop Trail.
Caples Creek Loop Trail
Caples Creek Loop Trail is located in the El Dorado National Forest. The drive is about 1.5 to 2 hours from Sacramento. At about 70 miles away, it’s not that far. In fact, you can visit South Lake Tahoe after this trip.
This trail provided everything we need for backpacking. First, distance. Having a good destination provides a reason to camp out. This trail provided a good amount for all of us. Second, a water source. While backpacking, having adequate access to water allows us to have cooking water, fishing, swimming, and bathing. And lastly, it was away from people.
We began driving at 730 am and arrived at around 930 am due to some stops along the way. The roads weren’t so bad and Google Maps was on point for the trailhead. Parking wasn’t so easy to find because the trailhead is a campground. Cell phone service was non-existent in the area for Verizon and T-Mobile.
Trail Link: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/california/caples-creek-loop-trail
The Hike In
Upon arriving, we all prepared our gear and headed along the marked trails. The trail isn’t particularly difficult but its a good stretch of length to cover with a backpack. As you travel in deeper through the trail, there are a lot of intersections with other trails. However, it’s not difficult to follow.
Throughout the trail, there is a lot of trees through provide shade. In fact, there are only a few places on this trail without trees. With that said, I did enjoy this area as it wasn’t super hot.
As we arrived at the creek which was about 5 miles in, we found camp location. Notably, fire pits and enough spots for 5 tents. It was right next to a giant boulder. I felt at home.
Making Camp
We set up camp just away from the Caples Creek. It was majestic, to say the least. Tons of shade. Fire pits. Near a water source. I was in my happy zone. The group did as well.
“Backcountry campsites must be more than 100 yards from any water ” -NPS
Setting up camp, I used my 3UL Lanshan 2P tent which uses 2 hiking poles. It’s super light and pretty easy to setup. It took some time because it was my second time setting this tent up. The tent was roomy and provided a good amount of ventilation. I would recommend it for backpacking with 2 people.
In this area, we also set up the fire pit. What is camping without a fire? It was nice as the day ended. Make sure you obtain a fire permit for any fire; including stoves. Also, make sure it’s allowed.
After setting up camping, we enjoyed the day by hiking up the granite mountains which overlooked the creek. The clouds push by like in the movies. The sun beamed down over the hills. And the air was crisp.
There was plenty of time left in the day so I walked along the creek to do some fly fishing. Along this creek are rainbow trout. You can see plenty jumping out of the creek. Most are small but it’s relaxing to fish in the outdoors away from people.
After all the activities, I jumped into the creek. It was ice cold but relieving as I felt stick from all the hiking. I always feel great to be clean before you settle into camp.
As the day ended, we all talked about life as the fire died out into the night. It’s always nice to talk to friends about life and everything else crazy.
The Hike Out
The day started out late as we slowly got up out of our tents. The hike back to the trailhead is up and over a giant hill. Whenever camping, I always try to practice “Leave No Trace” so that others enjoy the area as I did.
“To sustain healthy and vibrant natural lands, these are the problems Leave No Trace solves.”
Packing up and heading out, we had to cross the creek. There were only two options, cross through the creek by walking in the water or find a bridge. Luckily, I followed the creek and found yesterday as I went fishing.
As we hiked over the felled tree, you can see the beautiful creek whispering along. It’s a beautiful sight. Also, you can see fish in the water and other life hovering over the water.
As we carried along up the hill, I took it all in as the hills rolled over with the trees and the sky. The hill was actually pretty intense with a backpack. Nonetheless, once we reached the top, it was downhill from here.
Towards the end of the loop, there is a rolling waterfall to view. It’s a rather large one with tons of boulders lodged in it. Not really an Instagram worthy waterfall but it’s a waterfall.
A bridge connects the loop back to the beginning of the trail. Once at the bridge, it’s a nice view of the creek. Also, a photo opportunity for the group.
After hiking for about 2 hours, we arrived back at the trailhead. In the end, we were not exhausted but happy that we spent a weekend disconnecting with the hustle of life. Definitely, a great experience for everyone.
Overall
Wide-open for camping and not very busy. More importantly, this is definitely a great trip for a backpacking adventure. Full of cover and a moderate hike to and from camp. Also, this area is dog-friendly which is a major plus for me. Ultimately, the campground at the trailhead is a great place to camp and allows you to do this hike as a day hike. Overall, its a great location for everything outdoors.
Quick Links
Forest Information: El Dorado National Forest
Google Maps: https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/38.69522,-120.20029
Trail: Caples Creek Loop Trail
Little to No Impact: “Leave No Trace”