Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Martis Creek Trail

Martis Creek Trail is a short trail along Martis Creek, linking the Martis Valley Parking Area with other trails of the Martis Creek Wildlife Area southeast of Truckee in California. Martis Creek Trail crosses boggy habitat and, depending on season, you may get your feet wet, although small bridges are part of the trail. Some of them even have a name, for example, Blide Bros Bridge near the trailhead.  A panel informs that the period between May 1st and July 15th is prime bird nesting season, during which dog walking should be done on different trails. The Martis Creek Wildlife Area provides excellent habitat for breeding birds. 

Various other hiking options are available through the meadows and surrounding areas of sagebrush and light forest, including short connector trails of the Northstar Community and the Tompkins Memorial Trail.

Getting there
Martis Valley Parking Area is next to route 267 between Truckee and Kings Beach. Coming from Interstate 80 or Truckee and driving south on route 267, turn right at the  “Martic Creek Wildlife Area” sign (sharp turn) onto a dirt road. The gravel parking area with information panels is only a very short distance away from the turn-off.  

Map of the Martis Creek Wildlife Area and Northstar Community: www.northstarattahoe.com/nsassets/files/hike-summer/Hiking_Trail_Map.pdf.

No comments: