Point Defiance Loop Trail in Spring

The Point Defiance Loop Trail is located in the South Yuba River State Park in California. Coming from the visitor center, cross the covered bridge over the South Yuba River and turn left at the end of the bridge. The beautiful trail leads you along the river (see picture) for about one mile. Near Point Defiance are beaches and sand banks that can easily be accessed, but may be muddy. Continuing on the trail you reach Englebright Lake. From there the trail goes uphill, with amazing views of the sometimes blue-green lake water. On top of the hill you'll find picnic areas and views down to from where you started. Hiking the trail downhill, you return to the covered bridge, but may want to cross Pleasant Valley Road and hike Buttermilk Bend Trail, again along the river, now in the opposite direction.