El Dorado Trail - Placerville, CA
El Dorado Trail in Placerville, California, is a popular pet-friendly hiking destination that features both paved and unpaved sections. It’s well-known among locals and visitors seeking dog-friendly trails near Placerville for walking, running, and biking alongside their furry friends. With multiple access points and proximity to town, this scenic trail offers easy parking at various locations, highlights like picturesque bridges, and beautiful natural surroundings — making it ideal for both casual strolls and longer adventures with your dog.
For dog owners, the trail stands out as a go-to spot for leashed walks, with ample benches for rest and shaded segments for comfort on warmer days. You’ll find water fountains at certain trailheads (including the Placerville bus station), trash bins at intervals, and even the occasional dog waste bag station at nearby parks. While the trail is not fenced and does not allow off-leash play, its combination of nature, accessibility, and community spirit makes it a must-visit dog park and trail option in El Dorado County. Families also appreciate amenities like playgrounds and picnic tables found at adjoining parks along the trail corridor.
FAQ
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? No, dogs must remain on-leash while on the trail.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, there is no fenced off-leash dog area.
- Are poop bags or waste stations provided? Poop bags are available at some nearby parks along the route.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, there are benches and picnic tables along the trail and at adjacent parks.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Restrooms can be found at certain trailheads, like the bus station and some adjoining parks. However, some restrooms may be locked or unavailable at times.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, the trail is open year-round.
- Where is the best place to park? There are multiple parking areas along the trail, including a large lot at the Placerville bus station and street parking at nearby parks.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the El Dorado Trail itself is an extensive hiking and biking path with multiple segments.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Portions of the trail and some parks along the way offer shaded areas.
- Are there playgrounds or activities for kids nearby? Playgrounds and picnic spaces are found at several parks adjacent to the trail, making it suitable for families as well.
- Is public transportation available to the park? Yes, the Placerville bus station serves as a major access point to the trail.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, the trail and connecting parks are generally well-maintained, though some areas may have more trash than others.
- How busy does the park get on weekends? The paved section near Placerville is known to be busier, especially on weekends and during school breaks.
Reviews
This trail has two sections. The more popular section is the paved section near Placerville. The unpaved section starts in Shingle Springs. The two sections, when biking, are connected by a five mile road ride. Paved section will always have traffic. I would expect weekends to be busy and some parking areas to fill up. The dirt section will be open. On the dirt or west section on a weekday, I saw one dog walker and two equestrians. No bikers or hikers. Dirt section is rough in sections with up and down biking. I biked the trail on a hybrid with 38 cc street tires and front shocks. The stats for entire ride were 54 miles and 3700 feet of climbing. If doing longer distances, you will have some climbing. First two pics, paved section. Third pic, connecting road. Last two photos, dirt section. I had fun, especially on the dirt.
There is an east side and a west side trail off of Missouri Flat Road. The east side is busier, especially during school breaks, as there is a bike park off the trail. A restroom is located there as well. There are several benches to rest on and several exercise stations if you’re so inclined. The scenery is pleasant, the trail is easy. The old train trestle bridge is a nice addition with a nice view of the creek below. My only complaint is about some of the bicyclists, who are many, fly by without announcing themselves first, startling myself and my dog. It makes for a dangerous situation. The 25 mph speed limit isn’t adhered to at all.
We only did 5k roundtrip of the trail as it was smoky & hot at 8:30 am. We will update review when we do this again.
A lot of dry vegetation, a portion is shaded, a few exercise area along the trail, lots of turkeys & cows in some area. The fence and the long bridge is the highlight of the trail! The bridge is very rickety, though.
The trail extends so far, it is always fun to explore. Nature, train tracks, bridges, and animals are always there… Great place to take pictures too.
Pretty trail and close to town paved with parking. Has multiple points where you can park and start the trail. I also like that you can find little paths along the way if you want to get off the pavement some. Minus two stars for the trash along the trail not enough garbage cans and no restroom.