Guided Hikes
In the fall, winter and spring our staff and docents lead hikes in different areas of the park. These hikes vary greatly in lenght and intensity. The hikes focus on flora, fauna, or the history of the canyon. They are free, though a $10 day use fee applies in marked areas.
We recommend arriving early, dressing in layers, wearing sun protection, wearing comfortable walking shoes, and bringing plenty of water and snacks.
Summer Evening Ramble
- When: Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 6:30 PM
- Where: China Bar Entrance Lot
- Hike Details: China Bar and Dam Haul roads, Pioneer Express Trail. Summer evening ramble above the old Auburn Dam site. Enjoy delicate, evening-blooming soap plant flowers and learn about its many uses. Our route on mostly gentle grade features views of the river canyon as it passes remains of the dam project, placer mining, and Mountain Quarries Railroad. Paved/gravel roads and two short sections of narrow single-track trail. Appx 2 hrs. Meet 6:30 pm at ASRA?s China Bar entrance parking lot, 490 Maidu Dr in Auburn. Parking $10 cash or free along Maidu. Bring water, essentials, shoes with good traction, mosquito repellant and flashlight (sunset 8:30). Well-behaved dogs on leash OK. Rain, AQI > 100 or heat advisory cancel. No need to RSVP. Peggy Egli 530-718-0448
Interested in scheduling a guided hike for your group? Call the Auburn SRA interpretation office at (530) 863-8848
For more hike information, visit https://www.canyonkeepers.org/ or email joseph.shanahan@parks.ca.gov
Junior Ranger Program
During the Summer, Auburn SRA hosts weekly Junior Ranger Programs. Junior Rangers is a free program designed for ages 7-12, but all ages are welcome to attend. Programs are led by park staff and docents and typically last 1-2 hours.
Summer Schedule 2026
Meet at the Confluence Kiosk for a drop-in program every Saturday between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM from June 6, 2026 - August 22, 2026. No sign up requried.
Our mission is to provide educational experiences both in Auburn SRA and in the classroom, assisting educators with curriculum needs and offering activities that enable students to investigate, research, and participate in interactive learning. All programs are free, though regular day use fees apply.
Interested in an off season program for your group? Contact the Auburn SRA Interpretation Office at (530)745-2202
Junior Cubs Program
The Junior Cubs Program is designed for ages 3-6 and typically includes story and craft. Join State Parks educators with your little ones for this free program.
- When: The 1st Saturday of each month 10:00-11:00 AM
- Where: Murphy House (501 El Dorado Street Auburn)
- Details: Programs include a nature based story, craft, sometimes music and a short walk in the garden. Programs will be held outdoors weather permitting otherwise they will be held indoors. No need to RSVP. Brought to you by Auburn SRA Interpretation and Education (530)863-8848
Interested in an off site program or would like a program on a different date? Contact the Auburn SRA Interpretation Office at (530)745-2202
School Groups
Auburn SRA offers K-12 programs for schools both in the classroom and in the park. If you are interested in scheduling a program or seeing a list of our current programs call the Auburn SRA Interpretation Office at (530) 745-2202. or fill out a Program Request and we will reach out to confirm.
Campfire Programs
During the Summer, Auburn SRA hosts campfire programs. Campfire programs are interactive educational programs that take place in the evening. Led by park staff and volunteers, campfire programs are thematic, interactive and theatrical and typically last one hour.
Interested in scheduling a campfire program for your group? Call the Auburn SRA Intperpretation Office at (530) 745-2202
