Granite Chief Picayune Valley Overnight Backpack

ARC volunteer Tom Dodson will lead this exploration of the Granite Chief Wilderness Area Picayune Valley starting at Talbot Creek. This group will hike up along the Middle Fork of the American River passing through an old growth forest. After crossing the headwaters of the Middle Fork you will emerge into the Picayune Valley. In the valley the group will explore waterfalls and Indian petroglyphs. Through the valley, pass through several alpine meadows with wildflowers in bloom. The hike is moderate with no step elevation gains; elevation is 5600ft. The group will camp at the upper end of the valley. After setting up camp, you will hike up to the saddle and have views of the Granite Chief.

Note: This is an overnight trip, so bring your own backpack with supplies and food. Hike difficulty is intermediate — with 400ft. elevation gains, a total of 12 miles round trip. Ages 12+ with backpacking experience.