Black Hole of Calcutta Falls

YOUTUBE VIDEO

Location: Auburn, CA

Distance: 2.2 miles

Type: Day-hike; Out-and-back

Rating: Easy

Permits & Fees: There is no fee if parking off of Hwy 193 (after driving across the Tall Green Bridge – Not to be confused with Foresthill Bridge). Directions to the trailhead can be found here.

Preparation: Water, sunscreen and warm clothing if hiking during the winter months are required. To beat the crowds, it’s best to complete this hike as early as possible.

The Hike:

This hike is family friendly, dog friendly and is great for beginners! After parking off of Hwy 193 (directions can be found in the link above):

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The trailhead is marked by a green gate with the following signs:

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Begin hiking past the gate until the Mountain Quarries Railroad Bridge, also know as the “No Hands Bridge”, is reached. Be mindful of the weather; after a heavy rainfall, the bridge may become flooded. It’s still possible to cross, but your shoes may get wet. The view is well worth it:

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After the bridge, the trail continues until a minor fork is reached. Continue to the right of the concrete. To the left is a small, hidden trail that goes off course from the main trail:

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Only a short while later, the falls are in sight and a short climb down will lead to the base of the waterfall:

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After enjoying the view, take the same way back to the trailhead. It took less than an hour to complete the hike, but taking time to soak up the views and quiet is recommended.