We are so grateful to have access to this little escape behind our house. It was a major selling point for us when putting in our offer. Hinkle Creek is located at 7000 Baldwin Dam Road. just off of Folsom-Auburn Rd. The one mile dirt trail begins at the base of Lew Howard Park and also has a shorter asphalt path that meets Oak Ave Pkwy.
The trail follows a small creek that runs through the canyon. Parts of the canyon remind me of the landscape of the Folsom Zoo. There is a section that is referred to as Hinkle Hollow, where you can enjoy the serenity and truly feel like you have been transported somewhere else. While my husband calls it graffiti, I think it is sweet that people decorate rocks and place them around. Watch out for snakes during the summer and hotter months, (same goes for Lew Howard Park)! During the day you are likely to see a variety of birds, squirrels, insects, and wild turkeys. And although I have not seen them yet, I have heard the pack of coyotes that lives there howling at night.
There are 50 markers on the trail. If you would like to make a donation, have suggestions or comments, or would like to volunteer, please contact the Friends of Folsom Parkway at Enjoyfolsomtrails.org. The trail was named after Issac & Jessie Hinkle. Issac was the Superintendent of North Fork Ditch Water Company which evolved into San Juan Water District supplying us water today here on the north side of town.
This trail has provided us with some peace and tranquility while helping us with our stir-crazy feelings during the shelter in place. These daily family hikes are definitely staying in the post-pandemic routine. Whenever that may be!
