Hike of the Week: Jenkinson Lake

Black oak, Jenkinson Lake (11/1/14) Kimberly Kofala

Bigleaf maple, Jenkinson Lake (11/1/14) Kimberly Kofala

West Forest Trail, Jenkinson Lake (11/1/14) Kimberly Kofala

Black oak, Jenkinson Lake (11/1/14) Kimberly Kofala

Footpath, Jenkinson Lake (11/1/14) Kimberly Kofala

Color spotter Kimberly Kofala recommends an autumn hike around Jenkinson Lake in the El Dorado County community of Sly Park (Western Sierra).

We mentioned Sly Park and the Mormon Emigrant Trail early last month.  At the time, very little color was showing.  Now it’s at peak.

Kimberly says this is a mellow, gentle hike with beautiful fall foliage. She  jogged and hiked around Jenkinson Lake on Saturday as the fall color was peaking. Black oaks, bigleaf maple, cottonwood, dogwood. willow and grasses are all displaying deep color, which should last through this week.

Jenkinson lake is a quiet and peaceful area with a few fisherman dotted along its banks.  It’s also a great place to see waterfowl, geese, grebes and migrating black and white coots.   The entire loop is 8.1 miles or hikers can easily do a portion then turn around.  And, there are picnic grounds and campsites.

Jenkinson Lake (Peak 75-100%) – Fall color should remain at peak through the coming week, weather permitting. GO NOW!