The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages Cronan Ranch, originally a working cattle ranch of approximately 1,452 acres. This beautiful area contains 12 miles of dirt roads and trails ambling through a variety of terrain from oak woodland and rolling hills to shaded, riparian river access. Two kiosks at the trailhead provide maps and basic trail guidelines. A third kiosk at the top of the first hill has a map and additional information on the history of the land. An accessible toilet is available in the parking lot.

A 3.7 mile trail leads from the parking area to the river and back, passing several habitats and producing a variety of species. In spring, the open grasslands are rich with many nesting Lazuli Buntings and possible rarities such as Grasshopper Sparrow and Tricolored Blackbirds. Northern Rough-winged Swallows fly low over the trails and parking area, and Rufous-crowned Sparrows nest in the riparian area approaching the river. Bullock’s Orioles and Ash-throated Flycatchers are numerous and can be heard calling from many of the trees in the grasslands and along the river. eBird Sightings

A trail map and additional information on Cronan Ranch are available from the Bureau of Land Management.  

Directions: To reach Cronan Ranch, take Highway 50 to the Ponderosa Road exit (exit 37) at Shingle Springs. Cross over the freeway and turn right onto North Shingle Road. After about 4 miles, N Shingle Road becomes Green Valley Road which comes in from the left at the intersection. In a little more than half a mile, where Green Valley continues to the right, go (continue) straight on the road, which becomes Lotus Road. Continue on Lotus for another 7 miles to Highway 49. Turn left onto 49 (toward Auburn), continue about 6 miles, passing the Magnolia Ranch parking lot on the left and a small winery on the right. Drive 1.85 miles north of the Magnolia Ranch parking lot and turn left onto Pedro Hills Road, the second left turn sign from the Magnolia lot. Both lots provide access to the series of trails which run between the Greenwood Creek River Access and Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park.

This is one of four excellent locations in and near Coloma: the Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park, the Greenwood Creek River Access, the Dave Moore Nature Area, and the Marshall Gold Discovery Historic State Park.

Maureen Geiger