Poker Flat

Trail Overview

A challenging drive that passes through two historic gold mining towns: Poker Flat and Howland Flat. The trail can be used as a shortcut between Downieville and La Porte. Trip to Saddleback Mountain Lookout Tower has rewarding views. Green-sticker vehicles can stage on the La Porte side at the large warming hut. We enjoyed our stop in rustic Downieville.

Photos of Poker Flat

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Difficulty

Moderate: Mostly a wide, easy, dirt road. One narrow, steep, rocky climb with banks on each side between Waypoints 06 and 07. Stock SUVs should have high ground clearance and skid plates.

History

In 1850, Poker Flat produced $700,000 in gold every month. Nearly 2,000 people occupied the town at its peak. The town developed its notoriety largely from a fictional tale by Bret Harte entitled 'Outcasts of Poker Flat.' Howland Flat produced an estimated $14 million in gold over its lifetime.

Technical Rating