up a steep grade for half a mile and then descends back to connect with South Side Trail near the east railroad tunnel on the Bizz Johnson Trail. Above the east railroad tunnel is a junction with a single-track connector trail that provides linkage back to the Bizz Johnson Trail. From the junction of South Side Trail and the connector trail to the Bizz Johnson Trail at the east railroad tunnel, South Side Trail continues west (upstream) .2 miles to a spectacular overlook of the Bizz Johnson Trail’s west railroad tunnel. The trail continues west and upstream along a steep grass- and shrub-covered side hill on a narrow single-track trail (18 to 36 inches wide) for approximately .2 miles, then connects with an old road grade that is wider, but has only been cleared for single-track trail use (2 to 3 feet wide). West of the steep side hill segment, the trail re-enters a pine and fir forest landscape. It then follows the old road grade as it climbs and descends above the Bizz Johnson Trail’s west railroad tunnel providing views back to the east railroad tunnel.
Continuing west, the South Side Trail descends to the shaded riparian area of Cheney Creek, a year-round stream five miles west of Susanville. West of Cheney Creek, the trail climbs again through a series of gradual grades and four steep, climbing turns until the trail gains elevation to connect with another old logging road grade (only cleared to single-track trail width). After about .5 miles the trail leaves the old road and follows a singletrack trail constructed along the edge of an inner canyon basalt rim with occasional views of the Susan River. The single track trail meanders along the rim, crosses an open treeless grass and low sage flat and then re-enters a mix of pine and fir trees. Soon the trail crosses a small seasonal drainage and then continues through the woods to another beautiful overlook of the Susan River. From the overlook, the trail descends through two turns, traverses 700 feet of rocky talus slope padded with dirt, then descends to river level .25 miles south of the Devil’s Corral trailhead. During low flows, temporary bridges may be installed across the Susan River
.25 miles south of the Devil’s Corral Trailhead. However, this is subject to river levels and other factors. Call BLM to check current conditions. A permanent South Side Trail bridge over the Susan River at Devil’s Corral is planned for the future, but is not expected to be funded for several years. Trail users should carry plenty of water or treat water for drinking. Dogs and stock animals can access the Susan River in many places along South Side Trail, however in many places the trail is far above the river and there is no easy way to the water so trail users should provide watering opportunities for dogs and horses when water is nearby. To see a video with helmet cam views of the South Side Trail and the Susan River Canyon, visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=oogTGcAoxik. The description of the South Side Trail was provided by Stan Bales, outdoor recreation planner, Eagle Lake Field Office, Bureau of Land Management, 2950 Riverside Drive, Susanville, CA 96130. For questions about the trail, call (530) 257-0456. ❖
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Lassen County Visitors Guide 2014-15
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