Foresthill Bridge & Quarry Road Trail
Marvel at California's highest concrete arch bridge spanning the American River Canyon, offering breathtaking views and access to scenic hiking trails.
California's Highest Concrete Arch Bridge
The Foresthill Bridge stands as an engineering marvel and one of California's most impressive structures. Rising 730 feet above the American River Canyon, it holds the distinction of being the highest concrete arch bridge in California and one of the highest in the United States. The bridge offers visitors spectacular panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada foothills and the pristine American River below.
Built in 1973, the bridge was originally constructed to provide access to areas that would have been flooded by the proposed Auburn Dam. Although the dam was never completed, the bridge remains as a testament to engineering excellence and has become one of Auburn's most iconic landmarks, attracting visitors from around the world who come to experience its breathtaking views and architectural significance.
Engineering Specifications
The Foresthill Bridge represents a remarkable achievement in concrete arch bridge construction, designed to withstand both seismic activity and extreme weather conditions.
- • Height: 730 feet above the American River
- • Length: 2,428 feet total span
- • Main Arch: 1,400 feet span
- • Construction: Completed in 1973
- • Cost: $13.5 million (1973 dollars)
- • Design: Concrete arch with steel reinforcement
Visitor Features
The bridge includes several features designed specifically for visitors to safely enjoy the spectacular views and learn about its construction.
- • Pedestrian Walkway: Safe viewing areas on both sides
- • Viewing Platforms: Designated photo spots
- • Interpretive Signs: Information about construction and history
- • Parking Areas: Convenient access on both ends
- • Safety Barriers: Protective railings throughout
- • Lighting: Illuminated for evening visits
Quarry Road Trail Access
Trail Information
The historic Quarry Road Trail provides access to the canyon floor beneath the Foresthill Bridge, offering hikers a unique perspective of this engineering marvel from below.
- • Distance: 6 miles round trip to river
- • Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
- • Elevation Loss: 700+ feet descent
- • Trail Surface: Old paved road, some loose rock
- • Time Required: 3-5 hours round trip
- • Best Season: Fall through spring
Trail Highlights
The trail follows the old quarry road used during bridge construction, providing access to swimming holes, fishing spots, and incredible bridge views from below.
- • Bridge Views: Spectacular upward views of the arch
- • American River: Swimming and fishing opportunities
- • Wildlife: Deer, birds, and other native species
- • Geology: Exposed rock formations and canyon walls
- • Photography: Unique angles of bridge and canyon
- • History: Remnants of construction equipment
Photography Guide
Best Viewpoints
- • Bridge center pedestrian walkway
- • Auburn side parking area
- • Foresthill side approach
- • Quarry Road Trail viewpoints
- • American River level (from below)
- • Distant canyon rim locations
Optimal Timing
- • Golden hour: 1 hour before sunset
- • Blue hour: 30 minutes after sunset
- • Early morning: Soft lighting
- • Overcast days: Even lighting
- • Clear days: Maximum visibility
- • Night photography: Bridge lighting
Photography Tips
- • Use wide-angle lens for full bridge
- • Telephoto for architectural details
- • Tripod essential for sharp images
- • Polarizing filter reduces haze
- • Multiple exposures for HDR
- • Include foreground elements
Important Safety Information
Bridge Safety
- • Stay within designated pedestrian areas
- • Do not climb on railings or barriers
- • High winds can be dangerous
- • No jumping or BASE jumping allowed
- • Supervise children at all times
- • Be aware of vehicle traffic
Trail Safety
- • Steep descent - use caution
- • Loose rocks and unstable surfaces
- • Bring plenty of water
- • Tell someone your hiking plans
- • Watch for rattlesnakes
- • River currents can be strong
Historical Context & Construction
Auburn Dam Project
The Foresthill Bridge was built as part of the ambitious Auburn Dam project, which would have created one of the largest dams in California. The bridge was constructed to maintain access to areas that would have been flooded by the proposed reservoir.
- • Planned as part of Auburn Dam project
- • Dam project began in 1967
- • Bridge completed in 1973
- • Dam project cancelled in 1977
- • Bridge remains as lasting legacy
Construction Challenges
Building the bridge required innovative engineering solutions to span the deep American River Canyon while withstanding California's seismic activity and extreme weather conditions.
- • Extreme canyon depth and width
- • Seismic design requirements
- • Remote construction location
- • Concrete arch construction techniques
- • Environmental considerations
Engineering Achievement
The Foresthill Bridge represents a significant achievement in concrete arch bridge construction. Its design incorporates advanced engineering principles to create a structure that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The bridge's graceful arch design has made it an iconic symbol of Auburn and a testament to human engineering capability.
Visitor Information
Getting There
- • Address: Foresthill Road, Auburn, CA 95631
- • From Auburn: 15 minutes via Foresthill Road
- • From Sacramento: 45 minutes via I-80 East
- • GPS Coordinates: 38.8889° N, 120.9444° W
- • Parking: Available on both sides of bridge
Facilities
- • Pedestrian walkways with safety barriers
- • Parking areas on both ends
- • Interpretive signage
- • No restroom facilities on bridge
- • Limited shade - bring sun protection
Best Times to Visit
- • Spring: Mild weather, wildflowers in canyon
- • Summer: Clear views, but can be very hot
- • Fall: Perfect weather, beautiful foliage
- • Winter: Clear days offer excellent visibility
- • Sunrise/Sunset: Optimal lighting for photography
What to Bring
- • Camera with extra batteries
- • Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
- • Water bottle
- • Comfortable walking shoes
- • Jacket for windy conditions
Events & Activities
Annual Events
- • Bridge anniversary celebrations
- • Photography workshops
- • Engineering education tours
- • Sunrise/sunset viewing events
- • Historical presentations
- • Community gatherings
Educational Opportunities
- • Engineering and construction history
- • Geology of American River Canyon
- • Local wildlife and ecology
- • Photography techniques
- • Auburn Dam project history
- • Bridge design principles
Nearby Activities
- • Quarry Road Trail hiking
- • American River recreation
- • Auburn State Recreation Area
- • Foresthill community exploration
- • Local dining and shopping
- • Other Auburn attractions
Experience California's Engineering Marvel
Stand 730 feet above the American River Canyon and marvel at one of California's most impressive bridges. Perfect for photography, sightseeing, and appreciating human engineering achievement.