Emerald Pools

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2 years ago

Just by looking at all of the gorgeous photos everyone has uploaded from their visit here to this spot.... you can tell that it's a hidden gem within. Nevada City didn't feel like that far of a drive from Sacramento and it really was an outdoor type oasis when we visited during the summer months. It's surrounded by lush forests and gorgeous waters from the upper Tahoe areas. There's a defined parking area so you're not just pulling off the side of the road. We had taken swim shorts and dressed for the ability to free swim and jump off the rocks so it really was the best blend of hiking, nature, and swimming all in one! I would love to return here for another visit when it gets past the chill factor of winter and snow! read more

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Lisa W.

Elite 26 All-Star

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2 years ago

Finally made it here! Been wanting to for years and I most definitely was not disappointed. Knowing how busy it can get we came on a Monday. We were able to find parking and it was an easy and pretty walk to the pools. My only regret was not having the right shoes as the rocks can be slippery. The water is clean and clear with a lovely green color. As the water was low the grandkids were able to wade, but it can be much fuller with rushing water earlier in the year. read more

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Sarah M.

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4 months ago

Beautiful visit when the water was so high! Normally so much lower and accessible. March 10 2026 read more

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Sheryl M.

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2 years ago

This spot had been on my list to check out for a couple of years and I am happy to finally experience this easy adventure. Basically, it a short hike (5 minutes) to a sweet swimming hole from a small river coming from Lake Spaulding. It's about a 15 minute drive from highway 80. I passed the trailhead with a potty structure but noticed several pull outs in case the trailhead parking is full. The spot has many rocks and uneven spots so be careful if your stability and mobility is easily compromised. While this spot is frequented, it looked to be litter free. I am sure if someone wanted to make the effort they could set up a nice picnic spot and carry in gear, coolers, etc. read more

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Kenya D.

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11 months ago

Beautiful place! easy drive from reno. Get there early for front parking super easy walk, only 5 minutes from parking! read more

Emerald Pools - One of the Emerald pool - Hiking Near Me - Nevada City, California

Emerald Pools - other side to the pools - Hiking Near Me - Nevada City, California

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Eric L.

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1 year ago

Need to get here early before all the rift raft show up. Nice place for a day trip if you don't mind cold water read more

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Merry K.

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5 years ago

I was bracing for tons of hooman visiting this place on July 5th. It was busy, however, everybody were Comfortably spread out. We walked about 5min upstreams and there were less people. It was 90degree, so the water felt cold. We brave it and after a while we were happily frolicking. I would not want to be here over the weekends or holidays though. I could only imagine crowded it would be. Many kids and brave souls jumping from the cliff around the main pool. I was tempted, but I worry I may start a Tsunami. read more

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Sonya E.

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6 years ago

Arrived on Labor Day and this hidden gem was packed with lots and lots of visitors. Parking is very limited so I would suggest arriving early. The "hike" from the parking area to the actual pools is probably about 5 minutes. There is minimal shade once you get to the back so wear a hat, put on the good ol' sunscreen or just arrive early so you can snag a good spot. The water appears to be clean on one side and not so clean on another -- just use your best judgement if you're going for a dive. I saw many people of all ages cliff diving at the end of the pool but I didn't get to personally make it out there because I didn't bring swim wear (this adventure was impromptu). I would want to visit again on a weekday so it's less crowded. If you plan on visiting, consider bringing the following: * cooler with drinks and food so you can picnic * towels and mats to sit on (lots of uneven rocks in the area) * sunscreen and bug spray * trash bags to clean up after yourself * water shoes so you can walk in the water * Bluetooth speaker to listen to relaxing music (keep it low and be respectful of neighbors and animals) All in all, it's a beautiful place to check out. P.S. please keep Tahoe clean. It's horrible to see how visitors leave their trash all over the place. Basic etiquette: leave the place as you found it! read more

Emerald Pools - Reminder - Hiking Near Me - Nevada City, California

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Lester F.

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6 years ago

Emerald pools is a well visited spot located on along the south Yuba River in Nevada County. The term "Pools" suggest there are more than one and yes there are several pockets of pools through. I visited this unique location on a Tuesday and it was fairly busy. These natural pools were surrounded by boulders, interplaying rocks, and unique canyon formations. The water source itself is feed by Lake Spaulding. The overall weather when we went was 89 degrees but the water felt like it was a brisk 40 degrees. It definitely brightened my day, as I dove into the water. There are shallow and deep parts of the pool, but parents should be mindful when bringing their children since there are no life guards on duty. This place is another reason why nature is great and why everyone should visit. So if you are near this area, take off your shoes and go for a dip. read more

Emerald Pools - Emerald green - Hiking Near Me - Nevada City, California

Emerald Pools - Hiking towards the pool - Hiking Near Me - Nevada City, California

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Lele A.

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2 years ago

Beautiful tranquil place for all age groups loved the scenery and the water can't wait to get back there it was cool during these summer hot days read more

Emerald Pools - I love this tranquil place.. But the terrain is a little rough but nice place. - Hiking Near Me - Nevada City, California

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Abigail L.

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2 years ago

Be ready to hike! The views are amazing and the swimming is worth it! Not very much shade. Some sharp rocks along the way. Breathtaking! read more

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Korrie S.

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3 years ago

This is another lovely swim hole in out spectacular region of the Sierra Nevada. Takes about an hour to get to, but very easy to find. There is a massive cliff jump spot just west of the pools called Goliath. Took us some bushwhacking and tapping into our primitive navigation senses to find, so I've attached a photo of an apple map showing where in the river it is. Good luck! read more

Emerald Pools - Emerald pools on the right, Goliath cliff jumping on the left. - Hiking Near Me - Nevada City, California

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Charlotte R.

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3 years ago

It was absolutely beautiful, but. I came with my husband and our 2 children, there was a couple that were sitting across from us, the woman decided to take their tops off... like how disrespectful! Especially when you see children, you should have more respect, this isn't a nudist beach it's a place we're families often visit. read more

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Janene K.

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5 years ago

It's beautiful! The short hike in is an easy trek for those that can walk but not a place for those having any difficulty with their legs and not wheel chair accessible. It was clean this past few weekends when we've gone up, I hope we can keep it that way, one of Our hidden gems, let's take care of it! These pictures are of the main pool and some of a hike we took. I think this spot has become one of our go too mini adventures. read more

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Sarah J.

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4 years ago

Absolutely beautiful Super short little walk no hiking needed, cold water lots of friendly snakes lol watch out for the rattlesnakes we seen one and he wanted to play. Came across a really cool it was massive, definitely a good exploring spot. read more

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Indira A.

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5 years ago

Beautiful place for a hot summer day. It is very confusing to get to the pool. You have to hike. I was lost I had to follow someone. That's how I got there. The water was very cold. But the view was so worth it. read more

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Vic C.

Elite 23

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6 years ago

This place is beautiful. But the humans make it so trashed. You maybe in the forest but it feels and smells like a sani hut. Tons of waste. Tons of human waste. Many poop bags whips on the trail leading up to the water. Saw tampons and pasa. It's so sad. Breaks my heart. No respect for the environment and nature. This will be my first and last time i visit this swimming hole. This review is only based on the part i saw and visited. I'm sure there is a more pleasant area to be had. read more

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Lynn H.

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4 years ago

Came here based on a bloggers review. Loved how peaceful and beautiful the scenery was. You need to get there earlier rather than later as the parking was full when we showed up at around 9 am on a Friday. The trail takes you right to the pools. Very pretty. No campfires allowed read more

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Chunyan L.

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6 years ago

The walk to the pools is like 5 mins. Make sure to bring sunscreen!!! Pool floats are recommended! Enjoy! read more

Emerald Pools - Emerald pool - Hiking Near Me - Nevada City, California

Emerald Pools - Walking to emerald pool, takes like 5 mins from parking. - Hiking Near Me - Nevada City, California

Emerald Pools - Bring a book and enjoy your day - Hiking Near Me - Nevada City, California

Emerald Pools - It's really relaxing - Hiking Near Me - Nevada City, California

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Krissy S.

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6 years ago

Beautiful 5 min hike to get there With crystal clear water dog friendly barbecuing is allowed with a permit read more

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Yamilex H.

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4 years ago

Great Place to Cool Down From The Heat Of Summer. Clear and Cold Water, Lots Of Rocks and Lots Of Fun :)

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B C.

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6 years ago

Amazing place to get lost and explore!!! Going back next week for more adventures!!!!

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More info about Emerald Pools

Emerald Pools Trail
Nevada City, CA 95959
Directions

Hours

What time does Emerald Pools open?

What time does Emerald Pools close?

Indoor Amenities

Does Emerald Pools allow dogs?

Yes, Emerald Pools allows dogs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Emerald Pools have parking?

Yes, Emerald Pools has parking options.

Review Highlights - Emerald Pools

“Basically, it a short hike (5 minutes) to a sweet swimming hole from a small river coming from Lake Spaulding.”

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Yuba River

4.8

(32 reviews)

19.6 mi

The water is so clear. Beautiful. Gorgeous blue water…read more. Truly amazing place A definitely must visit..

Every summer we look forward to coming here! We've been coming here for over twenty years now and…read moreit's been getting more and more populated. It used to be more secluded but it's nice to see to that more people are finding this spot as it is a,"Gem!" There are so many places here to hike and swim along the Yuba and you kind of work your way and find what works best with what you want out of it. The water is pristine...better than any swimming pool or ocean, IMO. You can open your eyes under water and it's never irritated. We usually bring our goggles but it's not necessary. There's endless places to sunbathe, without feeling invaded. Dogs are allowed on leashes but on this visit we did experience a dog taking a poo in the water, which kind of turned us off. Luckily, the owner noticed and he was able to take care of it, minutes later. The Yuba River is beautiful, you can't ask for better swimming conditions, there are a number of spots available if you travel up or down stream. The water is always emerald green and so clear when you dive under. If you're adventurous, there are some great spots to sunbathe nude... if you desire!

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Deer Creek Tribute Trail

4.6

(14 reviews)

20.6 mi

Great trail for a fall hike. The steepest part is the downhill from the trailhead. Everything else…read moreis a series of gradual inclines and looping trails. Go left after crossing the swinging bridge and you'll come to the water treatment plant. The trail is well marked. I was able to see where I was on my iPhone map the whole time. The bridge is a great photo op spot.

I wish it a bit longer of a path. But very kid-friendly. Path is well marked. Lots of fun things to…read moresee and interesting parts of the path. An old mine to the right of the trail. A wobbly suspension bridge (gulp). Lots of shade! Which was welcome on a very hot day. The water below looked lovely, but I didn't want to guide my 7-year old down there and get stuck. Definitely will need a shower after this hike! The tree canopy is delightful.

Take the trail to the site of a historic mine. Go right!

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Fuller Lake

4.7

(7 reviews)

20.0 mi

The best spot to spend time in quiet and fish, they got picnic areas to be there with your family…read moreand spend some quality time.

This is a bequtiful little trout lake About an hour above…read moreloomis ca. Ive taken my kids here for many years and now take their kids. Grrat plave for a picnik. Some casu a l float or bank fidhing with no noise and few people on weekdays. Easy access but not much parking.

So big boy '!!!!!!!!!

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Sunset at Fuller Lake

South Yuba River Trail and Campground

4.7

(9 reviews)

19.6 mi

Some places never leave you. For me, that's the South Yuba River Trail and what I've always…read moreaffectionately called the Old Bridge. I remember coming here as a kid with my dad. Crossing that old bridge felt like the scariest thing in the world. My dad would make us walk on the inside, away from the edge, while my imagination convinced me one wrong step meant certain doom. Funny how a place that once terrified me would become one of my favorite places on Earth. Over the years, I've returned time and time again. I've swum here with friends, spent long summer afternoons jumping off the rocks into those deep emerald pools, and just recently brought my son here so he could experience the same magic. Seeing it through his eyes reminded me why I fell in love with this place in the first place. On a warm summer day, this canyon is nothing short of a postcard. Crystal-clear water winds between massive granite boulders. The iconic canyon walls rise on both sides, and the sunshine pours in, lighting the river until it almost glows. Families spread out on the rocks, friends laugh from every swimming hole, and adventurous souls leap from cliffs into the refreshing water below. I've been to plenty of rivers, but few compare to this one. The deep swimming holes, the towering stone cliffs, the endless places to explore, and the unmistakable beauty of the canyon make it feel like one of California's true treasures. Some places are simply beautiful. Others become part of your story. The South Yuba River is both. It's a place that has followed me from childhood into adulthood, and now into fatherhood. Every visit reminds me that while life changes, some places never lose their magic.

We have been coming her for over 20 years, the water is always beautiful and we have meet some…read morereally great people here. We usually visit 2-3 times a year for 3-4 day weekends. We'll usually get down to purdon crossing around 11am and spend the entire afternoon enjoying the sun, shade where we can find it or make it and swimming. We have meet some really great single guys and couples there to share our picnic with, so if you ever see us on the river don't be shy and say Hi.

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Cascade Canal Trail

(3 reviews)

18.9 mi

If you are looking for some fall foliage and a lovely 8 mile RT walk this is your place ! It's so…read moregorgeous walking along the canal seeing baby salmon and the change of the colors on the trees! Well keep parking lot and walking trail !

Not a business but a beautiful hike along a water ditch in a beautiful forest. Flat trail. Dog…read morefriendly. Highly recommend.

Cattle dog in a water ditch

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Pioneer Park

4.3

(11 reviews)

19.4 mi

Pioneer Park is in the foothill town of Nevada City, CA. It's a beautiful 16 acre park with…read moregorgeous mature trees. There's a baseball field, basketball courts, tennis courts, bocce ball court, horseshoe pits, little league field, playground, green lawn space, picnic area, and bandshell. The walkways are paved and ADA. In addition, the public swimming pool and Lodge are located here. The park hosts summer concerts and special events. The Lodge is a hop skip n jump next door to the pool, playground, and basketball courts. It's an event building available for rent. It has a kitchen, restrooms, tables, chairs, projector, and seating for 120 for dining. There are picnic area throughout the park as well. The areas have tables, BBQs, and some have electrical hookups. These can be reserved via the parks and recreation website. There is a creek that runs through the park that's makes a beautiful trickling sound when the water flow is high. Peaceful vibes. But as in all public spaces, please be cautious and aware of your surroundings.

Save your time & money instead of wasting it attending the water aerobics class. There's nothing…read moreaerobic about standing around in the pool waving your arms around like it's ballet class. Each year the quality of the class gets worse. I'm out for 2025's morning class until they get a real instructor. It's too bad since the pool is lovely. The evening class might be the saving grace by virtue of the young lifeguards who teach at 6pm.

Horseshoe pits

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Tobiassen Park

3.0

(1 review)

19.6 mi

It's a small park, but nice and clean…read more It has a pond, picnic tables, and a baseball field. I was surprised we didn't see any human trash around. Not even in the pond. If you're lucky you'll see jays, robins, wood ducks, mallard ducks, swallows, hawks, geese, herons, and hummingbirds. You might also see turtles and fish. My man heard frogs at night, but we didn't see them in the daytime. There are a few mushrooms on the ground. We stayed in a shipping container that was turned into a nice AirBnB across the street from this park. It has a convenient trail to downtown Nevada City. If we brought the kids, I would have them play here. Maybe kick a ball around or chase each other. There's no playground structure, so you'd have to be creative to play here.

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H2O Adventures

(781 reviews)

37.5 mi

Our family recently experienced the Middle Fork whitewater rafting trip. It exceeded every…read moreexpectation and it was an unforgettable adventure. Our guide, Whalen, was absolutely outstanding. He was incredibly knowledgeable about the river and surrounding area, had a great sense of humor, and inspired confidence with his technical rafting skills. His ability to balance safety, fun, and education made the experience enjoyable for everyone. The rapids were exciting, the scenery was breathtaking, and the entire operation was first-class. The gear was top-notch, well-maintained, and comfortable, and the lunch provided was actually delicious. I highly recommend H20 Adventures and exceptional guide Whalen. It was one of the best family adventures we've had. We'll definitely be back!

We had a bad experience because two of our members got really sick and they strictly denied to…read morereschedule our rafting costing us 420 bucks telling us they have a strict policy and they won't reschedule we should have informed 72 hours before. How can someone inform 72 hours earlier if they are getting sick six hours before ? And we were just asking for a reschedule not a refund tbh. We were so excited for this but honestly disappointing customer service. The guy on call just won't listen giving us examples of football/basketball matches and on top of that calling us to ask us why we have given a one star review lol and asking us to grow up and be adult. Honestly, such a disappointment. Honestly not recommending it to any one. Have never experienced anywhere before in states. No rescheduling and on top of us telling us that we are faking out stories. In my opinion if a business cannot accommodate their customers in their emergency situations, it's not something you can recommend to others.

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Lunch by the river

Fuller Lake

4.7

(7 reviews)

20.0 mi

The best spot to spend time in quiet and fish, they got picnic areas to be there with your family…read moreand spend some quality time.

This is a bequtiful little trout lake About an hour above…read moreloomis ca. Ive taken my kids here for many years and now take their kids. Grrat plave for a picnik. Some casu a l float or bank fidhing with no noise and few people on weekdays. Easy access but not much parking.

So big boy '!!!!!!!!!

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Bullards Bar

4.0

(44 reviews)

26.7 mi

Amazing lake with incredible clear blue water! Felt like we…read morewere in the Bahamas. Great for camping and has store for supplies in case you run out. Truly a hidden gem!

Rented an 8 person ski boat for a Sunday in the middle of Summer. The process was super simple, I…read morecalled the day before our rental to ask a couple questions and the staff was super friendly and helpful. On the day of, the check in process was seamless. The lake is beautiful, the boat was wonderful, and we really couldn't have asked for a better experience. We will definitely be back to rent another boat!

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Clark's Hole

(3 reviews)

34.7 mi

Getting there early is key to securing a nice water spot. Plenty of space to park with bathrooms…read moreand park rangers onsite. $10 cash or card for daily parking fee. Pack light because some areas require a little hike to access. The general area is easy to reach and access water. I have a small secluded spot I hike down too and it's private and shaded all day.

"Life in us is like the water in a river." -- Henry David Thoreau…read more Just a short hike to Clark's Hole, a deep swimming hole on the North Fork American River, upriver of the confluence. In the early 1900s, Clarks Hole (also called Clarks Pool) was managed by the City of Auburn as a municipal swimming pool. Today, it is popular with Auburn locals for picnics and swim parties, especially on a hot days! No lifeguards. Please be careful!

Clark's Hole

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Clark's Hole

Bowman Solinsky Pool

4.0

(6 reviews)

20.5 mi

My daughter has had swim lessons here since she was 6 months old and it has provided years of…read moreexperience and training for her. The temperature of the water is warm so she was instantly more comfortable learning and she has advanced well for her age. We are so thankful for this pool and especially for Ina, her swim instructor.

I believe the only indoor pool in the area. Used as both a warm water therapy pool and for swim…read morelessons. Great "sauna" in the winter months for observers, but next to intolerable in the summer. The instructor Ina, knows her stuff.

Calanan Park

(3 reviews)

19.7 mi

My hubby and I stopped by with our toddler and she had a blast at Calanan Park Children's Corner!!…read moreShe played with the vehicles in the sandbox, clanged the wind chimes and played pretend with the dish-ware on their play stove! I surprised my eldest with My Sticker Album from their Little Free Library and she loved it! Calanan Park also has a fascinating outdoor gold mining museum! We'll definitely be returning to explore more! Our toddler didn't want to leave, great way to get her energy out! SYOY! :-)

Calanan Park is in Nevada City, CA. It's not a full sized park but more of compact corner plaza…read moreoffering a few benches and seating ledges to take a load off and relics from the 1800s Gold Rush era local mining industry. The walkways are ADA. The green space has various plants and trees. The superstar standout is an impressive double headed coastal Sequoia redwood tree. There's alot of beauty and history packed into the small Calanan Park. The relics have plaques describing the item and historical importance. Items include a hydraulic water monitor, 1880 water gate valve, and 1935 shaft drill core. Also there is a dedication to Ellen Clark Sargent, prominent suffragist (1826-1911). A native of Massachusetts, she arrived in Nevada City in 1852. She carried her involvement of women's suffragist with her; becoming the president of the California Women's Suffrage Association and leading endless campaigning. In 1878, the 19th amendment for the women's right to vote was introduced to US constitution by her husband, U. S. SenatorA.A. Sargent. Even though that would not pass until 1920. In 1911, California women won the right to vote in October. Ellen passed in July of that year.