Rubicon River in California

California is home to the Rubicon River, not to be confused with its Italian equivalent. It is a great source of life and activity that has spawned its own tourist industry as well as an economic central point that provides for many of the state's needs. Tourists cannot resist it multiple landscapes, towering mountains, deep valleys, picturesque reservoirs, raging whitewaters and peaceful, almost pond-like pools. It is a destination that has seen rise to whitewater rafting, fly fishing and campgrounds galore, dotted along it some sixty miles of length.

The Rubicon River is located in the north eastern section of California, not far from Lake Tahoe. It covers about sixty miles, including a one hundred and eighty-four square mile section of watershed. It has long since been a favorite destination for fishermen, rafters, campers and hikers. In fact, its beautiful scenery, which covers numerous mountains, forests, parks and recreation locations, attracts thousands of visitors annually. Many go to challenge its length by boat, others opting for viewing its magnificence from the safety of its undulating and sometimes high banks.

Considered one of the America River's main tributary, the Rubicon is fuelled by headwaters of melting snow and lingering creeks that begin their journey high up in the Sierra's Crystal Mountains, right in the heart of the area's Eldorado National Forest. In fact, not so long ago, the Rubicon was merely just known to many as the southern fork for the American River's middle fork.

The Rubicon begins at over nine thousand feet above sea level, close to El Dorado's Clyde Lake. Heading northwest for about some eight miles it continues until reaching the Rubicon Reservoir. It then continues on the same heading for another five miles until it is met up by the Little Rubicon River and Miller and Highland creeks. Its journey proceeds for five more miles, reaching the Hell Hole Reservoir. At this point its flow turns to the southwest, acting a division between Placer and El Dorado counties, finally joining up with its so-called southern form.

River originates at 9,900 feet (3,018 m) near Clyde Lake in El Dorado County. It flows north-northwest for approximately 8 mi (12.9 km) until it reaches the Rubicon Reservoir. The river then travels northwest and within 4.8 mi (7.7 km) of the Rubicon Reservoir is met by Highland Creek, Miller Creek and the Little Rubicon River. It continues northwest for approximately 5 mi (8 km) to Hell Hole Reservoir. Shortly after the river begins flowing southwest from the reservoir, it serves as a border between El Dorado and Placer Counties, and joins the South Fork of the Rubicon River.

The apparent southern fork starts near Look Lake, flowing southeast for three miles, and joining forces with the Gerle Creek. As it joins up with its northerly fork, the two currents combine, slowly veering northwest and meeting up with the American River, just outside of Auburn.

Enroute, both the southern and northern branches of the Rubicon River are host to many forms of recreation. Many trails, managed mainly by such forests as the Eldorado, are available for exploration, hiking and backpacking.

The main trail that follows the river's edge is one of the most popular. It follows the river length for some ten miles, far from any access to civilization or even a road. Some hike it, others run. However, the trail does double back on the opposite side of the river, so the route along is varied and the views different. The trail runs along the river's slopes, winding in unison with the river's flowing currents, and allowing for incredible views of its many gorges. In fact, it is possible in places to climb down and get up close and personal with the river, cool off in calmer sections or catch some needed fish for lunch or dinner. Though there is officially no real beginning or end for the trail, it is a destination where the no matter where it starts or ends, the scenery is breathtaking.

The trail can be hiked year round, unless January snowfalls make it impassible or even dangerous. Fishing is very popular, and local guides are happy to give private tours of some of the river's premier spots.