MODESTO— Nearly a year after its official opening and just in time for the peak summer season, California State Parks is opening new hiking trails at Dos Rios. Located just 8 miles west of Modesto, California’s newest state park will also host a number of events for the fourth annual California State Parks Week in June. Nearly 10,000 people have visited Dos Rios since its official opening in June 2024, and the park has steadily increased public access to the approximately 1,600-acre property.
What’s New?
Starting Friday, June 6, five new trails at Dos Rios will be open regularly from Friday to Sunday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Combined with the previously-opened trails, there are more than 16 miles of trails to explore at Dos Rios.
Here are details about the new trails and recreation opportunities:
- On the San Joaquin River Loop Trail (2.2 miles), visitors walk along the banks of the San Joaquin River for majestic views of ancient oak trees or swimming at Oak Beach.
- The Upper Tuolumne River (2.25 miles) and the Lower Tuolumne River (1.5 miles) trails connect with the existing Pond Loop Trail and give visitors a scenic walk along the clear waters of the Tuolumne River while providing access to Secret Beach for fishing and Willow Beach for swimming. Please note: Lifeguards may not be on duty, and swimming is at one’s own risk.
- Quail Trail (3.6 miles out-and-back) brings visitors through the heart of the forest floodplain with open views of the Diablo Mountains. And you just might spot a rabbit or two that are known to make their homes in this area.
- Beaver Bend Trail (1.4 miles one way) connects the Confluence Trail with the Lower Tuolumne River Loop Trail. This lush, shaded trail features glimpses into the riparian habitat where you can look for evidence of the beavers’ hard work overnight.
- Anglers may fish in certain areas of the Tuolumne and San Joaquin rivers and must adhere to all laws and regulations. All anglers 16 and older must have a valid California fishing license and keep it on their person for inspection by either California Department of Fish and Wildlife officers or State Park peace officers.
- No services are provided on the trails, so visitors are encouraged to bring all necessary food and water and carry out their waste for disposal in base camp (the day-use area).
- Dogs are welcome in base camp and on the Pond Loop and Confluence trails only. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet long at all times. Please bring water for your dog and pick up and pack out any waste as no trash services are provided on the trails.
California State Parks WeekThe fourth annual California State Parks Week begins Wednesday, June 11, with the theme “This is Where You Live.” The public is invited to participate in more than 170 events across the state, including in-person and virtual experiences. Here are a few taking place at Dos Rios:
- Exclusive Oxbow Pond Kayak on June 11: State Parks and the Tuolumne River Trust would like to welcome the community to kayak on Oxbow Pond from 6 to 8 p.m. and learn about the area’s biodiversity. Pond access and special evening hours are exclusive to this event. Registration is required. Please register at this
- Celebrating Latino Heritage and Culture at Dos Rios on June 14: From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., come and enjoy live music, a car show, taco truck, traditional Latino artisans, Nature Lotería, art, desserts, and more!
- Floodplain Fun Walk or Run on June 15: With newly opened trails along the floodplains, State Parks is bringing together a community of runners/walkers to raise awareness of the benefits of getting outside to support your mental health and general wellbeing. Special three- and five-mile routes are exclusive for this event.
The first two trails at Dos Rios, the Pond Loop and Confluence trails, opened in November 2024 while work progressed on additional recreation opportunities. As the park continues to grow with new trails and features, planning for expanded access for camping, fishing, boating, hiking, bicycling, water sports and other outdoor recreation activities will involve a public engagement process that includes consultation with area tribes. The public is invited to participate in the planning process to help shape the facilities and recreational offerings at Dos Rios. Visit plandosrios.org for more information and to join the planning mailing list.
