The South Fork of the American River Trail can be done as an out and back or one-way with a car shuttle at both ends for mountain bikers. Trail runners and hikers should do this trip as a one-way. Horse riders are also common on this trail. The trail follows the South Fork of the American River starting at Salmon Falls and ending at Cronan Ranch. The trail meanders up and down and through moderate tree cover, brush, and patches of open grassy areas.