In 1852, gold was discovered in old river gravels. During the brief gold era, this was Oregon's largest town. However, once all the gold had been found and the railroad bypassed Jacksonville, building or tearing down of the town stopped. In 1960s, the town was declared a historic landmark. This trail leads through parkland trails to an overlook of the city and Mt McLoughlin. After the viewpoint, it then descends into the city and goes through a section of this historic town.