Placer County approves Big Hill Preserve for Hidden Falls Regional Park expansion

The Placer County Board of Supervisors convened on November 5, 2024, to discuss significant developments regarding the Hidden Falls Regional Park Trails Expansion Project. Parks Administrator Andy Fisher presented updates on the expansion, which aims to enhance the park's capacity and accessibility while addressing community concerns.

Fisher highlighted that the park, which currently spans 1,200 acres and features 30 miles of trails, has seen a surge in popularity, necessitating a reservation system to manage visitor numbers effectively. The proposed expansion will add approximately 600 acres to the park, with plans for future growth into an additional 2,000 acres.

Key agenda items included the proposal to rename the new area as "Big Hill Preserve," which will be integrated into the existing Hidden Falls Regional Park. This naming strategy reflects the varying intensity of trail use across the park, with the more heavily trafficked areas retaining the Hidden Falls designation.

The board discussed several resolutions aimed at preparing for the park's expansion, including:
1. Adding the Big Hill Preserve to the Placer County Public Recreation Areas ordinance, which governs park operations and regulations.
2. Introducing parking restrictions around the park to prevent overflow and ensure safety, particularly along Bell and Kramer roads.
3. Approving a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Placer Land Trust, which outlines management responsibilities and conservation efforts for the new area.
4. Presenting updated vegetation and fuels management plans, which are crucial for fire risk mitigation and environmental stewardship.

Fisher emphasized the importance of community engagement and education, particularly regarding trail etiquette among diverse user groups, including equestrians and cyclists. Supervisors expressed support for enhancing public awareness and promoting courteous behavior among park visitors.

Public comments during the meeting raised concerns about parking enforcement and road safety, with suggestions for stricter regulations to prevent vehicles from obstructing access roads. The board acknowledged these concerns and committed to addressing them through improved enforcement strategies.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to expanding Hidden Falls Regional Park while ensuring sustainable management and community safety. The next steps include finalizing the proposed resolutions and continuing to engage with the public as the project progresses.