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    Emerald Pools

    4.8 (22 reviews)

    Emerald Pools Photos

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    Sheryl M.

    This spot had been on my list to check out for a couple of years and I am happy to finally experience this easy adventure. Basically, it a short hike (5 minutes) to a sweet swimming hole from a small river coming from Lake Spaulding. It's about a 15 minute drive from highway 80. I passed the trailhead with a potty structure but noticed several pull outs in case the trailhead parking is full. The spot has many rocks and uneven spots so be careful if your stability and mobility is easily compromised. While this spot is frequented, it looked to be litter free. I am sure if someone wanted to make the effort they could set up a nice picnic spot and carry in gear, coolers, etc.

    One of the Emerald pool
    Kenya D.

    Beautiful place! easy drive from reno. Get there early for front parking super easy walk, only 5 minutes from parking!

    Merry K.

    I was bracing for tons of hooman visiting this place on July 5th. It was busy, however, everybody were Comfortably spread out. We walked about 5min upstreams and there were less people. It was 90degree, so the water felt cold. We brave it and after a while we were happily frolicking. I would not want to be here over the weekends or holidays though. I could only imagine crowded it would be. Many kids and brave souls jumping from the cliff around the main pool. I was tempted, but I worry I may start a Tsunami.

    Sonya E.

    Arrived on Labor Day and this hidden gem was packed with lots and lots of visitors. Parking is very limited so I would suggest arriving early. The "hike" from the parking area to the actual pools is probably about 5 minutes. There is minimal shade once you get to the back so wear a hat, put on the good ol' sunscreen or just arrive early so you can snag a good spot. The water appears to be clean on one side and not so clean on another -- just use your best judgement if you're going for a dive. I saw many people of all ages cliff diving at the end of the pool but I didn't get to personally make it out there because I didn't bring swim wear (this adventure was impromptu). I would want to visit again on a weekday so it's less crowded. If you plan on visiting, consider bringing the following: * cooler with drinks and food so you can picnic * towels and mats to sit on (lots of uneven rocks in the area) * sunscreen and bug spray * trash bags to clean up after yourself * water shoes so you can walk in the water * Bluetooth speaker to listen to relaxing music (keep it low and be respectful of neighbors and animals) All in all, it's a beautiful place to check out. P.S. please keep Tahoe clean. It's horrible to see how visitors leave their trash all over the place. Basic etiquette: leave the place as you found it!

    I love this tranquil place.. But the terrain is a little rough but nice place.

    Beautiful tranquil place for all age groups loved the scenery and the water can't wait to get back there it was cool during these summer hot days

    Emerald green
    Lester F.

    Emerald pools is a well visited spot located on along the south Yuba River in Nevada County. The term "Pools" suggest there are more than one and yes there are several pockets of pools through. I visited this unique location on a Tuesday and it was fairly busy. These natural pools were surrounded by boulders, interplaying rocks, and unique canyon formations. The water source itself is feed by Lake Spaulding. The overall weather when we went was 89 degrees but the water felt like it was a brisk 40 degrees. It definitely brightened my day, as I dove into the water. There are shallow and deep parts of the pool, but parents should be mindful when bringing their children since there are no life guards on duty. This place is another reason why nature is great and why everyone should visit. So if you are near this area, take off your shoes and go for a dip.

    Be ready to hike! The views are amazing and the swimming is worth it! Not very much shade. Some sharp rocks along the way. Breathtaking!

    Emerald pools on the right, Goliath cliff jumping on the left.
    Korrie S.

    This is another lovely swim hole in out spectacular region of the Sierra Nevada. Takes about an hour to get to, but very easy to find. There is a massive cliff jump spot just west of the pools called Goliath. Took us some bushwhacking and tapping into our primitive navigation senses to find, so I've attached a photo of an apple map showing where in the river it is. Good luck!

    Janene K.

    It's beautiful! The short hike in is an easy trek for those that can walk but not a place for those having any difficulty with their legs and not wheel chair accessible. It was clean this past few weekends when we've gone up, I hope we can keep it that way, one of Our hidden gems, let's take care of it! These pictures are of the main pool and some of a hike we took. I think this spot has become one of our go too mini adventures.

    Indira A.

    Beautiful place for a hot summer day. It is very confusing to get to the pool. You have to hike. I was lost I had to follow someone. That's how I got there. The water was very cold. But the view was so worth it.

    Vic C.

    This place is beautiful. But the humans make it so trashed. You maybe in the forest but it feels and smells like a sani hut. Tons of waste. Tons of human waste. Many poop bags whips on the trail leading up to the water. Saw tampons and pasa. It's so sad. Breaks my heart. No respect for the environment and nature. This will be my first and last time i visit this swimming hole. This review is only based on the part i saw and visited. I'm sure there is a more pleasant area to be had.

    Emerald pool
    Chunyan L.

    The walk to the pools is like 5 mins. Make sure to bring sunscreen!!! Pool floats are recommended! Enjoy!

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    4 years ago

    Great Place to Cool Down From The Heat Of Summer. Clear and Cold Water, Lots Of Rocks and Lots Of Fun :)

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    6 years ago

    Amazing place to get lost and explore!!! Going back next week for more adventures!!!!

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    Ask the Community - Emerald Pools

    Are dogs allowed?

    Dogs are welcomed, but must be on a leash! And my personal recommendation, if you decide to take a pup near the water, put a doggy life vest on them since the waters can plunge deep by the edges of the rocks.

    View All 2 Questions

    Review Highlights - Emerald Pools

    Basically, it a short hike (5 minutes) to a sweet swimming hole from a small river coming from Lake Spaulding.

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    Pioneer Park - Swimming pool

    Pioneer Park

    (11 reviews)

    Pioneer Park is in the foothill town of Nevada City, CA. It's a beautiful 16 acre park with…read moregorgeous mature trees. There's a baseball field, basketball courts, tennis courts, bocce ball court, horseshoe pits, little league field, playground, green lawn space, picnic area, and bandshell. The walkways are paved and ADA. In addition, the public swimming pool and Lodge are located here. The park hosts summer concerts and special events. The Lodge is a hop skip n jump next door to the pool, playground, and basketball courts. It's an event building available for rent. It has a kitchen, restrooms, tables, chairs, projector, and seating for 120 for dining. There are picnic area throughout the park as well. The areas have tables, BBQs, and some have electrical hookups. These can be reserved via the parks and recreation website. There is a creek that runs through the park that's makes a beautiful trickling sound when the water flow is high. Peaceful vibes. But as in all public spaces, please be cautious and aware of your surroundings.

    Save your time & money instead of wasting it attending the water aerobics class. There's nothing…read moreaerobic about standing around in the pool waving your arms around like it's ballet class. Each year the quality of the class gets worse. I'm out for 2025's morning class until they get a real instructor. It's too bad since the pool is lovely. The evening class might be the saving grace by virtue of the young lifeguards who teach at 6pm.

    H2O Adventures - Chili bar

    H2O Adventures

    (758 reviews)

    I'm so glad I found H20 Adventures! We had so much fun on the half day South Fork lower gorge run…read more This is rated class 2/3 and perfect for the beginner like myself. I was really nervous at first and honestly wanted lazy river rafting with zero rapids, but after the experience with H20, I'm excited to plan another trip with them. The scenery was amazing, the late March weather was warm and as expected freezing water. We were provided with helmets, wetsuits, and splash jackets, this kept us warm and comfortable. You should bring water bottles and sunblock on the raft. Your other belongings are safely locked up prior to launch. You can also bring waterproof cameras or phones, be sure they are securely strapped to you (like chest or wrist strap, or helmet mount) they do have a professional cameraman kayaker Kevin taking amazing shots along the way so don't worry about not bringing your own camera. Nico, our tour guide was skilled, knowledgeable, and entertaining, and incredibly nice. We also had the opportunity to interact with the other tour guides Kyla and Martina who led the other two rafts on our 3 craft convoy down the river. If you are looking for something to do with your family this summer, I highly recommend H20. Get your reservations asap.

    What a great rafting trip! Nate and Marina were our guides for the trip. From the minute we checked…read morein the fun began.Marina did our safety briefing and it was as if you were being talked to like a sibling or friend.The humor sprinkled in the seriousness of the matter made it easier to swallow. They provide you with wetsuits,fleece and dry jackets and helmets. Nate was our guide on the water and what a fun awesome guide.Full of knowledge of the history about the rapids.Beautiful scenery with wildlife.He made us again feel like old friends but I really think he just truly enjoys rafting.Run and book this trip!

    Emerald Pools - hiking - Updated May 2026

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