E-3 ELK CREEK CLAIMS AT THE 5-MILE BRIDGE

LOCATION

RIVER: Elk Creek

COUNTY: Siskiyou County

STATE: California

The lower creek boundary is marked .1 of a mile upstream form the 5 mile bridge on Elk Creek Road. The 5 mile bridge is the first bridge which crosses Elk Creek. The first creek access and campground is located about .2 of a mile further upstream. When dredging in this area, please be careful not to disturb or undermine the special boulder fish weirs which have been constructed to improve the fishery habitat. The is a second access road and camping and camping area located 1.3 miles further up Elk Creek Road from the 5 mile bridge. The access road is a bit narrow and we suggest you look before driving in. The upper creek boundary is posted on a tree alongside the creek.

Members have done exceptionally well on these claims using dredges. The gold seems to come off bedrock and out of the lowest strata of gravels. Lots of nuggets and jewelry gold. Several members come back year after year to dredge these claims. Gravel depth can be shallow to 8 or 9 feet thick, depending on location. Most of the member activity has been at the lower portion of these claims. Prospects for the upper portion look just as promising.