The Upper and Lower Flumes Trails both start at the same parking area.   The Upper Flumes Trail follows Bear Creek upstream, through the creek gully and up the ridge, tracing the route for the Flumes placed there one hundred years ago.   The Lower Flumes Trail follows Bear Creek downstream until it meets Adams River, then splits to go upstream or downstream.  

This leaves the hiker with decisions.  Right or left, loop or out and back?   The best choice is to do both trails, out and back.   This avoids walking along Holding Road, which has a narrow shoulder and is not scenic.   It also means seeing both sides of the trail.   Follow the trail down Bear Creek to the junction.

The upstream route crosses a bridge and follows a narrow track upstream for 1.2 km.   A side track comes in on the left.   This is the route up to the road.   Stay on the river trail for a short distance.   The trail more or less ends at Lions Head, a small bluff jutting out in to the river.   This is a popular spot for swimmers because of the back eddy in the small bay.   It is also a scenic spot for lunch.  Return by the same route.

The downstream route climbs over a small bluff and ridge, then descends down to a riverside trail.   After almost 0.7 km, the trail comes underneath bluffs below the road, then winds up an interesting route to the road.   It would be nice if the trail went all the way down, but it doesn't.   Numerous bluffs and the gorge prevent a through trail.   So, follow the route downstream then retrace your steps instead of going to Holdings Road.  

If you do both sides you will be hiking about 3.1 km.   Enjoy the creek and river; stop for lunch.   Combine this route with the Upper Flumes Trail.   Best seasons are summer to enjoy a swim or fall to enjoy fall colors and no one around.