This tree grew right through the middle of slate rock

If you take a few hours to wander along the south bank of the American River Canyon below Folsom Prison, you’ll find plenty of history — and a lot of rocks. There are remnants of the old canal that ran from the original Folsom dam to the powerhouse, and you can also find Indian grinding holes overlooking the river. It’s easy to spend half the day exploring this relatively small area, climbing over rocks and dodging blackberry bushes — and finding little surprises everywhere you go.