Environmental DNA (eDNA) detection techniques are gaining popularity as a means of surveying for rare and often cryptic amphibians. Land managers and regulatory agencies are beginning to request collection of these data as part of routine biological surveys for long-term monitoring, such as on hydroelectric relicensing projects. We present methods and results of an initial trial for one season of eDNA sampling efforts on stream reaches in the Plumas National Forest, targeting the Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog (Rana sierrae), a federally endangered species. We utilized both visual encounter surveys and eDNA riverine sampling to infer species presence/absence on three high-gradient intermittent stream reaches. Results from eDNA sampling were consistent with lack of detections in two reaches that were surveyed visually. At a third site, the species was detected visually but not with eDNA in August, and with eDNA but not visual surveys in September. This highlights the importance of identifying optimal methods for eDNA sampling based on site-specific environmental conditions, as well as the current benefits of continued incorporation of traditional methods when making management recommendations that may affect amphibian habitat.