Saturday, August 20, 2011
Monday, August 1, 2011
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Ales and Trails 2011 Date Announced
Looks like this year's Ales and Trails event in San Rafael will again be at China Camp and will take place on May 21, 2011 from 9-4. This is a great event for novices and experts alike, and there are even events for kids. There's no info yet on the specifics (such as whether pro-rider David Wiens will attend and lead a ride), but keep checking the Ales and Trails website.
Great Non-technical Training Ride for Sea Otter Classic
Saturday I skipped the trek up to the top of TAM and instead did two laps of the Shaver-Lagunitas-Eldridge loop. Once I hit four corners at mile 9, I climbed Shaver grade and did the loop again.
This is a great way to log about 2700 feet of elevation gain, and around 18 miles (more if you bike to Ross from Larkspur), without punishing yourself with 2400 feet of straight climbing and the very rocky sections on the last mile or so of Eldridge grade.
This is a great way to log about 2700 feet of elevation gain, and around 18 miles (more if you bike to Ross from Larkspur), without punishing yourself with 2400 feet of straight climbing and the very rocky sections on the last mile or so of Eldridge grade.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Friday, February 11, 2011
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Great Beginner/Intermediate Loop on Mount Tam
Unless you're looking for an entirely flat ride, the Shaver-Laguinitas-Eldridge Loop offers probably the best loop on Mount Tam for beginning riders. While there are still a couple of short tough climbs, this ride takes you past Lake Phoenix and up Shaver Grade, which is fairly dry right now, and then up to Sky Oaks Road. Sky Oaks takes you past Bon Tempe Lake and dead ends at the trail head up to Lagunitas Dam. You can then circle Lake Lagunitas and after a short climb up to Eldridge, have a fun ride down Eldridge Grade back to Phoenix Lake. If the climb up Shaver is too taxing, then you can turn around for a fun out and back ride; if you make it to Sky Oaks but don't want any more climbing, then you can head down Fish Gulch back to Lake Phoenix. Check out the posts from yesterday for some of the great views along the way.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Five Corners From Shaver Grade
Monday, January 31, 2011
Tamarancho Marin Single Track Mountain Biking Trails
Unless you want to take your chances with Rangers from the Marin water district, one of the only truly legal places to ride single track in Marin is on Camp Tamarancho. This great network of mountain bike trails is maintained by the boy scouts and requires a pass, which you can purchase for the day or by the season at Boy Scouts of Marin.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Mountain Biking Events
In case Sea Otter and Downieville leave you wanting more, check out the MTB Calendar of mountain biking events which lists events throughout Northern California, the West and the entire US.
Downieville Classic - July 8-10, 2011
The Sea Otter Classic is of course only a warm up to the more thrilling and intense Downieville Classic. Just reading the description for the cross country mountain bike race with over 5000 feet of descent gets my heart pounding ... Get out and ride!
Only 2 and 1/2 Months to Sea Otter Classic
Marin's Mount Tamalpais provides the best place in the Bay Area to train for the Sea Otter Classic in Monterey. And with only two and a half months until this epic race is upon us, it's time to start training. It's not too late to sign up for the Sea Otter Classic Mountain Bike Races - I confess I'm a wimp and always sign up for the category three cross country mountain bike race.
Sea Otter typically serves up over 20 miles of racing with 2800+ of elevation gain. Mt Tam has several loops, check out earlier posts and www.marinfattire.com, that will train you well for Sea Otter's distance and climbs. The only thing missing is some of the steep sandy descents where only a little faith will pull you through. Time to start training and see you in Monterey in April!!!
Sea Otter typically serves up over 20 miles of racing with 2800+ of elevation gain. Mt Tam has several loops, check out earlier posts and www.marinfattire.com, that will train you well for Sea Otter's distance and climbs. The only thing missing is some of the steep sandy descents where only a little faith will pull you through. Time to start training and see you in Monterey in April!!!
Saturday, January 29, 2011
China Camp Mountain Bike Loop
China Camp Bay View - Shoreline Mountain Bike Trail - 9.7 miles, est. 1200 elevation gain
(Here's what many mountain bikers view as the classic mountain bike trail around China Camp. This loop covers almost 10 miles, takes you around some of China Camps best mountain biking singletrack, and affords great views of San Pablo and San Francisco Bays and the surrounding bridges and mountains. Excellent beginner or intermediate loop.)
Directions: 101 North; N. San Pedro Road Exit (East); Park outside the Campground entrance on San Pedro.
Ride: The ride begins just past the gate on Bay View Trail when you enter the park.
0.0 Proceed up Bay View Trail bearing Right at the first intersection.
.44 (R) on Bay View and begin the worst part of climbing you'll do all day up a rutty fireroad;
.73 trail flattens out a bit; stay Left at any intersections
.84 (Right) sign says Bay View to Back Ranch; cross two footbridges; and begin a fun stretch of singletrack
1.75 (Left) at intersection proceeding over third footbridge;
2.23 (Left) at intersection with Back Ranch and then an immediate
2.37 (Right) on Bay View and enjoy yet another great stretch of single track;
3.58 Stay Left at intersection
4.18 (Right) on Oak Ridge Trail
4.54 Stay on Oak Ridge Trail and enjoy the incredible views
5.16 Stay Left at intersection
5.24 (Left) on Shoreline towards Miwok, heading back towards San Pedro Road
6.98 (Stay on Shoreline which is now a fireroad that takes you into a picnic area)
7.3 Rejoin the singletrack section of Shoreline
7.75 (Left) staying on Shoreline
8.08 (Left) on Shoreline (OR END EARLY AND TAKE SAN PEDRO BACK TO YOUR CAR)
8.3 (Left) climbing slight on Shoreline (sign say to Back Ranch)
8.8 Straight on Shoreline Across Back Ranch.
9.05 (Right) staying on Shoreline around campground entry road staying on trail
9.5 Shoreline dumps you back into Bay view.
9.7 End - Back at Gate near Camp Ground Entrace
(Here's what many mountain bikers view as the classic mountain bike trail around China Camp. This loop covers almost 10 miles, takes you around some of China Camps best mountain biking singletrack, and affords great views of San Pablo and San Francisco Bays and the surrounding bridges and mountains. Excellent beginner or intermediate loop.)
Directions: 101 North; N. San Pedro Road Exit (East); Park outside the Campground entrance on San Pedro.
Ride: The ride begins just past the gate on Bay View Trail when you enter the park.
0.0 Proceed up Bay View Trail bearing Right at the first intersection.
.44 (R) on Bay View and begin the worst part of climbing you'll do all day up a rutty fireroad;
.73 trail flattens out a bit; stay Left at any intersections
.84 (Right) sign says Bay View to Back Ranch; cross two footbridges; and begin a fun stretch of singletrack
1.75 (Left) at intersection proceeding over third footbridge;
2.23 (Left) at intersection with Back Ranch and then an immediate
2.37 (Right) on Bay View and enjoy yet another great stretch of single track;
3.58 Stay Left at intersection
4.18 (Right) on Oak Ridge Trail
4.54 Stay on Oak Ridge Trail and enjoy the incredible views
5.16 Stay Left at intersection
5.24 (Left) on Shoreline towards Miwok, heading back towards San Pedro Road
6.98 (Stay on Shoreline which is now a fireroad that takes you into a picnic area)
7.3 Rejoin the singletrack section of Shoreline
7.75 (Left) staying on Shoreline
8.08 (Left) on Shoreline (OR END EARLY AND TAKE SAN PEDRO BACK TO YOUR CAR)
8.3 (Left) climbing slight on Shoreline (sign say to Back Ranch)
8.8 Straight on Shoreline Across Back Ranch.
9.05 (Right) staying on Shoreline around campground entry road staying on trail
9.5 Shoreline dumps you back into Bay view.
9.7 End - Back at Gate near Camp Ground Entrace
Quick Mountain Bike Loop on Mt Tamalpais
Mt Tam Bike Trail - Eldridge-Fish Gulch Quick Loop - 9 miles; 1284' elevation gain - Ross, CA
(A great one hour or less mountain bike training ride or 1.5-2.5 hour loop for beginner-intermediate riders up Eldridge Grade, around a beautiful wooded trail on Lake Lagunitas, and down Fish Gulch. A great way of sampling some of the best riding and views that Mt Tam has to offer. )
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake (west); left on Lagunitas Road; immediate left and park in downtown Ross.
Ride:
0.0 Left on Lagunitas Road to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.1 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads into the woods.
2.1 Left on Eldridge at a four-way intersection with Shaver Grade (hard right) and Fish Gulch (straight).
2.9 (450’) Left and continue up Eldridge. You’ll hit a couple of trying 30-50' climbs that will test your lung capacity and balance, but otherwise, it's a smooth fireroad with great views.
4.2 (980’) Right on Lakeview. (BUT FIRST - Go Left a few hundred yards and take in the great views, and then head back down.) After a few tight turns, this launches your bike into a fast slight downhill and heads into some redwoods where you’ll take a Left.
4.8 Left on Lagunitas and bearing right at any intersections, taking you around beautiful Lake Lagunitas, and crossing three wooden footbridges.
5.8 Right at a small sign that reads “walk your bike the next 150 feet”. The trail continues across Lagunitas Dam.
5.9 Left downhill into a parking lot and head out Sky Oaks Road for a few hunderd yards.
6.2 Right down a paved trail/road and prepare to aim your bike Left onto another fireroad.
6.4 Left on the Fish Gulch Trail and get ready for a very steep and fast descent back to the four-way intersection with Shaver and Eldridge. (NOTE: you'll find yourself exceeding the trail limits quickly and then find yourself facing very sharp curves. Check your bike brakes before heading down. Nothing technical here, just be smart about your descent.).
7.0 Straight through 4-way with Shaver Grade and Eldridge (where you began your climb) back around Phoenix Lake to trailhead.
8.0 Arrive at Natalie Coffin Green Park, and ride down Lagunitas Road to Ross.
9.0 Arrive Ross Common.
(A great one hour or less mountain bike training ride or 1.5-2.5 hour loop for beginner-intermediate riders up Eldridge Grade, around a beautiful wooded trail on Lake Lagunitas, and down Fish Gulch. A great way of sampling some of the best riding and views that Mt Tam has to offer. )
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake (west); left on Lagunitas Road; immediate left and park in downtown Ross.
Ride:
0.0 Left on Lagunitas Road to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.1 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads into the woods.
2.1 Left on Eldridge at a four-way intersection with Shaver Grade (hard right) and Fish Gulch (straight).
2.9 (450’) Left and continue up Eldridge. You’ll hit a couple of trying 30-50' climbs that will test your lung capacity and balance, but otherwise, it's a smooth fireroad with great views.
4.2 (980’) Right on Lakeview. (BUT FIRST - Go Left a few hundred yards and take in the great views, and then head back down.) After a few tight turns, this launches your bike into a fast slight downhill and heads into some redwoods where you’ll take a Left.
4.8 Left on Lagunitas and bearing right at any intersections, taking you around beautiful Lake Lagunitas, and crossing three wooden footbridges.
5.8 Right at a small sign that reads “walk your bike the next 150 feet”. The trail continues across Lagunitas Dam.
5.9 Left downhill into a parking lot and head out Sky Oaks Road for a few hunderd yards.
6.2 Right down a paved trail/road and prepare to aim your bike Left onto another fireroad.
6.4 Left on the Fish Gulch Trail and get ready for a very steep and fast descent back to the four-way intersection with Shaver and Eldridge. (NOTE: you'll find yourself exceeding the trail limits quickly and then find yourself facing very sharp curves. Check your bike brakes before heading down. Nothing technical here, just be smart about your descent.).
7.0 Straight through 4-way with Shaver Grade and Eldridge (where you began your climb) back around Phoenix Lake to trailhead.
8.0 Arrive at Natalie Coffin Green Park, and ride down Lagunitas Road to Ross.
9.0 Arrive Ross Common.
Shaver Grade - Lake Lagunitas Mountain Biking (DOUBLE) Loop
Mt. Tam – Shaver Grade, Lake Lagunitas, Eldridge Loop – 11.1 miles; 1484’ Elevation Gain - Ross, CA
(This mountain bike trail loop lets you take in some of the great bike trails and views around Mt. Tam without having to summit the beast. Gradual climbs, fun descents, and beautiful scenery.)
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake (west); left on Lagunitas Road; immediate left and park in downtown Ross.
Ride:
0.0 Left on Lagunitas Road to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.1 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads away from the lake.
2.1 Right onto Shaver Grade at four-way intersection.
3.1 Hard Left at Five Corners.
3.8 Left on Sky Oaks Rd (paved), which takes you downhill past Bon Tempe to the Lake Lagunitas trailhead – look for the trailhead at the last parking lot you reach.
5.0 Head up the trail near the sign marked “Lagunitas Dam”, and Right across Lake Lagunitas Dam and stay left across a narrow trail.
5.3 Left on Lagunitas Rd (a trail) and continue around Lake Lagunitas continuing to stay left at any intersections. After you’ve crossed your 3RD Footbridge, you’ll hit an intersection with Lakeview and sign indicating how to get to Eldridge.
6.3 Right on Lakeview climbing up towards Eldridge Grade.
6.9 Left on Eldridge Grade, enjoy the great descent down Eldridge.
7.7 Bear left down a steep section and continue on Eldridge.
8.2 At a 3-way intersection, bear right continuing down Eldridge.
9.0 Right at the 4-way intersection with Shaver Grade continuing around Phoenix Lake back to the Natalie Coffin Greene trailhead. (OR CONTINUE BACK UP SHAVER FOR A DOUBLE LOOP - SEE BELOW)
10.0 Head down Lagunitas Rd towards Ross.
11.1 Arrive Ross Common.
Strava Data for the loop done twice:
(This mountain bike trail loop lets you take in some of the great bike trails and views around Mt. Tam without having to summit the beast. Gradual climbs, fun descents, and beautiful scenery.)
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake (west); left on Lagunitas Road; immediate left and park in downtown Ross.
Ride:
0.0 Left on Lagunitas Road to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.1 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads away from the lake.
2.1 Right onto Shaver Grade at four-way intersection.
3.1 Hard Left at Five Corners.
3.8 Left on Sky Oaks Rd (paved), which takes you downhill past Bon Tempe to the Lake Lagunitas trailhead – look for the trailhead at the last parking lot you reach.
5.0 Head up the trail near the sign marked “Lagunitas Dam”, and Right across Lake Lagunitas Dam and stay left across a narrow trail.
5.3 Left on Lagunitas Rd (a trail) and continue around Lake Lagunitas continuing to stay left at any intersections. After you’ve crossed your 3RD Footbridge, you’ll hit an intersection with Lakeview and sign indicating how to get to Eldridge.
6.3 Right on Lakeview climbing up towards Eldridge Grade.
6.9 Left on Eldridge Grade, enjoy the great descent down Eldridge.
7.7 Bear left down a steep section and continue on Eldridge.
8.2 At a 3-way intersection, bear right continuing down Eldridge.
9.0 Right at the 4-way intersection with Shaver Grade continuing around Phoenix Lake back to the Natalie Coffin Greene trailhead. (OR CONTINUE BACK UP SHAVER FOR A DOUBLE LOOP - SEE BELOW)
10.0 Head down Lagunitas Rd towards Ross.
11.1 Arrive Ross Common.
Strava Data for the loop done twice:
Fairfax California Mountain Bike Loop
Fairfax Destination Mountain Bike Trail - 11.8 Miles; 1400' elevation gain -
(This is a great mountain bike loop that covers the following mountain Bike Trails: Deer Park, Lake Lagunitas, Eldridge, Shaver Grade - and takes you around beatiful Lake Lagunitas and down some great stretches of Eldridge ) – Leave from Fairfax, CA
Destination: Park near Iron Springs Pub, 747 Center Blvd., Fairfax, for a hearty lunch and some cold-ones post ride. (Note: there’s free parking at Deer Park, but it may be full. If you bike from there, just subtract 1.3 miles from each distance.)
0.0 From Iron Springs Pub head West on Center Blvd which becomes Broadway Blvd.
0.3 Left on Bolinas Road
0.8 Left on Porteous and stay right on Porteous until you hit Deer Park
1.3 At Deer Park ride around the left side of the recreation center, across the field to the trail head and up the trail.
2.0 Stay Left on the trail towards Five Corners.
2.4 Arrive at Five Corners and proceed straight through the intersection heading uphill on Shaver Grade.
3.1 Left on Skye Oaks Rd (paved), which takes you to the Lake Lagunitas trailhead – look for the trailhead at the last parking lot you reach.
4.3 Head up the trail near the sign marked “Lagunitas Dam”, and go right across Lake Lagunitas Dam and stay left across a narrow trail.
4.6 Left on Lagunitas Rd (a trail) and continue around Lake Lagunitas continuing to bear left at any intersections. After you’ve crossed your 3RD Footbridge, you’ll hit an intersection with Lakeview and sign indicating how to get to Eldridge.
5.6. Right on Lakeview climbing up towards Eldridge Grade.
6.2 Left on Eldridge, enjoy the great descent down Eldridge.
7.0 Stay left down a steep section and continue on Eldridge.
7.5 At a 3-way intersection, go right continuing down Eldridge.
8.3 At a 4-way intersection continue straight through and up Shaver back towards five corners.
9.3 Bear right at Five Corners (second right) on Deer Park.
10.5 Arrive back at and backtrack down Porteous, Bolinas, Broadway and Center back to Iron Springs Pub.
11.8 Iron Springs Pub.
(This is a great mountain bike loop that covers the following mountain Bike Trails: Deer Park, Lake Lagunitas, Eldridge, Shaver Grade - and takes you around beatiful Lake Lagunitas and down some great stretches of Eldridge ) – Leave from Fairfax, CA
Destination: Park near Iron Springs Pub, 747 Center Blvd., Fairfax, for a hearty lunch and some cold-ones post ride. (Note: there’s free parking at Deer Park, but it may be full. If you bike from there, just subtract 1.3 miles from each distance.)
0.0 From Iron Springs Pub head West on Center Blvd which becomes Broadway Blvd.
0.3 Left on Bolinas Road
0.8 Left on Porteous and stay right on Porteous until you hit Deer Park
1.3 At Deer Park ride around the left side of the recreation center, across the field to the trail head and up the trail.
2.0 Stay Left on the trail towards Five Corners.
2.4 Arrive at Five Corners and proceed straight through the intersection heading uphill on Shaver Grade.
3.1 Left on Skye Oaks Rd (paved), which takes you to the Lake Lagunitas trailhead – look for the trailhead at the last parking lot you reach.
4.3 Head up the trail near the sign marked “Lagunitas Dam”, and go right across Lake Lagunitas Dam and stay left across a narrow trail.
4.6 Left on Lagunitas Rd (a trail) and continue around Lake Lagunitas continuing to bear left at any intersections. After you’ve crossed your 3RD Footbridge, you’ll hit an intersection with Lakeview and sign indicating how to get to Eldridge.
5.6. Right on Lakeview climbing up towards Eldridge Grade.
6.2 Left on Eldridge, enjoy the great descent down Eldridge.
7.0 Stay left down a steep section and continue on Eldridge.
7.5 At a 3-way intersection, go right continuing down Eldridge.
8.3 At a 4-way intersection continue straight through and up Shaver back towards five corners.
9.3 Bear right at Five Corners (second right) on Deer Park.
10.5 Arrive back at and backtrack down Porteous, Bolinas, Broadway and Center back to Iron Springs Pub.
11.8 Iron Springs Pub.
Larkspur California Mountain Bike Loop
Larkspur Destination Loop Mountain Bike Trail – 12.1 miles; 1500’ elevation gain
Begin at Cafe Emporio Rulli, 464 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur, CA, head through Ross, around Lake Phoenix, and enjoy great views from Eldridge Grade and Blithedale Ridge and other great mountain bike trails. Return back to downtown Larkspur for more coffee or lunch at a number of great restaurants.
0.0 Head West on Magnolia towards Ross.
1.3 Bear left on Kent Woodlands past Woodlands Market towards Ross Commons.
2.2 Turn left on Lagunitas Road.
3.3 Head up the trail in Natalie Coffin Greene park.
4.3 Left on Eldridge Grade at a 4-way intersection.
5.1 (450’) Continue left on Eldridge Grade.
6.4 (980’) Eldridge Grade continues to the left (and Lakeview heads down towards Lake Lagunitas to the right) and on this stretch you enjoy great views of the bay.
7.5 (1450’) Left on Indian Fire Road (Eldridge Grade continues straight up another 2.6 miles to the East Peak of Mt. Tam) and head down about .5 miles where you’ll see a trail on the right heading downhill.
8.1 Left on Blithedale Ridge – This is one of the most beautiful trails out here as it divides Mills Valley from the Bay, but take it easy as there are some very steep off-camber turns.
9.1 Left on Marin Southern Road (Crown Rd on some maps) (a trail) that takes you around a few switchbacks then along a 1.5 miles flat ridge.
11.1 Pass through the gate down Sunrise Lane. From here, there are a number of very steep, narrow paved roads that all ultimately take you down to Magnolia Ave (or Corte Madera Ave, which is what it’s called in Corte Madera) LEFT slightly uphill on Marin Vista; Left Ardmore, Left on Park Way.
11.5 or so Left on Magnolia/Corte Madera Ave.
12.1 Arrive back at Cafe Emporio Rulli.
Begin at Cafe Emporio Rulli, 464 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur, CA, head through Ross, around Lake Phoenix, and enjoy great views from Eldridge Grade and Blithedale Ridge and other great mountain bike trails. Return back to downtown Larkspur for more coffee or lunch at a number of great restaurants.
0.0 Head West on Magnolia towards Ross.
1.3 Bear left on Kent Woodlands past Woodlands Market towards Ross Commons.
2.2 Turn left on Lagunitas Road.
3.3 Head up the trail in Natalie Coffin Greene park.
4.3 Left on Eldridge Grade at a 4-way intersection.
5.1 (450’) Continue left on Eldridge Grade.
6.4 (980’) Eldridge Grade continues to the left (and Lakeview heads down towards Lake Lagunitas to the right) and on this stretch you enjoy great views of the bay.
7.5 (1450’) Left on Indian Fire Road (Eldridge Grade continues straight up another 2.6 miles to the East Peak of Mt. Tam) and head down about .5 miles where you’ll see a trail on the right heading downhill.
8.1 Left on Blithedale Ridge – This is one of the most beautiful trails out here as it divides Mills Valley from the Bay, but take it easy as there are some very steep off-camber turns.
9.1 Left on Marin Southern Road (Crown Rd on some maps) (a trail) that takes you around a few switchbacks then along a 1.5 miles flat ridge.
11.1 Pass through the gate down Sunrise Lane. From here, there are a number of very steep, narrow paved roads that all ultimately take you down to Magnolia Ave (or Corte Madera Ave, which is what it’s called in Corte Madera) LEFT slightly uphill on Marin Vista; Left Ardmore, Left on Park Way.
11.5 or so Left on Magnolia/Corte Madera Ave.
12.1 Arrive back at Cafe Emporio Rulli.
Rocky Ridge-Eldridge-Three Lakes Loop on Mt Tam
Mt. Tam – (Rocky Ridge-Eldridge-Three Lakes- Loop) Mountain Bike Trail – 13.1 miles; +1790’
(Begin this mountain bike loop with a great warm-up around Phoenix Lake, up Shaver Grade, and across magnificent Bon Tempe Lake Dam, and then challenge yourself with a tough climb up Rocky Ridge. You’ll be rewarded again with a great descent down towards Lake Lagunitas, and a fun ride down Eldridge.)
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake West; Left on Lagunitas; immediate Left and park near Ross Commons.
Ride:
0.0 Leftt on Lagunitas Road to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.1 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads away from the lake.
2.1 Right onto Shaver Grade at four-way intersection.
3.1 Hard Left at Five Corners.
3.8 Right on Sky Oaks,
3.9 Left on Bullfrog Rd (gravel road).
4.3 Left into parking lot, head up trail bearing right, and ride across the Bon Tempe Lake dam between Bon Tempe Lake and Alpine Lake.
4.6 Left onto Rocky Ridge and prepare yourself for a tough climb for the next .6 miles.
6.5 Left onto Rocky Spring – Lagunitas (and mercifully it’s all downhill to Lake Lagunitas from here).
7.4 Right on Lagunitas continuing around Lake Lagunitas crossing 3 wooden footbridges.
8.3 Right on Lakeview climbing up towards Eldridge Grade.
9.0 Left on Eldridge Grade, and enjoy the great descent down Eldridge.
9.8 Left down a steep section and continue on Eldridge.
10.3 At a 3-way intersection, bear right continuing down Eldridge.
11.1 Right at the 4-way intersection with Shaver continuing around Phoenix Lake back to the Natalie Coffin Greene trailhead.
12.1 Head down Lagunitas Rd towards Ross.
13.1 Arrive Ross Common.
(If the Rocky Ridge climb doesn't dish out enough climbing for you, try the Sea Otter Classic Training ride which takes you up Rocky Ridge and to the top of Mt. Tam!)
(Begin this mountain bike loop with a great warm-up around Phoenix Lake, up Shaver Grade, and across magnificent Bon Tempe Lake Dam, and then challenge yourself with a tough climb up Rocky Ridge. You’ll be rewarded again with a great descent down towards Lake Lagunitas, and a fun ride down Eldridge.)
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake West; Left on Lagunitas; immediate Left and park near Ross Commons.
Ride:
0.0 Leftt on Lagunitas Road to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.1 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads away from the lake.
2.1 Right onto Shaver Grade at four-way intersection.
3.1 Hard Left at Five Corners.
3.8 Right on Sky Oaks,
3.9 Left on Bullfrog Rd (gravel road).
4.3 Left into parking lot, head up trail bearing right, and ride across the Bon Tempe Lake dam between Bon Tempe Lake and Alpine Lake.
4.6 Left onto Rocky Ridge and prepare yourself for a tough climb for the next .6 miles.
6.5 Left onto Rocky Spring – Lagunitas (and mercifully it’s all downhill to Lake Lagunitas from here).
7.4 Right on Lagunitas continuing around Lake Lagunitas crossing 3 wooden footbridges.
8.3 Right on Lakeview climbing up towards Eldridge Grade.
9.0 Left on Eldridge Grade, and enjoy the great descent down Eldridge.
9.8 Left down a steep section and continue on Eldridge.
10.3 At a 3-way intersection, bear right continuing down Eldridge.
11.1 Right at the 4-way intersection with Shaver continuing around Phoenix Lake back to the Natalie Coffin Greene trailhead.
12.1 Head down Lagunitas Rd towards Ross.
13.1 Arrive Ross Common.
(If the Rocky Ridge climb doesn't dish out enough climbing for you, try the Sea Otter Classic Training ride which takes you up Rocky Ridge and to the top of Mt. Tam!)
Mt Tam East Peak Summit and Fish Gulch Loop
Mt Tam East Peak Summit via Eldridge (Lagunitas/Fish Gulch Loop) Mountain Bike Trail – Ross, CA
(An Epic mountain bike trip up Eldridge to the top of Mt. Tam, where you’ll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful views in the Bay Area. Descend down Eldridge, around Lake Lagunitas, and down Fish Gulch back to Natalie Coffin Greene Park)
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake (west); left on Lagunitas Road; immediate left and park in downtown Ross.
Ride:
0.0 Left on Lagunitas Road to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.1 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads away from the lake.
2.1 Left on Eldridge at a four-way intersection with Shaver Grade (hard right) and Fish Gulch (straight).
2.9 (450’) Left and continue up Eldridge. You’ll hit a couple of trying 30-50' climbs that will test your lung capacity and balance, but otherwise, it's a smooth fireroad with great views.
4.2 (980’) Left at intersection with Lakeview (another trail). (NOTE: If you’ve had enough climbing, then go right onto Lakeview and follow the directions below under Eldridge/Lagunitas Loop(in reverse), BUT FIRST bear left and check out the incredible view another 100 yards up Eldridge.) This stretch of Eldridge offers magnificent views San Pedro Mountain, (San Quentin – if you dig that), Richmond Bridge, the Bay and beyond.
5.3 (1450’)Right at intersection with Indian Fire Road and continue another 2.6 miles up Eldridge. Take in the views of the city and around 1800’ at a sharp switchback, take the trail to right out a few hundred feet and check out the views from Inspiration Point.
7.7 Cross East Ridgecrest Blvd (the paved road that takes you to the top of Mt. Tam.) and continue up to East Peak.
7.9 Arrive at East Peak (2340’). Once you’ve taken in the magnificent views of San Francisco, the Pacific Ocean, and Angel Island, head back down the paved trail or Ridgecrest Blvd.
8.1 Right/Straight back down Eldridge Grade.
10.5 Stay on Eldridge past Indian Fire Road, and
11.6 Straight through the intersection with Lakeview (Eldridge goes Right, so you’ll now be on Lakeview). After a few tight turns, this launches your bike into a fast slight downhill and heads into some redwoods where you’ll take a Left.
12.2 Left on Lagunitas and bearing right at any intersections, taking you around beautiful Lake Lagunitas, and crossing three wooden footbridges.
13.2 Right at a small sign that reads “walk your bike the next 150 feet”. The trail continues across Lagunitas Dam and then takes a left into a parking lot.
13.5 Ride out Sky Oaks Road for a few hundred yards and bear Right.
13.7 Right down a paved trail/road.
13.9 Bear Left on the Fish Gulch Trail and prepare yourself for a very steep and fast descent back to the four-way intersection with Shaver and Eldridge. (check your bike brakes before heading down)
14.5 Straight through intersection and back around Phoenix Lake to trailhead.
15.5 Ride down Lagunitas Road to Ross.
16.6 Arrive Ross Common
(An Epic mountain bike trip up Eldridge to the top of Mt. Tam, where you’ll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful views in the Bay Area. Descend down Eldridge, around Lake Lagunitas, and down Fish Gulch back to Natalie Coffin Greene Park)
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake (west); left on Lagunitas Road; immediate left and park in downtown Ross.
Ride:
0.0 Left on Lagunitas Road to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.1 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads away from the lake.
2.1 Left on Eldridge at a four-way intersection with Shaver Grade (hard right) and Fish Gulch (straight).
2.9 (450’) Left and continue up Eldridge. You’ll hit a couple of trying 30-50' climbs that will test your lung capacity and balance, but otherwise, it's a smooth fireroad with great views.
4.2 (980’) Left at intersection with Lakeview (another trail). (NOTE: If you’ve had enough climbing, then go right onto Lakeview and follow the directions below under Eldridge/Lagunitas Loop(in reverse), BUT FIRST bear left and check out the incredible view another 100 yards up Eldridge.) This stretch of Eldridge offers magnificent views San Pedro Mountain, (San Quentin – if you dig that), Richmond Bridge, the Bay and beyond.
5.3 (1450’)Right at intersection with Indian Fire Road and continue another 2.6 miles up Eldridge. Take in the views of the city and around 1800’ at a sharp switchback, take the trail to right out a few hundred feet and check out the views from Inspiration Point.
7.7 Cross East Ridgecrest Blvd (the paved road that takes you to the top of Mt. Tam.) and continue up to East Peak.
7.9 Arrive at East Peak (2340’). Once you’ve taken in the magnificent views of San Francisco, the Pacific Ocean, and Angel Island, head back down the paved trail or Ridgecrest Blvd.
8.1 Right/Straight back down Eldridge Grade.
10.5 Stay on Eldridge past Indian Fire Road, and
11.6 Straight through the intersection with Lakeview (Eldridge goes Right, so you’ll now be on Lakeview). After a few tight turns, this launches your bike into a fast slight downhill and heads into some redwoods where you’ll take a Left.
12.2 Left on Lagunitas and bearing right at any intersections, taking you around beautiful Lake Lagunitas, and crossing three wooden footbridges.
13.2 Right at a small sign that reads “walk your bike the next 150 feet”. The trail continues across Lagunitas Dam and then takes a left into a parking lot.
13.5 Ride out Sky Oaks Road for a few hundred yards and bear Right.
13.7 Right down a paved trail/road.
13.9 Bear Left on the Fish Gulch Trail and prepare yourself for a very steep and fast descent back to the four-way intersection with Shaver and Eldridge. (check your bike brakes before heading down)
14.5 Straight through intersection and back around Phoenix Lake to trailhead.
15.5 Ride down Lagunitas Road to Ross.
16.6 Arrive Ross Common
Mt Tam Summit via Railroad Grade -- Great Scenic Ride
Mt. Tam Summit - Eldridge - Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Mountain Bike Loop – 19.2 miles; +3115’ - Ross, CA
(Beginning in Ross, climb to the East Peak of Mt. Tam via Hoo-Koo-E-Koo and Old Railroad Grade both of which afford incredible views of the Pacific and San Francisco, and then descend all the back to Ross via Eldridge Grade -- it's fast and fun. This is a long slow climb, but the views, descent, and trip past the West Point Inn make it all worthwhile. )
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake (west); left on Lagunitas Road; immediate left and park in downtown Ross.
0.0 Left on Lagunitas Road to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.07 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads away from the lake.
2.03 Left on Eldridge at a four-way intersection with Shaver (hard right) and Fish Gulch (straight).
2.77 (450’) Left and continue up Eldridge. You’ll hit a couple of trying 30-50' climbs that will test your lung capacity and balance, but otherwise, it's a smooth fireroad with great views.
4.14 (980’) Left at intersection with Lakeview (another trail). (NOTE: If you’ve had enough climbing, then go right onto Lakeview and follow the directions from either the Eldridge/Lagunitas Loop or Eldridge/Shaver Grade Loop.)
5.22 (1450’) Bear left onto Indian Fire Road and enjoy some quick switchbacks (CAUTION AROUND SOME OF THE CORNERS). Stay Right on Eldridge when you hit Indian Fire Road and continue another 2.6 miles up Eldridge . The last mile of this ride may seem like hell in places if you’re not used to riding trails strewn with “death cookies” – fist-size rocks that pull your bike in every direction.
5.79 Hard Right onto Blithedale Ridge.
5.85 Immediate Right onto Hoo-Koo-E-Koo. Enjoy a great descent for several hundreds yards dropping below 1000' elevation and then beginning the climbing through some wooded sections, past small waterfalls, and take in the views along the way.
7.66 Right onto Old Railroad Grade and stay on this until you reach the West Point Inn. Continue clockwise around the Inn staying on Old Railroad Grade until you reach East Ridgecrest Blvd.
10.98 Right on East Ridgecrest Blvd (a paved road), and take an immediate right onto a paved trail.
11.0 Right onto paved section of I believe Eldridge which takes you to the top of the East Peak of Mt. Tam.
11.29 Arrive at East Peak, enjoy views of San Francisco, the Pacific Ocean, and Angel Island, head down Ridgecrest Blvd and look for a trail on the Right.
11.56 Right on Eldridge Grade, and prepare yourself for some steep technical and at times fast descents over some loose rocks, also known as "death cookies."
14.07 Continue Straight onto Eldridge at the intersection with Indian Fire Road.
15.17 (980') Right onto Eldridge Grade.
16.45 Right onto Eldridge Grade.
17.21 Right at the four-way intersection towards Phoenix Lake.
18.17 Arrive at Natalie Coffin Greene Parking area
19.22 Arrive at Ross Commons.
(Beginning in Ross, climb to the East Peak of Mt. Tam via Hoo-Koo-E-Koo and Old Railroad Grade both of which afford incredible views of the Pacific and San Francisco, and then descend all the back to Ross via Eldridge Grade -- it's fast and fun. This is a long slow climb, but the views, descent, and trip past the West Point Inn make it all worthwhile. )
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake (west); left on Lagunitas Road; immediate left and park in downtown Ross.
0.0 Left on Lagunitas Road to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.07 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads away from the lake.
2.03 Left on Eldridge at a four-way intersection with Shaver (hard right) and Fish Gulch (straight).
2.77 (450’) Left and continue up Eldridge. You’ll hit a couple of trying 30-50' climbs that will test your lung capacity and balance, but otherwise, it's a smooth fireroad with great views.
4.14 (980’) Left at intersection with Lakeview (another trail). (NOTE: If you’ve had enough climbing, then go right onto Lakeview and follow the directions from either the Eldridge/Lagunitas Loop or Eldridge/Shaver Grade Loop.)
5.22 (1450’) Bear left onto Indian Fire Road and enjoy some quick switchbacks (CAUTION AROUND SOME OF THE CORNERS). Stay Right on Eldridge when you hit Indian Fire Road and continue another 2.6 miles up Eldridge . The last mile of this ride may seem like hell in places if you’re not used to riding trails strewn with “death cookies” – fist-size rocks that pull your bike in every direction.
5.79 Hard Right onto Blithedale Ridge.
5.85 Immediate Right onto Hoo-Koo-E-Koo. Enjoy a great descent for several hundreds yards dropping below 1000' elevation and then beginning the climbing through some wooded sections, past small waterfalls, and take in the views along the way.
7.66 Right onto Old Railroad Grade and stay on this until you reach the West Point Inn. Continue clockwise around the Inn staying on Old Railroad Grade until you reach East Ridgecrest Blvd.
10.98 Right on East Ridgecrest Blvd (a paved road), and take an immediate right onto a paved trail.
11.0 Right onto paved section of I believe Eldridge which takes you to the top of the East Peak of Mt. Tam.
11.29 Arrive at East Peak, enjoy views of San Francisco, the Pacific Ocean, and Angel Island, head down Ridgecrest Blvd and look for a trail on the Right.
11.56 Right on Eldridge Grade, and prepare yourself for some steep technical and at times fast descents over some loose rocks, also known as "death cookies."
14.07 Continue Straight onto Eldridge at the intersection with Indian Fire Road.
15.17 (980') Right onto Eldridge Grade.
16.45 Right onto Eldridge Grade.
17.21 Right at the four-way intersection towards Phoenix Lake.
18.17 Arrive at Natalie Coffin Greene Parking area
19.22 Arrive at Ross Commons.
Mt. Tam - Shaver Grade - Rocky Ridge Loop
Mt. Tam – Shaver Grade-Rocky Ridge Loop – 12.63 miles; 2000’ Elevation Gain - Ross, CA
(This vigorous loop takes you past Lakes Phoenix, Lagunitas, and Bon Tempe, and has a fun descent down Rock Springs. Steep climbing on Rock Springs, fun descents, and beautiful scenery.)
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake (west); left on Lagunitas Road; immediate left and park in downtown Ross.
Ride:
0.0 Left on Lagunitas Road to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.1 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads away from the lake.
2.1 Right onto Shaver Grade at four-way intersection.
3.1 Hard Left at Five Corners.
3.8 Left on Sky Oaks Rd (paved), which takes you downhill past Bon Tempe to the Lake Lagunitas trailhead – look for the trailhead at the last parking lot you reach.
5.0 Head up the trail near the sign marked “Lagunitas Dam”, and Right across Lake Lagunitas Dam and stay left across a narrow trail.
5.22 Left on Lagunitas Rd (a trail) and continue until the first intersection and go right.
5.32 Right on Rock Springs and begin a tough 13+% grade climb.
6.24 Right on Rocky Ridge and enjoy some fast double track and fire roads with magnificent views (on or two minor climbs, one up a 100 ft stretch of rock garden), and then some superfast descents (use caution).
8.02 Bear right towards Bon Tempe dam, and follow the trail across the damn and down to the parking area.
8.39 Right on Bullfrog Rd (a gravel road).
8.79 Right onto Sky Oaks (a paved road) and look for the first gate on the left.
8.85 Left through gate onto Shaver Grade.
9.48 Right at five corners continuing down Shaver Grade.
10.53 Left at four corners back towards Phoenix Lake and NCG Park.
11.53 Arrive at Natalie Coffin Greene Park. Head down Lagunitas Rd towards Ross.
12.63 Arrive Ross Common.
RIDE WITH MAPS AND COMMON SENSE
(This vigorous loop takes you past Lakes Phoenix, Lagunitas, and Bon Tempe, and has a fun descent down Rock Springs. Steep climbing on Rock Springs, fun descents, and beautiful scenery.)
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake (west); left on Lagunitas Road; immediate left and park in downtown Ross.
Ride:
0.0 Left on Lagunitas Road to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.1 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads away from the lake.
2.1 Right onto Shaver Grade at four-way intersection.
3.1 Hard Left at Five Corners.
3.8 Left on Sky Oaks Rd (paved), which takes you downhill past Bon Tempe to the Lake Lagunitas trailhead – look for the trailhead at the last parking lot you reach.
5.0 Head up the trail near the sign marked “Lagunitas Dam”, and Right across Lake Lagunitas Dam and stay left across a narrow trail.
5.22 Left on Lagunitas Rd (a trail) and continue until the first intersection and go right.
5.32 Right on Rock Springs and begin a tough 13+% grade climb.
6.24 Right on Rocky Ridge and enjoy some fast double track and fire roads with magnificent views (on or two minor climbs, one up a 100 ft stretch of rock garden), and then some superfast descents (use caution).
8.02 Bear right towards Bon Tempe dam, and follow the trail across the damn and down to the parking area.
8.39 Right on Bullfrog Rd (a gravel road).
8.79 Right onto Sky Oaks (a paved road) and look for the first gate on the left.
8.85 Left through gate onto Shaver Grade.
9.48 Right at five corners continuing down Shaver Grade.
10.53 Left at four corners back towards Phoenix Lake and NCG Park.
11.53 Arrive at Natalie Coffin Greene Park. Head down Lagunitas Rd towards Ross.
12.63 Arrive Ross Common.
RIDE WITH MAPS AND COMMON SENSE
Sea Otter Classic Training Ride -- Mt. Tam
Mt. Tam Summit – Lance’s Sea Otter Classic Training Ride – 20.9 miles; 3200’ elevation gain - Ross, CA
(Not exactly bike racing at Sea Otter Classic, but this mountain bike training ride maps the typical distance of 20+ miles, and gives you 3200’ of elevation gain. While the elevation is less Sea Otter than in some years, the long stretches up Rocky Ridge and Eldridge Grade will condition you for biking any trails the Sea Otter Classic dishes out.)
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake (west); left on Lagunitas Road; Left and park on Ross Common.
Ride:
0.0 Left on Lagunitas Road from Ross Common to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.1 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads away from the lake.
2.1 Right onto Shaver Grade at four-way intersection.
3.1 (530’) Hard Left at Five Corners.
3.8 (780’) Right on Sky Oaks, and take immediate
3.9 Left on Bullfrog Rd (gravel road).
4.2 (650’) Left into parking lot and up trailhead (bearing right towards Bon Tempe Dam).
4.4 Continue right and ride across the dam enjoying views of Bon Tempe Lake and Lake Alpine.
4.6 Left onto Rocky Ridge and prepare yourself for a grueling climb over the next .5 mile.
5.2 You'll hit a slight plateau where you can catch your breath (there's more climbing but the worst is over)
6.5 (1420’) Left onto Rocky Spring (and mercifully it’s all downhill to Lake Lagunitas from here).
7.4 Right on Lagunitas continuing around Lake Lagunitas and crossing over 3 footbridges.
8.3 Right on Lakeview climbing up towards Eldridge Grade.
9.0 (980’) Straight through intersection with Eldridge and you’re actually now on Eldridge Grade.
10.1 (1450’) Right at intersection with Indian Fire Road and continue another 2.5 miles up Eldridge Grade.
12.6 Cross East Ridgecrest Blvd (the paved road that takes you to the top of Mt. Tam.) and continue up to the top of the East Peak of Mt Tam on a paved trail running parallel to Ridgecrest.
12.9 Arrive at East Peak (2340’). Once you’ve taken in the magnificent views of San Francisco, the Pacific Ocean, and Angel Island head back down Ridgecrest Blvd or the paved trail.
13.2 Right/Straight back down Eldridge.
15.7 Straight past the intersection with Indian Fire Road, and
16.8 Right at the intersection with Lakeview, enjoy the great descent down Eldridge Grade.
17.6 Stay left down a steep section and continue on Eldridge.
18.1 At a 3-way intersection, go Right continuing down Eldridge.
18.9 Right at the 4-way with Shaver continuing around Phoenix Lake back to the Natalie Coffin Greene trailhead.
19.9 Arrive at Natalie Coffin Greene Park (time yourself for your training ride). Head down Lagunitas Rd towards Ross.
20.9 Arrive Ross Common.
(Not exactly bike racing at Sea Otter Classic, but this mountain bike training ride maps the typical distance of 20+ miles, and gives you 3200’ of elevation gain. While the elevation is less Sea Otter than in some years, the long stretches up Rocky Ridge and Eldridge Grade will condition you for biking any trails the Sea Otter Classic dishes out.)
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake (west); left on Lagunitas Road; Left and park on Ross Common.
Ride:
0.0 Left on Lagunitas Road from Ross Common to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.1 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads away from the lake.
2.1 Right onto Shaver Grade at four-way intersection.
3.1 (530’) Hard Left at Five Corners.
3.8 (780’) Right on Sky Oaks, and take immediate
3.9 Left on Bullfrog Rd (gravel road).
4.2 (650’) Left into parking lot and up trailhead (bearing right towards Bon Tempe Dam).
4.4 Continue right and ride across the dam enjoying views of Bon Tempe Lake and Lake Alpine.
4.6 Left onto Rocky Ridge and prepare yourself for a grueling climb over the next .5 mile.
5.2 You'll hit a slight plateau where you can catch your breath (there's more climbing but the worst is over)
6.5 (1420’) Left onto Rocky Spring (and mercifully it’s all downhill to Lake Lagunitas from here).
7.4 Right on Lagunitas continuing around Lake Lagunitas and crossing over 3 footbridges.
8.3 Right on Lakeview climbing up towards Eldridge Grade.
9.0 (980’) Straight through intersection with Eldridge and you’re actually now on Eldridge Grade.
10.1 (1450’) Right at intersection with Indian Fire Road and continue another 2.5 miles up Eldridge Grade.
12.6 Cross East Ridgecrest Blvd (the paved road that takes you to the top of Mt. Tam.) and continue up to the top of the East Peak of Mt Tam on a paved trail running parallel to Ridgecrest.
12.9 Arrive at East Peak (2340’). Once you’ve taken in the magnificent views of San Francisco, the Pacific Ocean, and Angel Island head back down Ridgecrest Blvd or the paved trail.
13.2 Right/Straight back down Eldridge.
15.7 Straight past the intersection with Indian Fire Road, and
16.8 Right at the intersection with Lakeview, enjoy the great descent down Eldridge Grade.
17.6 Stay left down a steep section and continue on Eldridge.
18.1 At a 3-way intersection, go Right continuing down Eldridge.
18.9 Right at the 4-way with Shaver continuing around Phoenix Lake back to the Natalie Coffin Greene trailhead.
19.9 Arrive at Natalie Coffin Greene Park (time yourself for your training ride). Head down Lagunitas Rd towards Ross.
20.9 Arrive Ross Common.
Mt Tam - Eldridge Grade - Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Loop
Mt. Tam Summit - Eldridge - Hoo-Koo-E-Koo Mountain Bike Loop – 19.1 miles; +3198’ - Ross, CA
(Climb to the East Peak of Mt. Tam via Eldridge Grade and loop back around on Old Railroad Grade and Hoo-Koo-E-Koo, where you'll see incredible views of the Pacific and San Francisco. There's lots of tough climbing but the views, descent, and trip past the West Point Inn make it all worthwhile. )
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake (west); left on Lagunitas Road; immediate left and park in downtown Ross.
0.0 Left on Lagunitas Road to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.07 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads away from the lake.
2.02 Left on Eldridge at a four-way intersection with Shaver (hard right) and Fish Gulch (straight).
2.76 (450’) Left and continue up Eldridge. You’ll hit a couple of trying 30-50' climbs that will test your lung capacity and balance, but otherwise, it's a smooth fireroad with great views.
4.06 (980’) Left at intersection with Lakeview (another trail). (NOTE: If you’ve had enough climbing, then go right onto Lakeview and follow the directions from either the Eldridge/Lagunitas Loop or Eldridge/Shaver Grade Loop.)
5.11 (1450’) Stay Right on Eldridge when you hit Indian Fire Road and continue another 2.6 miles up Eldridge . The last mile of this ride may seem like hell in places if you’re not used to riding trails strewn with “death cookies” – fist-size rocks that pull your bike in every direction.
7.56 Cross East Ridgecrest Blvd (the paved road) and continue up to the top of East Peak.
7.86 Arrive at East Peak, enjoy views of San Francisco, the Pacific Ocean, and Angel Island, head down Ridgecrest Blvd just past Eldridge.
8.16 LEFT through Gate onto Old Railroad Grade for over three miles of downhill bliss. Around 1.5 miles in you'll pass West Point Inn. Follow the trail counterclockwise around the Inn and keep going downhill.
11.49 LEFT onto Hoo-Koo-E-Koo trail, and continue to enjoy phenomenal views of San Francisco and the Pacific Ocean interspersed with stints through dense groves will waterfalls. You'll descend below 1000' in elevation and then climb back up to above 1200'.
13.28 LEFT up a very steep but short section of Blithedale Ridge.
13.34 LEFT up Indian Fire Road, which is also very steep for the first few hundred yards.
13.91 Straight/Right onto Eldridge Grade (where you were at the 5.11 mile mark) and smile because it's downhill all the way.
15.0 RIGHT continuing on Eldridge trail.
16.3 RIGHT continuing down Eldridge.
17.05 RIGHT at four-way intersection continuing back towards Lake Phoenix.
18.00 ARRIVE Natalie Coffin Green Park and head down Lake Lagunitas Road.
19.08 ARRIVE Ross Commons, Ross, CA.
(Climb to the East Peak of Mt. Tam via Eldridge Grade and loop back around on Old Railroad Grade and Hoo-Koo-E-Koo, where you'll see incredible views of the Pacific and San Francisco. There's lots of tough climbing but the views, descent, and trip past the West Point Inn make it all worthwhile. )
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake (west); left on Lagunitas Road; immediate left and park in downtown Ross.
0.0 Left on Lagunitas Road to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.07 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads away from the lake.
2.02 Left on Eldridge at a four-way intersection with Shaver (hard right) and Fish Gulch (straight).
2.76 (450’) Left and continue up Eldridge. You’ll hit a couple of trying 30-50' climbs that will test your lung capacity and balance, but otherwise, it's a smooth fireroad with great views.
4.06 (980’) Left at intersection with Lakeview (another trail). (NOTE: If you’ve had enough climbing, then go right onto Lakeview and follow the directions from either the Eldridge/Lagunitas Loop or Eldridge/Shaver Grade Loop.)
5.11 (1450’) Stay Right on Eldridge when you hit Indian Fire Road and continue another 2.6 miles up Eldridge . The last mile of this ride may seem like hell in places if you’re not used to riding trails strewn with “death cookies” – fist-size rocks that pull your bike in every direction.
7.56 Cross East Ridgecrest Blvd (the paved road) and continue up to the top of East Peak.
7.86 Arrive at East Peak, enjoy views of San Francisco, the Pacific Ocean, and Angel Island, head down Ridgecrest Blvd just past Eldridge.
8.16 LEFT through Gate onto Old Railroad Grade for over three miles of downhill bliss. Around 1.5 miles in you'll pass West Point Inn. Follow the trail counterclockwise around the Inn and keep going downhill.
11.49 LEFT onto Hoo-Koo-E-Koo trail, and continue to enjoy phenomenal views of San Francisco and the Pacific Ocean interspersed with stints through dense groves will waterfalls. You'll descend below 1000' in elevation and then climb back up to above 1200'.
13.28 LEFT up a very steep but short section of Blithedale Ridge.
13.34 LEFT up Indian Fire Road, which is also very steep for the first few hundred yards.
13.91 Straight/Right onto Eldridge Grade (where you were at the 5.11 mile mark) and smile because it's downhill all the way.
15.0 RIGHT continuing on Eldridge trail.
16.3 RIGHT continuing down Eldridge.
17.05 RIGHT at four-way intersection continuing back towards Lake Phoenix.
18.00 ARRIVE Natalie Coffin Green Park and head down Lake Lagunitas Road.
19.08 ARRIVE Ross Commons, Ross, CA.
Epic Mt. Tam Twin Peaks Loop - East and West Peaks
Mt. Tam Epic Twin Peaks Mountain Bike Loop – 19.3 miles; 3401’ elevation gain - Ross, CA
(An Epic mountain bike ride to the top of both the East Peak and West Peak of Mt. Tam, where you’ll travel some of the best trails in Marin, take in the most beautiful views of San Francisco and the Pacific Ocean, and conquer some exhilirating downhill trails. Another great training ride for the Sea Otter Classic?)
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake (west); left on Lagunitas Road; immediate left and park in downtown Ross.
0.0 Left on Lagunitas Road to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.1 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads away from the lake.
2.1 Left on Eldridge at a four-way intersection with Shaver (hard right) and Fish Gulch (straight).
2.9 (450’) Left and continue up Eldridge. You’ll hit a couple of trying 30-50' climbs that will test your lung capacity and balance, but otherwise, it's a smooth fireroad with great views.
4.2 (980’) Left at intersection with Lakeview (another trail). (NOTE: If you’ve had enough climbing, then go right onto Lakeview and follow the directions from mile 11.6 on either the Eldridge/Lagunitas Loop or Eldridge/Shaver Grade Loop.)
5.3 (1450’) Stay Right on Eldridge when you hit Indian Fire Road and continue another 2.6 miles up Eldridge . The last mile of this ride may seem like hell in places if you’re not used to riding trails strewn with “death cookies” – fist-size rocks that pull your bike in every direction.
7.7 Cross East Ridgecrest Blvd (the paved road) and continue up to the top of East Peak.
8.0 Arrive at East Peak, enjoy views of San Francisco, the Pacific Ocean, and Angel Island, head down Ridgecrest Blvd past Eldridge and climbing to the top of and past West Peak (2500' on road).
10.6 RIGHT on Rock Springs trail which goes uphill rather steeply off of the paved road.
11.4 Continue on Rock Springs trail going straight and continue straight through a second intersection.
12.9 LEFT (hard left) on Rocky Ridge and enjoy a fun ride with some rollers in the beginning and these some steep downhill, riding it to Bon Tempe Lake, across the Bon Tempe Dam and following it left down into a parking lot.
15.1 RIGHT onto a gravel road out of the parking lot.
15.7 RIGHT onto a paved road for a hundred yards.
15.76 LEFT through the trail gate onto Shaver Grade Trail.
16.4 RIGHT (hard) at Five Corners continuing downhill on Shaver trail (and bear left after a few hundred yards).
17.4 LEFT at the intersection with Eldridge taking you back around Phoenix and to the parking lot.
18.4 Head down Lagunitas Road back to Ross Common.
19.3-4. END
(An Epic mountain bike ride to the top of both the East Peak and West Peak of Mt. Tam, where you’ll travel some of the best trails in Marin, take in the most beautiful views of San Francisco and the Pacific Ocean, and conquer some exhilirating downhill trails. Another great training ride for the Sea Otter Classic?)
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake (west); left on Lagunitas Road; immediate left and park in downtown Ross.
0.0 Left on Lagunitas Road to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.1 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads away from the lake.
2.1 Left on Eldridge at a four-way intersection with Shaver (hard right) and Fish Gulch (straight).
2.9 (450’) Left and continue up Eldridge. You’ll hit a couple of trying 30-50' climbs that will test your lung capacity and balance, but otherwise, it's a smooth fireroad with great views.
4.2 (980’) Left at intersection with Lakeview (another trail). (NOTE: If you’ve had enough climbing, then go right onto Lakeview and follow the directions from mile 11.6 on either the Eldridge/Lagunitas Loop or Eldridge/Shaver Grade Loop.)
5.3 (1450’) Stay Right on Eldridge when you hit Indian Fire Road and continue another 2.6 miles up Eldridge . The last mile of this ride may seem like hell in places if you’re not used to riding trails strewn with “death cookies” – fist-size rocks that pull your bike in every direction.
7.7 Cross East Ridgecrest Blvd (the paved road) and continue up to the top of East Peak.
8.0 Arrive at East Peak, enjoy views of San Francisco, the Pacific Ocean, and Angel Island, head down Ridgecrest Blvd past Eldridge and climbing to the top of and past West Peak (2500' on road).
10.6 RIGHT on Rock Springs trail which goes uphill rather steeply off of the paved road.
11.4 Continue on Rock Springs trail going straight and continue straight through a second intersection.
12.9 LEFT (hard left) on Rocky Ridge and enjoy a fun ride with some rollers in the beginning and these some steep downhill, riding it to Bon Tempe Lake, across the Bon Tempe Dam and following it left down into a parking lot.
15.1 RIGHT onto a gravel road out of the parking lot.
15.7 RIGHT onto a paved road for a hundred yards.
15.76 LEFT through the trail gate onto Shaver Grade Trail.
16.4 RIGHT (hard) at Five Corners continuing downhill on Shaver trail (and bear left after a few hundred yards).
17.4 LEFT at the intersection with Eldridge taking you back around Phoenix and to the parking lot.
18.4 Head down Lagunitas Road back to Ross Common.
19.3-4. END
Mt Tamalpais Summit-Shaver Grade Loop
Mt Tam Bike Trail - Mt Tam Summit Shaver Loop – 18.5 miles; 2530’ elevation gain – Ross, CA
(An Epic mountain bike ride from Lake Phoenix up Eldridge to the top of the East Peak of Mt. Tam, where you’ll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful views in the Bay Area. Descend down Eldridge trail, around Lake Lagunitas, past Bon Tempe Lake, and down Shaver Grade.)
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake (west); left on Lagunitas Rd; immediate left; park in downtown Ross.
0.0 Left on Lagunitas Road to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.1 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads away from the lake.
2.1 Left on Eldridge at a four-way intersection with Shaver (hard right) and Fish Gulch (straight).
2.9 (450’) Go Left and continue up Eldridge. You’ll hit a couple of trying 30-50' climbs that will test your lung capacity and balance, but otherwise, it's a smooth fireroad with great views.
4.2 (980’) Left at 3-way with Lakeview (another trail). (NOTE: If you’ve had enough climbing, then bear right onto Lakeview and follow the directions on a shorter Eldridge/Lagunitas Loop (in reverse), BUT FIRST bear left and check out the incredible view another 100 yards up Eldridge.) This stretch of Eldridge offers magnificent views San Pedro Mountain, (San Quentin – if you dig that), Richmond Bridge, the Bay and beyond.
5.3 (1450’) Right at intersection with Indian Fire Road and continue another 2.6 miles up Eldridge. Take in the views of the city and around 1800’ at a sharp switchback, take the trail to right out a few hundred feet and check out the views from Inspiration Point.
7.7 Cross East Ridgecrest Blvd (the paved road that takes you to the top of Mt. Tam.) and continue on a paved trail to East Peak.
7.9 Arrive at East Peak (2340’). Once you’ve taken in the magnificent views of San Francisco, the Pacific Ocean, and Angel Island head back down Ridgecrest Blvd or the paved trail.
8.1 Right/Straight back down Eldridge.
10.5 Straight past the intersection with Indian Fire Road, and
11.6 Straight through the intersection with Lakeview (Eldridge goes Right, so you’ll now be on Lakeview). After a few tight turns, this launches into a fast slight downhill and heads into some redwoods where you’ll take a Left.
12.2 Left on Lagunitas, bearing right at intersections, around Lake Lagunitas, and crossing three wooden footbridges.
13.2 Turn Right at a small sign that reads “walk your bike the next 150 feet”. The trail continues across Lagunitas Dam and then takes a left into a parking lot.
13.5 Ride out Sky Oaks Road for just over a mile (you’ll climb briefly about half-way into this section and as you begin to descend, you’ll see trail on the right).
14.7 Right onto Shaver (770’), which has some rolling hills..
15.4 Right at Five Corners (530’) go Left at the fork and continue on Shaver back to the four-way intersection with Eldridge Grade and Fish Gulch.
16.4 Left back around Phoenix Lake to the Natalie Coffin Greene Park entrance.
17.4 Ride down Lagunitas Rd to Ross.
18.5 Arrive Ross Common.
(An Epic mountain bike ride from Lake Phoenix up Eldridge to the top of the East Peak of Mt. Tam, where you’ll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful views in the Bay Area. Descend down Eldridge trail, around Lake Lagunitas, past Bon Tempe Lake, and down Shaver Grade.)
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake (west); left on Lagunitas Rd; immediate left; park in downtown Ross.
0.0 Left on Lagunitas Road to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.1 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads away from the lake.
2.1 Left on Eldridge at a four-way intersection with Shaver (hard right) and Fish Gulch (straight).
2.9 (450’) Go Left and continue up Eldridge. You’ll hit a couple of trying 30-50' climbs that will test your lung capacity and balance, but otherwise, it's a smooth fireroad with great views.
4.2 (980’) Left at 3-way with Lakeview (another trail). (NOTE: If you’ve had enough climbing, then bear right onto Lakeview and follow the directions on a shorter Eldridge/Lagunitas Loop (in reverse), BUT FIRST bear left and check out the incredible view another 100 yards up Eldridge.) This stretch of Eldridge offers magnificent views San Pedro Mountain, (San Quentin – if you dig that), Richmond Bridge, the Bay and beyond.
5.3 (1450’) Right at intersection with Indian Fire Road and continue another 2.6 miles up Eldridge. Take in the views of the city and around 1800’ at a sharp switchback, take the trail to right out a few hundred feet and check out the views from Inspiration Point.
7.7 Cross East Ridgecrest Blvd (the paved road that takes you to the top of Mt. Tam.) and continue on a paved trail to East Peak.
7.9 Arrive at East Peak (2340’). Once you’ve taken in the magnificent views of San Francisco, the Pacific Ocean, and Angel Island head back down Ridgecrest Blvd or the paved trail.
8.1 Right/Straight back down Eldridge.
10.5 Straight past the intersection with Indian Fire Road, and
11.6 Straight through the intersection with Lakeview (Eldridge goes Right, so you’ll now be on Lakeview). After a few tight turns, this launches into a fast slight downhill and heads into some redwoods where you’ll take a Left.
12.2 Left on Lagunitas, bearing right at intersections, around Lake Lagunitas, and crossing three wooden footbridges.
13.2 Turn Right at a small sign that reads “walk your bike the next 150 feet”. The trail continues across Lagunitas Dam and then takes a left into a parking lot.
13.5 Ride out Sky Oaks Road for just over a mile (you’ll climb briefly about half-way into this section and as you begin to descend, you’ll see trail on the right).
14.7 Right onto Shaver (770’), which has some rolling hills..
15.4 Right at Five Corners (530’) go Left at the fork and continue on Shaver back to the four-way intersection with Eldridge Grade and Fish Gulch.
16.4 Left back around Phoenix Lake to the Natalie Coffin Greene Park entrance.
17.4 Ride down Lagunitas Rd to Ross.
18.5 Arrive Ross Common.
Mt Tamalpais Mountain Bike Ride From Ross
Mt. Tam East Peak Summit via Eldridge – 15.8 miles; 2400’ elevation gain - Ross, CA
(An Epic mountain bike trip up and back on Eldridge Grade to the top of Mt. Tam, where you’ll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful views in the Bay Area and ride a great mountain bike trail. It’s a challenging long climb, but gradual most of the way and the views keep you going.)
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake (west); left on Lagunitas Road; immediate left and park in downtown Ross.
Ride:
0.0 Left on Lagunitas Road to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.1 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads away from the lake.
2.1 Left on Eldridge at a four-way intersection with Shaver (hard right) and Fish Gulch (straight).
2.9 (450’) Left and continue up Eldridge. You’ll hit a couple of trying 30-50' climbs that will test your lung capacity and balance, but otherwise, it's a smooth fireroad with great views.
4.2 (980’) Left at intersection with Lakeview (another trail). (NOTE: If you’ve had enough climbing, then go right onto Lakeview and follow the directions from mile 11.6 on either the Eldridge/Lagunitas Loop or Eldridge/Shaver Grade Loop, BUT FIRST go left and check out the incredible view another 100 yards up Eldridge.) This stretch of Eldridge offers magnificent views San Pedro Mountain, (San Quentin – if you dig that), Richmond Bridge, the Bay and beyond.
5.3 (1450’) Stay Right on Eldridge when you hit Indian Fire Road and continue another 2.6 miles up Eldridge . Take in the views of the city and around 1800’ at a sharp switchback, take the trail to right out a few hundred feet and check out the views from Inspiration Point. The last mile of this ride may seem like hell in places if you’re not used to riding trails strewn with “death cookies” – fist-size rocks that pull your bike in every direction.
7.7 Cross East Ridgecrest Blvd (the paved road that takes you to the top of Mt. Tam.) and continue up to the top of East Peak.
7.9 Arrive at East Peak. Once you’ve taken in the magnificent views of San Francisco, the Pacific Ocean, and Angel Island head back down Ridgecrest Blvd or the paved trail.
Return the same way you came (and be careful mountain biking down the top part of Eldridge), Rinse Repeat, Need I say more?
15.8 Arrive back at Ross Common.
(An Epic mountain bike trip up and back on Eldridge Grade to the top of Mt. Tam, where you’ll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful views in the Bay Area and ride a great mountain bike trail. It’s a challenging long climb, but gradual most of the way and the views keep you going.)
Directions: 101N; Sir Francis Drake (west); left on Lagunitas Road; immediate left and park in downtown Ross.
Ride:
0.0 Left on Lagunitas Road to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park.
1.1 Ride up gated trail around right side of Phoenix Lake, hugging it until the trail heads away from the lake.
2.1 Left on Eldridge at a four-way intersection with Shaver (hard right) and Fish Gulch (straight).
2.9 (450’) Left and continue up Eldridge. You’ll hit a couple of trying 30-50' climbs that will test your lung capacity and balance, but otherwise, it's a smooth fireroad with great views.
4.2 (980’) Left at intersection with Lakeview (another trail). (NOTE: If you’ve had enough climbing, then go right onto Lakeview and follow the directions from mile 11.6 on either the Eldridge/Lagunitas Loop or Eldridge/Shaver Grade Loop, BUT FIRST go left and check out the incredible view another 100 yards up Eldridge.) This stretch of Eldridge offers magnificent views San Pedro Mountain, (San Quentin – if you dig that), Richmond Bridge, the Bay and beyond.
5.3 (1450’) Stay Right on Eldridge when you hit Indian Fire Road and continue another 2.6 miles up Eldridge . Take in the views of the city and around 1800’ at a sharp switchback, take the trail to right out a few hundred feet and check out the views from Inspiration Point. The last mile of this ride may seem like hell in places if you’re not used to riding trails strewn with “death cookies” – fist-size rocks that pull your bike in every direction.
7.7 Cross East Ridgecrest Blvd (the paved road that takes you to the top of Mt. Tam.) and continue up to the top of East Peak.
7.9 Arrive at East Peak. Once you’ve taken in the magnificent views of San Francisco, the Pacific Ocean, and Angel Island head back down Ridgecrest Blvd or the paved trail.
Return the same way you came (and be careful mountain biking down the top part of Eldridge), Rinse Repeat, Need I say more?
15.8 Arrive back at Ross Common.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Monday, January 3, 2011
Muddy Mt Tam
Hello Sunshine and 2011! The sun finally arrived in Marin County and made for a beautiful day for mountain biking. The trailhead at Phoenix Lake (at Natalie Coffin Greene Park in Ross) re-opened a few months ago, and the regrading and torrential rains have made the trail back to Eldridge and Shaver Grades a veritable mud bath ... At least it's good for your skin (and even better, you need only run a mile or two out of Ross and you can return looking like you've finished an Epic ride).
Shaver as always is completely muddy and Eldridge while muddy in spots is draining well. If you haven't been out in awhile, this is the week. The mud certainly won't disappear but the views make all of the mud well worth it ... Plus it's great cross training for skiing and boarding, so get out there and ride!
Shaver as always is completely muddy and Eldridge while muddy in spots is draining well. If you haven't been out in awhile, this is the week. The mud certainly won't disappear but the views make all of the mud well worth it ... Plus it's great cross training for skiing and boarding, so get out there and ride!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
