Slide show with all pictures of Northern California Avenue of Giants ride
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Monday, August 3, 2009
Hwy 49/Murphy's/Jamestown/Valley Springs/River Road
Saturday, August 1, found me taking a lone wolf ride with my wife and buddy Scott. We set out on White Rock Rd (from Sunrise Blvd, Rancho Cordova) and proceeded to Scott's Road, hung a right.
If you have not experienced Scott's Road, this is always a fun roller coaster type ride, lots of hills, constant up and downs with little traffic. You can take these hills at a higher brisk pace to experience the up and down motions we used to loved as kids. My buddy mentioned getting a little equilibrium light headiness from the motions, but loved it none the less. Gotta try this road a few times as you become more familiar with it, your speed gets greater with increased confidence (not much traffic)resulting in a greater motion sensation. Roller coaster anyone?
From there we proceeded to Ione via CA 16 and Ione/Michigan Bar Road which took us onto Hwy 104. We eventually made it to Jackson and Hwy 49. From there, it was south bound through the towns of the Gold Rush days, e.g. Mokelumne Hill, Melones, Carson Hill, Jamestown, etc. Hwy 49 was a road I used to really enjoy when I first started riding, but, on this day found quite a bit of traffic which slowed the ride speed. It was still a great motorcycle ride, albeit, there was heavy smoke from a fire in the canyon yonder Murphys. We did pass Melones Lake which is always a fantastic view.
Murphys was our lunch destination via Murphys Grade road. Once we returned to Hwy 49 we proceeded to Jamestown via a nice winding road called Rawhide Road. Nothing awesomely spectacular, but, a nice break from the congested Hwy 49.
It was our intent to loop this ride to the River Road to Isleton and eventually to the Moon River Inn in Riverside. To get there we proceeded down Hwy 108 from Jamestown which we got slammed into crawl speed traffic. We crawled our way to finally hanging a right on Obyrnes Ferry Road which winds around and rims Tullock Lake. This turned out to be one of the highlights of the ride as the road was well paved, winding, and the lake views awesome.
From there we crossed Hwy 4 onto this little obscurred road called Rock Creek Road. The road started out pretty cool especially as we approached Salt Spring Valley Reservoir. Its one of those roads that make you think of the Old Wild West as the road winds through open land with an occassional house or ranch dotting the landscape. Not much out here. Once we got to the Salt Spring Valley Reservoir we wound up on some very rough road. Not pot holes but really rough with lots of road patches and tar snakes. The road itself, if better paved would have been a really fun twisty ride through hills, flat land, etc. My wife and Scott thought this would be an awesome road to ride if better paved.....and I agree. It was about 15 miles of rough road which seem to stretch longer and longer as we had to keep the speeds low (2nd and 3rd gear).
We eventually made it to Milton Road which took us into Valley Springs. From there, we hooked left onto Hwy 12. Hwy 12 was to take us to the River Road and Rio Vista. But, on this day, we decided that was for another day for various reasons, so we took the freeway home.
On a scale of 10, I would rate this ride a 5. The smoke, traffic and rough roads contributed to the lower rating.
If you have not experienced Scott's Road, this is always a fun roller coaster type ride, lots of hills, constant up and downs with little traffic. You can take these hills at a higher brisk pace to experience the up and down motions we used to loved as kids. My buddy mentioned getting a little equilibrium light headiness from the motions, but loved it none the less. Gotta try this road a few times as you become more familiar with it, your speed gets greater with increased confidence (not much traffic)resulting in a greater motion sensation. Roller coaster anyone?
From there we proceeded to Ione via CA 16 and Ione/Michigan Bar Road which took us onto Hwy 104. We eventually made it to Jackson and Hwy 49. From there, it was south bound through the towns of the Gold Rush days, e.g. Mokelumne Hill, Melones, Carson Hill, Jamestown, etc. Hwy 49 was a road I used to really enjoy when I first started riding, but, on this day found quite a bit of traffic which slowed the ride speed. It was still a great motorcycle ride, albeit, there was heavy smoke from a fire in the canyon yonder Murphys. We did pass Melones Lake which is always a fantastic view.
Murphys was our lunch destination via Murphys Grade road. Once we returned to Hwy 49 we proceeded to Jamestown via a nice winding road called Rawhide Road. Nothing awesomely spectacular, but, a nice break from the congested Hwy 49.
It was our intent to loop this ride to the River Road to Isleton and eventually to the Moon River Inn in Riverside. To get there we proceeded down Hwy 108 from Jamestown which we got slammed into crawl speed traffic. We crawled our way to finally hanging a right on Obyrnes Ferry Road which winds around and rims Tullock Lake. This turned out to be one of the highlights of the ride as the road was well paved, winding, and the lake views awesome.
From there we crossed Hwy 4 onto this little obscurred road called Rock Creek Road. The road started out pretty cool especially as we approached Salt Spring Valley Reservoir. Its one of those roads that make you think of the Old Wild West as the road winds through open land with an occassional house or ranch dotting the landscape. Not much out here. Once we got to the Salt Spring Valley Reservoir we wound up on some very rough road. Not pot holes but really rough with lots of road patches and tar snakes. The road itself, if better paved would have been a really fun twisty ride through hills, flat land, etc. My wife and Scott thought this would be an awesome road to ride if better paved.....and I agree. It was about 15 miles of rough road which seem to stretch longer and longer as we had to keep the speeds low (2nd and 3rd gear).
We eventually made it to Milton Road which took us into Valley Springs. From there, we hooked left onto Hwy 12. Hwy 12 was to take us to the River Road and Rio Vista. But, on this day, we decided that was for another day for various reasons, so we took the freeway home.
On a scale of 10, I would rate this ride a 5. The smoke, traffic and rough roads contributed to the lower rating.
French Meadows Reservoir via Mosquito Ridge Road
In July, a group of riders from the Sacramento Road Cruisers joined me on a ride to French Meadows Reservoir, via back roads from Roseville to Auburn, Foresthill and the famous, at least in motorcycle circles, Mosquito Ridge Road.
If you have not ridden Mosquito Ridge Road, then it’s a must for motorcycle enthusiasts. It is unique, approximately 36 miles of road between Foresthill and French Meadows Reservoir, there are hundreds (reputed to be in the neighborhood of 600 – I did not count) of twisty turns along the ridge of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The road is well paved, albeit, you still need to watch for some gravel in spots (droppings from the mountain walls). The scenery….., well let me say it is fantastic at minimum. With overlooks of the canyon, drop offs on one side, mountainous wall on the other, the visage is something to experience.
The destination, French Meadows Reservoir, is located 19 miles east of Foresthill and approximately 14 miles west of Tahoe City as the crow flies. It is a manmade lake that is approximately 5,200 feet in elevation. While this is a great destination for a picnic lunch break, it’s the ride there that counts. It is fantastic, to say the least. And, on this day we did not encounter one cage (vehicle) going in our direction. We did, however, encounter two very humongous cows on the road side. Do be aware of them as I have seen them each time I have ridden this road in addition to deer.
The ride, as mentioned, consists of hundreds of turns, left and right switchbacks, sweeping corners, sweeping U corners, and even a few straights to get the adrenaline pumping. Mostly its 2nd and 3rd gears with a few 4th gears thrown in. This ride is definitely a must do.
This day, we stopped at Worten’s in Foresthill and pick up a picnic lunch to be eaten at the lake. We ate at the first boat ramp on the south side of the lake where there was ample parking for 20 bikes and picnic tables. By the way, make sure to get gas in Foresthill in you plan on looping the ride to either Georgetown or Ice House Road as gas stations on either route are at least 90 to 100 miles away.
This ride we decided to loop back to Georgetown. The plan was to proceed onto French Meadows Road with the intent to take Hell Hole Road, 11 Pines Road and ultimately, Wentworth Springs Road. This would lead us to Stumpy Meadows Lake and ultimately Georgetown.
However, this day, I missed the turn to Hell Hole Road and continued on what I thought was French Meadows Road. After a few miles with no familiar landmarks I knew we were going in the wrong direction. However, with the notion that “all roads lead somewhere” we decided to not back track and proceed on. In our ambitious endeavor, we encountered a serious loggers road, known as Ralston Ridge Rd. Good luck finding it on any map or GPS.
Determined as we were, we continued on to see where it would lead us. With tight switchbacks on a narrow unmarked, pot holed and unkempt road on a very steep descent (25% grade ?) we eventually made it to the bottom of the Rubicon River Reservoir. This road is not for the faint of heart and definitely not for newbie riders. The group I was leading was game though and we continued on. The road eventually looped us back to Mosquito Ridge Rd which we took back to Foresthill, unscathed and the better for it. Ahhhhh, something I always enjoy is to discover roads not frequently traveled.
When all was said and done, we continued on home via Old Foresthill Rd to Hwy 49 towards Placerville. A right on Salmon Falls Road. took us to Folsom/Natoma where we settled at the Purple Place for refreshments. All said everyone enjoyed the ride as I did.
A definitely do again. But, next time, I might try finding Hell Hole Road and 11 Pines Road, just for the heck of it.
If you have not ridden Mosquito Ridge Road, then it’s a must for motorcycle enthusiasts. It is unique, approximately 36 miles of road between Foresthill and French Meadows Reservoir, there are hundreds (reputed to be in the neighborhood of 600 – I did not count) of twisty turns along the ridge of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The road is well paved, albeit, you still need to watch for some gravel in spots (droppings from the mountain walls). The scenery….., well let me say it is fantastic at minimum. With overlooks of the canyon, drop offs on one side, mountainous wall on the other, the visage is something to experience.
The destination, French Meadows Reservoir, is located 19 miles east of Foresthill and approximately 14 miles west of Tahoe City as the crow flies. It is a manmade lake that is approximately 5,200 feet in elevation. While this is a great destination for a picnic lunch break, it’s the ride there that counts. It is fantastic, to say the least. And, on this day we did not encounter one cage (vehicle) going in our direction. We did, however, encounter two very humongous cows on the road side. Do be aware of them as I have seen them each time I have ridden this road in addition to deer.
The ride, as mentioned, consists of hundreds of turns, left and right switchbacks, sweeping corners, sweeping U corners, and even a few straights to get the adrenaline pumping. Mostly its 2nd and 3rd gears with a few 4th gears thrown in. This ride is definitely a must do.
This day, we stopped at Worten’s in Foresthill and pick up a picnic lunch to be eaten at the lake. We ate at the first boat ramp on the south side of the lake where there was ample parking for 20 bikes and picnic tables. By the way, make sure to get gas in Foresthill in you plan on looping the ride to either Georgetown or Ice House Road as gas stations on either route are at least 90 to 100 miles away.
This ride we decided to loop back to Georgetown. The plan was to proceed onto French Meadows Road with the intent to take Hell Hole Road, 11 Pines Road and ultimately, Wentworth Springs Road. This would lead us to Stumpy Meadows Lake and ultimately Georgetown.
However, this day, I missed the turn to Hell Hole Road and continued on what I thought was French Meadows Road. After a few miles with no familiar landmarks I knew we were going in the wrong direction. However, with the notion that “all roads lead somewhere” we decided to not back track and proceed on. In our ambitious endeavor, we encountered a serious loggers road, known as Ralston Ridge Rd. Good luck finding it on any map or GPS.
Determined as we were, we continued on to see where it would lead us. With tight switchbacks on a narrow unmarked, pot holed and unkempt road on a very steep descent (25% grade ?) we eventually made it to the bottom of the Rubicon River Reservoir. This road is not for the faint of heart and definitely not for newbie riders. The group I was leading was game though and we continued on. The road eventually looped us back to Mosquito Ridge Rd which we took back to Foresthill, unscathed and the better for it. Ahhhhh, something I always enjoy is to discover roads not frequently traveled.
When all was said and done, we continued on home via Old Foresthill Rd to Hwy 49 towards Placerville. A right on Salmon Falls Road. took us to Folsom/Natoma where we settled at the Purple Place for refreshments. All said everyone enjoyed the ride as I did.
A definitely do again. But, next time, I might try finding Hell Hole Road and 11 Pines Road, just for the heck of it.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Ride to Bucks Lake & Return via Feather River Canyon
Ride to Bucks Lake is a ride made for the motorcyle purists. On this day, my Lone Wolf posse took the back roads from Marysville via Hwy 20 and into several back roads (i.e., Loma Rica, Los Verjeles, Miners Ranch to name a few) until we finally reach Hwy 162.
If you like sustained speeds (we do), long sweeping curves with a few hairpins thrown in for good measure (yeah), S curves -- left, right, left, (yaahooo) long sweeping loop cures (carnival time) and some straights to wind it out (let er rip), then Hwy 162 is a route to explore. With very little traffic (with exception of the occasional camper or RV), you get to ride to the top of the mountains and see panoramic views for miles of forest, lakes, etc. Several elevation changes are in the mix for some added fun.
All of this is rolled into this little known or traveled hwy, a mountain pass that snakes along the Oroville Reservoir into Bucks Lake and is poorly marked on many maps. In fact, the last time I rode this I encountered about 15 miles of dirt road under construction, (try this with a passenger on board) that was not really fun, to say the least. However, to my pleasant surprise, I became reaquainted with this fresh pavement road of fantastic sweeps and twisties of approximately 50 mile long mountain road. Eutopia.
Heading up the mountain eastbound, riding Hwy 162 for a few miles along the banks of Lake Oroville and working your way to Bucks Lake - I promise you- this is absolute motorcyle heaven -- cruisers style. I have to admit, a huge grin facter was on my face for this smooth, wide, minimal traffic, with several elevation change along the lake, endless curves ahead......what more can you ask?
Stopped at Bucks Lake Lodge for an outdoor meal which was surprisingly good, acknowledged by all riders in the group. With bellies full, thirst quenched, we rode into Quincy for gas and then a return trip, east to west through the Feather Rivers Canyon. Feather River Canyon on Hwy 70 is not a real challenging road, motorcycle wise, to speak of. However, a sustained pace, though very scenic canyon walls, cross overs from left to right, three tunnels thrown in makes this a tranquil and peaceful ride that must be experienced. It is gorgeous and even has train tracks in the canyon walls that look like model trains running. Water, trees, canyon mountain walls, sweepy roads, and a sustained pace makes this a great ride home. East to West is the most visual experience in my opinion and is awesome to see. Back to Oroville finally and then home. A great ride in all.
One note of caution, taking the twisties from Bucks Lake Lodge to Quincy on Bucks Lake Rd should be taken with caution for the sometimes gravel in the curves. Be mindful to avoid. Also, the route towards the exit of the Feather River Canyon can be challenging due to the many slippery tar snakes. Being mindful to navigate through these and you should have no problems.
Approximately eight hours in all including down time (e.g., breaks, gas, lunch, refreshments, stretch, etc.) Approximately 300 miles round trip give or take. A great Saturday ride.
If you like sustained speeds (we do), long sweeping curves with a few hairpins thrown in for good measure (yeah), S curves -- left, right, left, (yaahooo) long sweeping loop cures (carnival time) and some straights to wind it out (let er rip), then Hwy 162 is a route to explore. With very little traffic (with exception of the occasional camper or RV), you get to ride to the top of the mountains and see panoramic views for miles of forest, lakes, etc. Several elevation changes are in the mix for some added fun.
All of this is rolled into this little known or traveled hwy, a mountain pass that snakes along the Oroville Reservoir into Bucks Lake and is poorly marked on many maps. In fact, the last time I rode this I encountered about 15 miles of dirt road under construction, (try this with a passenger on board) that was not really fun, to say the least. However, to my pleasant surprise, I became reaquainted with this fresh pavement road of fantastic sweeps and twisties of approximately 50 mile long mountain road. Eutopia.
Heading up the mountain eastbound, riding Hwy 162 for a few miles along the banks of Lake Oroville and working your way to Bucks Lake - I promise you- this is absolute motorcyle heaven -- cruisers style. I have to admit, a huge grin facter was on my face for this smooth, wide, minimal traffic, with several elevation change along the lake, endless curves ahead......what more can you ask?
Stopped at Bucks Lake Lodge for an outdoor meal which was surprisingly good, acknowledged by all riders in the group. With bellies full, thirst quenched, we rode into Quincy for gas and then a return trip, east to west through the Feather Rivers Canyon. Feather River Canyon on Hwy 70 is not a real challenging road, motorcycle wise, to speak of. However, a sustained pace, though very scenic canyon walls, cross overs from left to right, three tunnels thrown in makes this a tranquil and peaceful ride that must be experienced. It is gorgeous and even has train tracks in the canyon walls that look like model trains running. Water, trees, canyon mountain walls, sweepy roads, and a sustained pace makes this a great ride home. East to West is the most visual experience in my opinion and is awesome to see. Back to Oroville finally and then home. A great ride in all.
One note of caution, taking the twisties from Bucks Lake Lodge to Quincy on Bucks Lake Rd should be taken with caution for the sometimes gravel in the curves. Be mindful to avoid. Also, the route towards the exit of the Feather River Canyon can be challenging due to the many slippery tar snakes. Being mindful to navigate through these and you should have no problems.
Approximately eight hours in all including down time (e.g., breaks, gas, lunch, refreshments, stretch, etc.) Approximately 300 miles round trip give or take. A great Saturday ride.
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