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.