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Yahoo's Top Five Mt. Bike rides in Northern California |  |
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Here are the top five mt. bike rides as rated by a Yahoo writer. California Mountain Biking: Top 5 Rides in Northern California By Abby McMillin | Yahoo! Contributor Network California, well-known for its adventure seekers and gorgeous landscape, is the perfect place to find a mountain bike trail to fit your unique style. Whether you're in it for the scenery or seeking to improve your technical skills, California really has it all. With so many choices, here's a list of five rides that combine beautiful panoramas and engaging trails: 1. American River Bike Path, Sacramento: This beautifully paved bike path stretches 32 miles along the American River. It has over 10 different access points to customize the duration of your ride. With its generous curves and 435 feet elevation gain, it's the perfect ride for moderate recreation. Well equipped with mile-markers, bathrooms and water stops along the way -- you can ride to historical parts of Sacramento or visit several city parks. This would be a great ride for a family outing and well suited for a group with varying abilities. 2. Foresthill Divide Loop Trail, Auburn: This well-thought out and professionally executed single track loop goes for just over 11 miles. With dips and climbs, this trail winds through oak forests and crosses a dividing ridge of the American River. This loop is moderately technical, without being too advanced. It's a superb track for anyone out for an exciting trail ride. There's plenty to grab your attention along this highly varied trail. Enjoy the Sierra Foothills scenery, but watch out for rocks and exposed tree roots along the path. Bullards Bar Loop, Nevada City: Ride for the total 22 miles or find something equally as fun along the way. This trail has awesome opportunities for swimming and camping to turn any-day ride into a weekend adventure. The diversity of this mountain bike path will please intermediates but also keep the thrill seekers busy. Parts of the course are narrow and edgy, while others offer a smooth, wide surface ride. Gaining 1,700 feet in elevation along the way, this loop is sure to give you a workout if you want one. 3. Big Basin Redwood State Park, Saratoga: With the incredible shade of the most magnificent redwoods around, riders won't mind a hot, sunny day ride. This trail can be quite the challenge for intermediates and offer some technical tests even for seasoned veterans. A stunning environment for a ride -- this 16-mile loop climbs 2,000 feet over short, steep gradients. Take on the challenge, catch some ocean views, and work those leg muscles on this steady incline. 4. Upper Bidwell Park, Chico: With multiple, unmarked trails to choose from, there's something for everyone here. Perfect for a rider who's up for an exploration -- this is a great chance to experience the picturesque parts of the Chico Creek. These loops offer the chance for discovery just outside of this bike-friendly community. The North Rim trail sets you up for fantastic view of Sierra Nevada and is a decent ride for intermediates. Beginners and advanced riders can find their stride with multiple loops to explore over 11 miles of stimulating terrain. To read the original article on Yahoo CLICK HERE |
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SNAKEBITE ON THE TRAILS...DO'S, DON'TS, DRY BITES 06/18/2013 15:52:43