Go biking in Tulare, CA, and you'll find some fantastic bike paths to explore. The mountains to the west of the city are full of some of the best mountain biking trails in the state, perfect to get the adrenaline pumping and to stay fit too. We've collected our favorite trails in the area to get you started, so hop on your bike and get started today.
1. Cannell Trail
This long trek through the southern California mountains provides challenging climbs and an infamous downhill finish known as “The Plunge”, an eight-mile stretch at the end of the trail that offers some fantastic views. One of the factors that set this trail apart is its altitude – the first 17 miles of this 25-mile ride are all above 7,000 feet – the trail starts at 9,200 feet, and there's plenty of climbing to do.
Some of the most technical sections are right at the beginning, where you'll be faced with loose dirt and tough climbs through alpine meadows. The trail starts at Sherman Pass, above the town of Kernville, CA, dropping immediately down to a meadow, before a very steep climb up to a saddle at 9,400 feet, the highest point on the trail. It's worth bringing a map, as the trail is far from obvious and often crosses fire roads. Motorcycles are allowed on some sections, so keep an ear out.
2. Slate Mountain Loop
This physically demanding loop through the heart of the Great Sequoia National Monument will take you through more demanding high-altitude country. However, there are some excellent views, and the singletrack through the groves of giant sequoia trees will more than make up for the lack of phone signal. In total, the trail is about 23 miles long, with an elevation gain of over 4,700 feet.
The trail starts from Camp Nelson, near the general store, but it is possible to skip part of the climb by taking a shuttle bus to Quaking Aspen Campground and picking up the trail there. There's a couple of creeks to ford and a small section of highway connecting the two arms of the loop.
3. Case Mountain Road and Skyline in Three Rivers
If these tough, high-altitude treks seem a bit much, then Case Mountain Fire Road is a great option for a smooth climb, that's not too strenuous or challenging. It also provides a vital link to other singletrack trails further up, as well as making a good out-and-back climb.
It's a steady climb for most of the ride, with many branches that lead to side-trails. A great way to get back down is to take the singletrack connector trail at around the 4.5-mile mark, and then follow the Skyline in Three Rivers trail back to the parking lot.
These are our favorite mountain bike trails for a day in the hills, but maybe there's some we've missed? Then visit us at Stone Chevrolet Buick GMC today and tell us. And, if you need a new vehicle to get you and your bike up the mountain, we've got you covered.
