BEAR VALLEY TO KYBURZ – 116 MILES

Blissful forested two-track awaits just outside of Bear Valley, as you meander through the deep pines before reaching the backwoods pavement of Winton Road. Heads up, Winton Road closes on Nov 1st or after the first significant snowfall. The route continues west via scenic paved roads into Buckhorn, then follows narrow primitive dirt and paved roads along the Mokelumne River where several great camping opportunities can be found.

Advanced riders can take the optional ALT Harder track via 7N08 for a primitive downhill dirt road prone to ruts and washouts, dropping you out right along the picturesque river, but be advised this road is gated until late spring each year.

Steep dilapidated pavement switchbacks take you up the other side of the canyon, topping out with an epic traverse of the Bear River Reservoir dam. Soon, the route follows Hwy 88 then continues northward on forested tracks with an optional quick out-and-back to the Leek Springs Hill Lookout Tower (7,621’). A short ride on the historic Mormon Emigrant Trail leads to even more forested dirt and the end of Section 3 on Hwy 50 in the tiny town of Kyburz.