Soaring altitudes, steep inclines, ice-cold mountain lakes, and a winding road. Sound like a recipe for a true road biking challenge? It is— follow the Ebbetts Pass Scenic Byway through the visually dramatic landscapes of California's Sierra Nevada mountains for an experience you won’t forget.
Whether you participate in the formal biking events on the byway or bike it on your own, this byway provides a rigorous course filled with breathtaking sights. Twenty miles from Angel's Camp on the western end of the byway, pedal in awe of the majestic 2,000 year-old sequoias at Calaveras Big Tree State Park. About 30 miles later, get an extra burst of energy when you reach the reflective beauty of Mosquito Lakes. Or pick up supplies at the northern end of the byway in the alpine village shops of Markleeville. On your ride, you’ll reach altitudes as high as 8,700 feet, road grades as intense as 24%, and curves sharp enough to keep the ride interesting.
You’ll find that most of the byway is two-lane rural highway, but between Lake Alpine and Monitor Pass on the northeastern half of the byway, the road becomes a single lane with no defined shoulders. Don’t let that interfere with your biking goals-- few motor vehicles travel along this section. As always, pay attention and share the road. Also note that while some restroom facilities exist at campsites along the byway, most of the ride takes you through pristine wilderness without visitor services.
Along the byway’s northern portion occurs an appropriately named annual biking event, the Death Ride. This immensely popular July ride closes the byway to motor vehicles, stretches 129 miles, rises 15,000 feet, and traverses five passes all within a day. For a milder version, try the Kiss of Death, which follows the same route but lasts four days rather than one, and occurs several times throughout June, July, and August.
Shorter biking events lie along segments of the Ebbetts Pass Scenic Byway. Two such rides in August, the Ebbetts Pass Century and the Bear Valley Metric Century, offer an exciting experience for skilled cyclists. Cover 101 miles and climb a total of 12,800 feet competing in the Century, which runs from Camp Connell to Bear Valley, or ride about 60 miles and climb 6,500 feet in the Metric Century.
Enjoy the alpine splendor of California’s Sierra Nevadas, combined with the physical challenge of a lifetime, when you bike the Ebbetts Pass Scenic Byway.
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