Reviewed by: Bergie

Summary:
I hope you like walking over granite shards, 'cause that's what you'll be doing a lot of. Too much of the trail is unrideable and the parts that are are not worth the effort it takes to get there. Oh, it should also be pointed out that the PCT (i.e. the Pacific Crest Trail) is very well marked with "NO BIKING" signage. Keep riding on it and you may find out just how much more political clout the hikers have over mountain bikers. Stunning views and good swimming keep me from totally disliking this place. (And, seriously, bring a map)

Recommended Route:
I guess the best route is from Gold Lake, around it and up to the other lakes in the area. ("Recommended" is used loosely here.)

Other recommended trails in the same area:
Geez, just go do Downieville

Reviewed by: Santa Cruz Rider , from santa cruz, CA

Summary:
These trails are not for beginners or beginner intermediate ridders. You need to be an advanced rider or better, but if you are you will love these trails! I have been ridding here for a few years and as I learn the network it continues to get better and better. The trails are full of rocks, drops and roots. Some parts you will need to go very slow and pick your way through obstacles that are like threading a needle while dropping 2 feet at the same time. On other parts you will be peddling very hard while leaning into the turns and ripping through the forest. I went down a few times but it was all very worth it b/c these trails are sick and fun! Enjoy the views, you will have a new one at every turn.

Recommended Route:
Camp on Gold Lake and ride from Gold Lake lodge (up the road a bit) to Round lake then to Long lake and on to some of the other lakes. BRING A MAP! This place is big and it is easy to get lost and exhausted. It will get cold most nights so don't get lost after dark b/c you will be alone with the bears ;)

Other recommended trails in the same area:
Emigrant trail in Truckee, Chimney Rock, Big Boulder

Reviewed by: mikeb , from Sodom in the North

Summary:
these trails are hard. if your technical skills are average (like mine) you'll find yourself walking a lot on these trails. due to the fact that these trails are'nt for everyone, i can only give this trail network three tires. if you have a difficult time riding up and over really steep, rocky terrain (you have to see these trails to even begin to understand what i'm talking about) stick to the other better-known rides in the area.

Recommended Route:
camping is available near the trailhead. there's a really cool drive in campsite in this area in which you can set your tent up on some sort of old foundation with the whole castle-like thing around it.

Other recommended trails in the same area:
no, not at all. duh!

Reviewed by: Focker , from San Francisco

Summary:
Aaron did a good job, bring a map. Ask Greg at Yuba in Downieville for more details.

Recommended Route:
Endless singletrack

Other recommended trails in the same area:
big boulder, Butcher Ranch, Polley Creek