Heading to Napa Valley This Week, but First… Apr 10, 2018

… I’m hoping to sneak in a few more rides in the high Inyo zone, right after the snowmelt and right before the heat really sets in. This whole region is a literal playground for hardtails and road bikes.

  • showlowitsqueentlee

    more info?

    • I didn’t want to jinx it but since you asked… Right now, I’m thinking of riding Papoose Flat and / or Black Canyon to Poleta Ridge. Pretty chunky and rugged terrain but the views in the area are worth the struggle.

  • Dario

    What’s up in Napa?

    • Doing a story on Curtis Inglis / Retrotec, then over to Santa Rose for Sycip, then to Petaluma for White Industries and Cycle Church. There will be infill throughout, but that’s the gist. Riding MTBs and dirt roads. It’s been years since I’ve ridden in the region.

      • Dario

        All awesome things! I grew up in Calistoga, always psyched to see the area get a nod for all the bike coolness it harbors. If you’re riding with Curtis, ask him about the Angwin/Las Posadas area, excellent trails.

      • Jordan Muller

        Welcome back to Sonoma County sir! Based on one of your past stories, I sought out some repair work from Cycle Chvrch and was super impressed. He’s a great guy and you’re guaranteed to hear some sludgy metal whenever you stop by. Enjoy.

  • Kris Rayner

    After having done a couple of road trips through the East Sierras I’m looking for some good rides to do. I really want to do White Mtn and bag a 14er, but am realistic about the stress of elevation. Any recommendations on first rides and possible bikepacking? I’ve driven the Buttermilk’s and camped in the Alabama Hills and might consider revisiting it on my hard tail.

    • I highly suggest White. It’s amazing but right now it’s under 2′ – 4′ of snow still. If you’re looking for riding in the area, download the MTB Project app and look over all the routes. Most of the riding in Owens is doubletrack, or 4×4 trail, but there are some real gems in there. That post on the left sidebar “Gargantuan Climbs” showcases Silver Canyon road to Silver Canyon Trail. I highly recommend it. It’s an amazingly brutal ride but showcases some of the best vistas in the region. Plus you’ll get a taste of what it means to ride White; pushing your bike at elevation!