Ride Summary:

Terrain: Hilly / Combination of urban and country roads
Climbing: 1,800 ft.
Distance: 45 Miles
Speed: 15-16 mph on flats / definitely slower on hills

Rider Level: Strong Beginner Minimum

Sweep: Yes

This like many rides has a story. Suffice it to say, Kathy O' has a score to settle from the Sierra Century, and this is her chance . . . and your chance to punish Mt. Vernon and Joeger Roads with her up to Auburn.

This moderate paced ride (eg. not a race!) will take a scenic tour of Rocklin, Lincoln, Auburn, and the edge of Penryn; a nice mix of flats, easy rolling hills, and a moderate climb up to Auburn. The Auburn climb is about 1,000 feet, but you do it over about 15 miles, making it easier than most any other route. Nearly all of the climbing is in the first half of the ride (while it's cool) and the return is a whaaaaa-hooooo easy, fun, downhill. There are a couple of short steeper sections in the climb to Auburn, but they're easily walkable if you choose.

This ride is a step up from the hills at Beals Pt. However, you must be a strong beginner or budding intermediate to be able to do this route. You should be comfortable going up and or have been to Beals at least 4/5 times. You should be comfortable on the hills and be able to maintain 15 to 16mph in the flats without getting severely winded. This ride does have some busy roads and some places with fast traffic, even though it is mainly in the country. We do ride along the (wide) shoulder of I-80 for about 200 ft. around Auburn, one of the few places in the area where this is signed for bicycles and legal because of the lack of a reasonable alternative route.

This a swept ride. You will not be dropped or left behind. Those that prefer a faster pace can take off, or hang back and enjoy the scenery; your choice! There's a Starbucks/Togos rest stop at the halfway point (mile 22), and an optional stop at the Trailhead Cafe at mile 37. Bring a few $$$s to support the local economy!

Please remember to bring any water and snacks you will need for this ride, as except for the rest stops, there's not much in between except, cows, trees, and streams. As always, your helmet is required! Don't forget the sunscreen!

We'll meet in front of the Starbucks in the Bel-Air shopping center around 7:15am (to beat the heat) and roll at 7:30am SHARP. Please park away from the stores to make room for their regular customers!

PLEASE PRINT AND BRING YOUR OWN CUE SHEET AND MAP. You can download them from here:

Route Sheet & Map

If you have any questions as to whether this ride is for you please feel free to ask!