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Eight miles at 8% average with plenty of 10-15% loose sections. Bring plenty of H2O. Views of the valley are amazing.


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Map Key

8.0

Miles

12.9

KM

Doubletrack

7,814' 2,382 m

High

4,827' 1,471 m

Low

3,016' 919 m

Up

56' 17 m

Down

7%

Avg Grade (4°)

23%

Max Grade (13°)

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Allowed

Description

Clark's Grade was established as a toll road for livestock in the 1880s, according to Nat, the kind ranger at Bluff Lake.

The track starts out relatively easy from Seven Oaks, but picks up to an 8% grade and above after about a mile. My GPS consistently read 10-14% up the switchbacks. What makes this particularly tough is the loose sand along with steeper grades, as choosing lines and traction become an additional concern when climbing.

We did this trail bikepacking with about 10-15 extra pounds on our bikes. It took about 2.5 hours under load.

The views are astounding and getting to the top is a wonderful feeling. Take in the views while doing the switchbacks between deep breaths!

Contacts

Shared By:

Matt Canale

Trail Ratings

  4.0 from 2 votes

#12870

Overall
  4.0 from 2 votes
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Trail Rankings

#952

in California

#12,870

Overall
6 Views Last Month
2,235 Since Nov 8, 2016
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Photos

Top of the grade at dusk.
Nov 8, 2016 near Big Bea…, CA
Up the switches.
Nov 8, 2016 near Big Bea…, CA
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Current Trail Conditions

Unknown
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