Stanislaus National Forest

Elephant Rock Loop (8 Miles, Easy, Hiking Trail, Gravel and Dirt Roads)

The highlights of this 7000 foot elevation ride are splendid views of Union Reservoir and Elephant Rock Lake. They lie cradled in the ancient, iceberg-scarred granite of this very scenic Sierra area. The ride is moderately long on mostly level terrain, providing an enjoyable experience for riders of all skill levels. Please note that the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness is quite near on the north and east, and remember that mountain bikes are not allowed within the designated Wilderness. The best spot to begin and end this ride is the gravel parking lot at the end of 7N75 on the south side of Union Reservoir.

Lake Alpine Loop (5 Miles, Easy, Hiking Trail and 4-Wheel Drive Road)

Lake Alpine provides a beautiful backdrop for your mountain biking on this popular trail. On the north of the lake are a few modest grades, but overall this is an easy ride. Please be careful of hikers, especially on weekends and holidays, as many people come to enjoy the area. If you prefer more solitude, ride this trail on week days. Numerous alternatives exist for parking along Highway 4.

Bear Trap Basin Loop (8 Miles, Moderate, 4-Wheel Drive Roads and Hiking Trail)

The first section of this ride includes a hearty climb, but your efforts are rewarded with spectacular views of the Mokelumne Wilderness from the ridges. In Bear Trap Basin are beautiful meadows and groves of Quaking Aspen, both seasonally home to a variety of wildflowers. In addition to the loop there is a 3.5 mile trail skirting the ski slopes and returning to Bear Valley. The bike ride begins and ends at the Corral Hollow 4WD Road west of Bear Valley at Highway 4, with plenty of parking available.

Jelmini Basin Loop (17 Miles, Moderate, Hiking and OHV Trails, 4-Wheel Drive and Dirt Roads)

If you are in the mood for a moderately long ride with a good variety of trail characteristics, this is the one for you. Much of the ride is on ridges with views "forever", and there are some nice long downhills past aspen groves and tranquil mountain meadows. Start this ride at 7N09 and Highway 4 near Cabbage Patch Maintenance Station or drive a short distance up 7N09 to begin. Some parking is available at each location.

Slick Rock Ride (22 Miles, Difficult, Hiking Trail, 4-Wheel Drive, Gravel and Paved Roads)

This lengthy journey includes many kinds of riding experiences. You can begin on a hiking trail that is a portion of the Old Emigrant Road, then traverse a lengthy section of very rough 4WD road past Slick Rock and onto gravel and newly paved portions of forest roads, then back up Highway 4 through Bear Valley. The scenery is wonderful throughout, as the elevations range from 7800 feet on Osborn Hill to 6400 feet near the Stanislaus River, all through rugged granite country supporting red fir and the whole range of plants that flourish at these elevations. There are great swimming holes in the Slick Rock area, and splendid views across Utica Reservoir.

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Trail Difficulty Ratings

Trails and routes are rated using a standardized trail difficulty rating system in common use throughout the recreation industry.