Modesto Cycling Story
By Mike Mirabile
During a recent adventure motorcycle ride with some friends and other people I had just met, the subject of mountain biking in Modesto came up. A couple of guys were explaining to each other how they both had nice bikes but they were no longer riding because there was nowhere around Modesto to ride. I listened in as they both went on about how they hadn’t been riding due to the lack of riding spots around here and how it was so much better when they lived near the bay. At some point I had heard enough and felt I needed to educate these guys on how lucky they really were. I finally butted in and explained to them: you know guys, I think of Modesto as one of the sweetest spots in the world to base my riding from. 2 hours West I’m in the Santa Cruz Mountains – some of the best mountain biking anywhere, 2 hours East I’m the Lake Alpine / Bear Valley area – again, world class mountain biking to suit any skill level, an hour and a half North I’m At Auburn Ravine or Salmon Falls, an hour and a half northeast I’m at Pinecrest Peak, the list goes on. I continued to explain to them how I loved riding our local trails near Dry Creek and how I utilized the canal banks for my fitness rides. At this point I had their attention, I went on about Modesto’s affordable living and (what I consider) competitive job market.
If you like to ride bikes of any sort, Modesto is a great place to base your riding from. Before you get discouraged about the cycling situation in and around Modesto check out some of these rides; also consider the coastline hike and bike tour. People come from all over the world to enjoy the California coastline, a tour we can start 45 minutes away from home at the Pleasanton BART, we did it “it was awesome!” Between Half Moon bay and Big Sur we met the coolest, like minded people from all over the world, all out to enjoy cycling the length of the California coastline.
In addition to all of these mountain biking spots, all of these areas also promote some of the best, most beautiful supported road rides. And don’t count out the supported road rides in our own area; we have some really great rides around here. Check your local cycling calendars for some of these great rides. Also check in with your local bike shops to find out about weekly group rides.
Great riding, within reach! Happy Trails!
Lake Alpine / Bear Valley – numerous trails, 2 hours drive from Modesto Santa Cruz – Demonstration State Forest, Nicene Marks , Wilder Ranch, 2 hours drive Pinecrest Peak – Epic trails, 1:45 drive Auburn Ravine – numerous trails, 1:45 drive Salmon Falls – great out and back, big fun!, 1:45 drive
Less than 1 hour drive: Red Hills New Hogan New Melones Pleasanton Ridge trails Lake Chabot
