2.7
(29)
37
riders
Pa'san Ridge Trail
01:54
16.9km
530m
Mountain biking
The Pa'san Ridge Trail offers a diverse and challenging mountain biking experience within the San Joaquin River Gorge, featuring rocky sections, quick climbs, and fun singletrack. You'll ride through oak woodlands and meadow-filled terrain, with granite outcrops lining the river, and enjoy views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains from ridge overlooks. The trail is known for its wildflowers in season and can be narrow in places, providing a true test of technical riding skills.
To plan your visit, note that there is a $5 parking fee at the San Joaquin River Gorge parking lot. The trail is multi-use, so you will share it with hikers and equestrians. It's best to tackle this route during the fall, winter, or spring months, as summer temperatures can be extremely hot and make for less enjoyable riding conditions.
This moderate 10.5-mile (16.9 km) mountain biking loop gains 1747 feet (532 metres) in about 1 hour and 54 minutes, making it a significant workout. The trail follows prehistoric trade routes of the Mono Indians and was originally developed for hikers and horses, giving it a natural and often technical character that provides a good test for modern mountain biking abilities.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Tips
Includes very steep uphill segments
You may need to push your bike.
After 8.87 km for 415 m
After 15.3 km for 177 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
1.56 km
Foot bridge over San Joaquin River
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
5.41 km
San Joaquin River Gorge
Highlight • Gorge
Tip by
16.9 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
16.9 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
16.9 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (550 m)
Lowest point (210 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Thursday 9 July
36°C
19°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park for the Pa'san Ridge Trail?
You can typically park at the San Joaquin River Gorge parking lot. Be aware that there is usually a $5 fee to park there.
Are there any fees or permits required to access the trail?
Yes, there is typically a $5 parking fee at the San Joaquin River Gorge parking lot to access the trail. No specific permits for riding are mentioned.
What is the best time of year to mountain bike the Pa'san Ridge Trail?
Due to very hot summers, the trail is most enjoyable during the fall, winter, and spring seasons. These seasons offer more pleasant temperatures for riding.
How difficult is the Pa'san Ridge Trail for mountain biking?
The trail is generally considered a moderate mountain bike ride, requiring good fitness. Some sections, particularly the eastern half, can be very rocky and challenging, even requiring 'hike-a-bike' in places. It's best suited for riders with advanced skills if you aim to stay in the saddle throughout.
Is the Pa'san Ridge Trail a loop, and which direction is recommended?
Yes, most people ride it as a loop. It's often recommended to ride the loop clockwise. This typically starts with a climb and ends with a fun descent back to the bridge. One suggestion is to take the left trail for an easier, less rocky uphill section.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the trail?
The trail is primarily singletrack with a mix of surfaces. You'll encounter downhill sections, climbs, and some rocky areas, including a 'rock garden' near the top. It passes through chaparral uplands, meadowlands, and oak woodlands, with the San Joaquin River lined by granite outcrops in the valley.
What scenic views or points of interest will I encounter?
You'll enjoy breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The trail crosses a scenic footbridge over the San Joaquin River, offering views of the river and the PG&E Kerckoff Powerhouse. You'll also pass through the dramatic San Joaquin River Gorge, with wildflowers blooming in season.
Is the Pa'san Ridge Trail shared with other users, and are dogs allowed?
Yes, the trail is shared with hikers and horseback riders, so mountain bikers should be mindful of other users. While not explicitly stated, dogs are generally allowed in the San Joaquin River Gorge Special Recreation Area, but always ensure they are on a leash and you clean up after them.
Does the trail connect to other well-known paths?
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Wuh-ki'o Trail and the San Joaquin River Trail. The Wuh-ki'o Trail connects directly from Pa'san Ridge.
What is the historical significance of the trail's name?
The trail's name, Pa'san, translates to 'pine nut' in the language of the Dumna and Kechayi Native Americans, who historically inhabited this area. The Wuh-ki'o Trail, which connects to it, is also named after the Dumna/Kechayi term for the San Joaquin River.
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