Yuba Pass & the Golden Lake Highway loop from Sierra City

This cycling loop is categorized as difficult and requires very good fitness. You'll encounter significant climbs, including Yuba Pass and Gold Lake Summit, with a substantial elevation gain of around 1,720 meters (5,643 feet) over 86.6 kilometers (53.8 miles).

The route is mostly paved. While Highway 49 is generally a wide two-lane road, it can be busy on weekends and is often shoulderless. The Gold Lake Highway section is noted as being in need of repaving, so expect potentially rough surfaces and exercise caution. Traffic on Highway 89 and Gold Lake Highway can also increase on weekends.

You'll be treated to attractive and dramatic mountain scenery. Key highlights include spectacular views of the craggy peaks of the Sierra Buttes, picturesque mountain lakes like Gold Lake, and numerous scenic overlooks as you ascend through tree-lined roads. The route also passes Yuba Pass.

The ideal riding season is from late May until November. The Gold Lake Highway portion of the loop is closed during winter due to snow, so plan your trip accordingly to avoid seasonal road closures.

While specific parking areas in Sierra City are not detailed, it serves as a common starting point for this loop. Look for available parking within Sierra City to begin your ride. Public transportation options to Sierra City are generally limited, so driving and parking are the most common methods of access.

The route traverses parts of the Plumas National Forest. Generally, there are no specific permits required for cycling on established roads within the National Forest, nor are there entrance fees for accessing the area. However, if you plan to camp or use specific facilities, check with the Plumas National Forest for any applicable fees or regulations.

While dogs are often allowed in National Forests, specific rules regarding cycling with dogs on this route are not detailed. If you plan to bring a dog, it's best to check Plumas National Forest regulations regarding pets on roads and trails, and always ensure your dog is leashed and under control.

The estimated duration for this challenging touring bicycle route is approximately 6 hours and 11 minutes of active cycling time. However, this can vary significantly based on your fitness level, speed, and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

For similar Gold Lake Highway loops, a counter-clockwise direction is often recommended. This approach typically allows you to tackle the Gold Lake Summit first, then Yuba Pass, before returning. This might be a favorable strategy when starting from Sierra City, especially considering the potentially rougher surfaces on the Gold Lake Highway.

The Gold Lake Highway area is known for its natural beauty and opportunities for camping. While specific cafes or pubs directly along the Gold Lake Highway are not highlighted, you may find limited services or small stores in nearby communities or at campgrounds. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and supplies for the duration of your ride.

Yes, while primarily a road cycling loop, the route does briefly intersect or run parallel to sections of other trails. These include the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail #2000, PCT - California Section M, PCT - California Section L, Lower Mills Peak Trail, and Church Meadow Road.