Area Summary
Location: Hwy. 49, 45 miles northeast of Nevada City
Best For: Advanced riders
Suitable For: Strong intermediates and better
Ground Cover: Mostly evergreen forests, lakes and alpine meadows at higher elevations
Seasons: Late spring through fall. Some higher- elevation trails maintain snowpack into June.

Description:
Downieville, a tiny town tucked into a remote region of the Gold Country, is an unlikely mountain biking mecca. However, thanks to the wide range of single-track trails in the surrounding forest and the shuttle services run by local bike shops, the region is a magnet for riders looking for a thrilling downhill experience.

Many find it on the famous Downieville Downhill, a 15- mile, mostly downhill single-track ride that drops 4,000 feet in elevation. Unless you're super-human, this ride requires a shuttle to the trailhead. Fortunately, a few local shops, including Yuba Expeditions and Downieville Outfitters, provide shuttle service for a reasonable price. A wealth of additional trails in this part of the Tahoe National Forest make for exceptional loops as well as shuttle rides for those who want to explore trails less traveled.

The riding around Downieville is definitely geared toward strong intermediate and advanced riders who are confident of their technical skills. Please note that the heavily used Butcher Ranch Trail, one option for the Downieville Downhill, is heavily used and has suffered significant erosion. Please ride with care and avoid skidding. Better yet, use the Pauley Creek Trail, an equally fun option.