Pierce Canyon Climb

Dogs Leashed

E-Bikes Unknown

Road 53 is unique. According to the Yolo County Surveyor, Road 53 has been a public right-of-way since 1889.

You have two options for this ride. You can park at the Guinda post office but I like to park across town at the Vernon A. Nichols County Park is located where Co. Rd. 57 Crosses Cache Creek. Start by heading up Forrest Ave. (aka. Road 53) toward the mountains. At the end of the paved section of the road, the road will turn left (south) and you'll see a gate (see the photo on the side).

The gate will have two signs on it; the first sign will be in the center, and will read: "Livestock - Keep gate closed". The second sign will say "No Trespassing", and will have a handwritten message saying "All the land behind this gate is private property." Trespassers will be prosecuted by the owner. The sign is misleading. Yes, all the land is private, but it is a PUBLIC road. So you may hike it, or bike it.

Stay on the 50-foot wide right-of-way! There are some tempting cattle trails along the creek bottom; don't do it! You'll put the use of this area in jeopardy!

The Gate crossings are annoying, but hang in there it quickly gets very interesting. The narrow road is quickly enveloped by the canyon and surrounding trees. There is an old bridge at about the 3 mile mark, here is where the climbing starts. The grade kicks up and the switch backs kick in. With good technique it is all very ride-able and the views are fantastic. There is even a large, picturesque waterfall in the spring after good rains.

Spoil yourself by rolling on to where the public access ends at two big gates. Then turn around and enjoy the quick descent. There are some switchbacks that you do NOT want to miss; the loose gravel and abrupt drops should keep you in check if you have good disc brakes. Retrace your ride back to the car or look for the Road 57 climb on the other side of the valley for an additional grind.