Rating: Moderate Length: 15 Miles Riding Time: 3 to 5 hours Elevations: High 7786’, Low 6100’
Overview: Martin’s Dairy is a peaceful, high mountain campground on the Little Shasta River. The Goosenest District is quickly becoming the area for mountain biking in the Klamath National Forest. Somewhat flatter than other districts, the Goosenest features miles of roads and trails suitable for fat tire bikes, and several new trails are in the works. In the winter, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are popular here. Deer Mountain and Four Corners feature marked snowmobile routes that turn into fun mountain bike trails in the summer months.
The particular ride described here starts in the meadows and aspens around Martin’s Dairy Campground then ascends Ball Mountain, with nice views of the Shasta Valley, Butte Valley and Mount Shasta. The route is mostly on an un-maintained dirt road that is closed to 4WD traffic, so expect lots of peace and quiet. Also expect to see deer, bear and eagles as you pass through high elevation old-growth forests.
Getting there: From Weed, drive approximately 25 miles northeast on Highway 97 to Forest Service Road 46N10 near Mt. Hebron summit. Take 46N10 North to the campground. If you are coming from the Goosenest Ranger Station, take Ball Mountain Road west and follow signs to the campground.
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