My wife and I had the pleasure of riding Downieville yesterday (5-29) and I must say conditions have never been better. The shuttle van couldn't make it quite all the way to the top due to snow, but in the next few days this shouldn't be an issue. There were a few short portages on the road down to Butcher's Ranch and a couple on the first part of the trail but they weren't really any big deal. I was surprised that the water crossing were about the same as they are later in the year, I expected a lot more water on the trail than there was. The trail was just awesome, perfect traction and no dust. The weather couldn't have been better either, everything was as close to perfect as it gets. I hadn't been up to Downieville this early in the year before and I can't recommend strongly enough that you check it out before it gets hot and dusty. As usual Yuba Expeditions is a class act, good vibes from the guys at the shop, Greg always smiling, good tunes in the van on the way up, the shuttle driver loaning out tools and tubes to those in need, and even Ferrentino seemed less grumpy than usual. These guys established Downieville as the destination that it is, and still provide the best service in town. Greg is expecting his fist child any day now yet still seemed as mellow as ever. Big thanks to Yuba Expeditions for everything they have done and continue to do for all us mountain bikers who love the area. There are some new trails being cleared as well, I hear they are more DH orientated. Keep your eyes open for these to open near the end summer.
And now for a few photos
Unloading the van
And now for a few photos
Unloading the van