If you’re looking for the proper way to tour 49er country, then Heart of Gold Gravel is the way to experience.
Just like the search for precious metals, this ride isn’t easy.
Even though the ride starts in the foothills of the Sierra, we’ve learned in this area that the climbs are heavy thanks to the deep cuts from the forks of the Yuba and American Rivers.
For starters, Heart of Gold Gravel starts out of Nevada City, a well-preserved Gold Rush town that relies on tourism yet doesn’t feel touristy.
The ride starts through the commerical hub on Broad St. that’s the closest you’ll feel to biking down Main St. at Disneyland.
Once we crossed Highway 49, the riding got gritty with heavy vert both on the ups and downs with a little washboard mixed in too.
Edwards Crossing Bridge served our first span over the south fork of the Yuba River leading into a robust six mile climb.
One things I love quickly glancing at routes is when you see so many aid stations that you don’t have to plan as is the case with Heart of Gold being on the upper end of stocked items.
After one of the main ones that had sushi coming, I started a sixteen mile loop covering the core of Malakoff Diggins State Park.
Not only did we hit our high point with views built in, but saw historic markings like the 19th century town of North Bloomfield and remnants of hydraulic mining that reshaped the landscape.
While the majority of climbing was on the first half, the second part would still be considered robust thanks mainly to backtracking over the Yuba River.
The festival at the finish line more than did it’s job and a proper spot to hang with this community.
Riding in this part of the Sierra might be intimidating for first timers, but Heart of Gold Gravel properly guides you with great resources that’s the best way to experience this area.