Favorite 50-100 mile loops in the Bay Area [Archive] - Women's Cycling Discussion Forums

andtckrtoo

03-04-2009, 04:19 AM

Hi all - I have been quiet most of the winter, but I am ready to come out of hiding and start riding again (well, I have been riding, but not as much). I'm just curious if anyone has any favorite loops in the Bay Area. Just looking for ride ideas. :D

maillotpois

03-04-2009, 06:43 AM

The possibilities for loops like this in Marin/Sonoma are endless. Do you have a Krebs map? You can ride from the city or go start off Lucas Valley Rd. You can include some or all of Mt. Tam, Marshall, Wilson Hill, Chileno Valley Rd., Coleman Valley Rd., Bohemian Hwy.

Honestly there are just too many options and I don't have them all mapped out as individual rides. I usually just do a smorgasbord and decide how I feel. From Mill Valley to Pt Reyes Station and then down Hwy 1, coming back either BoFax or Pantoll is a favorites of ours. That's in the 60 mile range. BoFax adds quite a bit of climbing because you get to do the *ahem* "sisters" on Ridgecrest.

Or From MV up to Nicasio, Cheese factory, Marshall and then down Hwy 1 and either all the way down 1 and over Pantoll of over Olema hill. That's more in the 80 range.

Or go to Nicasio and ride up over Wilson, Chileno Valley, through Freestone, over Coleman Valley Rd then back down over Marshall. That's about 90. Lots of climbing - GREAT loop. 2 bakeries - if you drop into Pt Reyes Station it can be a THREE bakery ride. :D

Sounds like we should ride. :D

andtckrtoo

03-04-2009, 09:13 AM

I think we SHOULD ride!! I will be joining up on one of the Buddy Rides for the Team in Training. I've been dying to ride with you, Jo and Melissa. I'm just not sure which one yet. :P I'd love to do the one this weekend, but I've been a bad girl and haven't been riding. Need to get my butt in gear...

jobob

03-04-2009, 09:33 AM

Excellent! I'll be great to finally meet you.

jobob

03-04-2009, 09:39 AM

An out and back on Calaveras Road from Sunol is nice, only about 30 miles with a reasonably mild climb. Plus there's Bosco's and the Sunol Cafe at the end of the ride. :cool:

melissam

03-04-2009, 10:09 AM

An out and back on Calaveras Road from Sunol is nice, only about 30 miles with a reasonably mild climb. Plus there's Bosco's and the Sunol Cafe at the end of the ride. :cool:

Yep, one of our favorite rides, for all the reasons that Jo mentioned, plus ... the scenery's gorgeous and there's hardly any traffic.

I have some other ideas for loops on andtckrtoo's side of the Bay, but I'll have to post them some other time as duty calls.

Veronica

03-04-2009, 10:20 AM

I'd like to know when those buddy rides are. :p

Veronica

maillotpois

03-04-2009, 10:33 AM

Technically, the "TNT buddy rides" are only open to folks registered for a ride with TNT (liability issues). However, our event (Death Ride) is open for registration w/TNT through March 14, so all rides until then are open to others. After that, we'll have to just set up a ride on our own (not that that's a problem!)

:)

Veronica

03-04-2009, 11:26 AM

Well I miss riding with my buds so we NEED to organize something on one of your free weekends. :D

Veronica

andtckrtoo

03-04-2009, 11:30 AM

And I need all the help I can to get my mileage and hill climbing up to ride the LiveStrong 100 miler.

maillotpois

03-04-2009, 11:54 AM

I could do a Marin ride 3/15 (Sunday). The next date I could realistically participate wouldn't be til 5/23. Have to juggle kid and team, etc.

aka_kim

03-04-2009, 12:10 PM

I've always liked that Ink Grade loop of SadieKate's, which I guess you DR folks did some version of a few weeks ago.

Team Whiner is taking applications for membership, all that's required is enthusiastic whining on a frequent basis. We of course only ride when the weather is good.

jobob

03-04-2009, 12:23 PM

I've always liked that Ink Grade loop of SadieKate's, which I guess you DR folks did some version of a few weeks ago.

Yes, we had started out from St. Helena. It was about 40 miles and 2800 ft of climbing. It was very nice out there, apart from all the rain. I could do without the rain...

Here's a map of the route we took:

http://maps.google.com/maps?q=http:%2F%2Ffb.bargolf.net%2Fmymb%2Fact2kml.php%3Fmymbactid%3D884125&ie=UTF8&z=11

And for more fun we could go up nearby Spring Mountain Road (not!!! :p).

maillotpois

03-04-2009, 12:52 PM

What about a Marshall Wall/Bovine Bakery loop from Fairfax or something?

parity

03-04-2009, 12:54 PM

Anything that goes over to the coast and back are my favorites. Like up Page Mill, down West Alpine, left on Pescadero, the right on Stage Road, left on Highway 1 and up Tunitas Creek, and then down Kings Mountain. Or any the other variations using Old La Honda, or Kings Mountain to get up to Skyline and then use Highway 84 to go down.

Going to San Francisco and back is kinda cool, but not very scenic. Going the opposite way to Santa Cruz along highway 1 is pretty nice. However during these months I generally stay on the east side of the mountains.

jobob

03-04-2009, 01:03 PM

Anything that involves a bakery gets extra points from me. And Fairfax has a great ice cream shop as well.

No, it's not all about the food. Just mostly ...

Karma007

03-04-2009, 01:04 PM

I'm in Martinez, and am looking for fiends (no type-o)! If you can handle the blistering pace of 10-17 mph (I'm good except for hills. I hate hills) I'm in! I'm training for the Cinderella, then it's off the the Livestrong SJO.

maillotpois

03-04-2009, 01:13 PM

Ok - so what about 3/15 meet at 9:30 am in Fairfax at the java hut there across from Iron Springs Brewery. The Cheese factory/Marshall/Pt Reyes Station loop is probably 60 miles from there.

Who's in?

jobob

03-04-2009, 02:03 PM

I'm in.

(hopefully Evil Coach Sarah doesn't make me ride up a freakin' canyon wall the day before :rolleyes:)

maillotpois

03-04-2009, 02:08 PM

The Saturday TNT ride is pretty easy - I won't say there's not a sting in the tail, because there is, but overall it is way easier than last week.

(And since it is close to home, that's why I am trying to fit our TE ride in on Sunday. I just can't be gone all day Saturday like last week and then do a ride on Sunday as well. Just not ok.)

What? No comment on the "... across from Iron Springs Brewery" aspect of the post? :p

jobob

03-04-2009, 02:12 PM

It was noted. Do you think they might serve beer there?

andtckrtoo

03-04-2009, 02:21 PM

So this would be a 60 mile loop? How tough? I haven't been riding too much, but I'll get a good 50 miler under my belt this weekend, so that should be good. And there's beer at the end :eek: Oh heck, I'm there... There is nothing better than an ice cold beer after a long ride.

Veronica

03-04-2009, 02:34 PM

We're a definite maybe.

We're in the process of buying an Adventure Trailer and might be doing stuff that weekend to the car to be able to haul said trailer.

Shorter is better for us. Have you looked at my BJ entries, not too many rides. And I've been sick off and on the last two weeks. First with a stomach thing, now a nice little cold that won't leave.

And I had the parent conference from h8ll today. Religious mom screamed at me for 15 minutes because three months ago I told her boy I was worried he was going to become a thug. Whatever... I need to turn on my "This is not MY problem." button.

He already is a thug... hanging around after school waiting to intimidate other kids.

Must stop thread hijack. Thom's got some whiskey he really likes... maybe I need some.

Veronica

maillotpois

03-04-2009, 02:40 PM

It was noted. Do you think they might serve beer there?

Indeed they might. I am a fan of their Annamarie Amber.

Christine and V -

We can tailor this route to be shorter if people want. But it is a pretty mild 60 miler, even though it includes Marshall. I'd say 3000 feet. You guys should be fine.

And V - have some whiskey. It may also help your cold.

Veronica

03-04-2009, 02:47 PM

You are dead on with that mileage my dear. :D You must ride that loop quite often. I just checked it out in my Garmin software. What a weenie I am , huh.

Is it wrong to mix whiskey with hot water? Hot just seems like it would feel better on my throat.

Veronica

jobob

03-04-2009, 04:29 PM

Is it wrong to mix whiskey with hot water?

Heavens, no. You could always spike your tea with it. :cool:

aka_kim

03-04-2009, 04:30 PM

I'm in Martinez, and am looking for fiends
Fiends! Well, I hear that Evil Coach MP is a bit fiendish, so you've come to the right place! :) I'm in Concord, and I suppose I could be described as a fiend, or worse.

I'm a maybe, since the weather must be perfect, and I'd prefer some sort of shorter/easier option too.

V - have a drink for me too. Please.

jobob

03-04-2009, 04:33 PM

I'll see if LeeBob wants to come along. He hasn't been riding a heck of a lot either lately.

Perhaps we could all head out together and then split up at some convenient point and then regroup (at the bakery, perhaps)?

Veronica

03-04-2009, 04:33 PM

Well, I opted for just plain tea.

Good news - it looks like the weather will be good this weekend. For a change!

Veronica

Veronica

03-04-2009, 04:37 PM

It's too bad the people at Nicassio have made parking there a pain in the neck.

Starting at the Cheese Factory makes it like a 30 mile loop. I want 40 - 50. I know, I'm being a PITA. I've had a difficult couple of weeks. Humor me. Oh wait... I forgot I'm a princess. You should just do my bidding. :p

Veronica

maillotpois

03-04-2009, 04:44 PM

You are dead on with that mileage my dear. :D You must ride that loop quite often.

Yeah but I usually do it from home so I was guesstimating.

Perhaps we could all head out together and then split up at some convenient point and then regroup (at the bakery, perhaps)?

There are plenty of options if we start from Fairfax to make it shorter or longer depending on what people want.

Veronica

03-04-2009, 04:48 PM

You know what I want... I want to do a fun ride with my friends and then eat some good food at a place with good beer 'cause my biking friends like beer. :D

Veronica

maillotpois

03-04-2009, 04:52 PM

Sounds good!

They also have really good nachos and really good calamari at this brewery. And French onion soup. Hmm... maybe it's dinner time. :rolleyes:

andtckrtoo

03-04-2009, 05:24 PM

I'm happy with the 60 miler. I'm happy with a shorter route. I'm happy with a bakery. I'm happy with beer. I'll bring my bike, and meet you wherever you tell me to, and then I'll hop on the bike and ride until you tell me to get off. Now, I would prefer at least a 40 miler, but all else is negotiable.

Karma007

03-05-2009, 07:20 AM

I want to play too! I can do 40, would love to do 50, and will do 60 if I have to to get a beer...

andtckrtoo

03-05-2009, 07:58 AM

Lori - what route on the LiveStrong ride are you doing? I'm aiming for the 100 miler.

Karma007

03-05-2009, 08:17 AM

I'm doing the 100 too! It will be my first century, and I'm pretty excited. The Cinderella will be my first metric, so I've been trying to get ready for that, despite the rain.

andtckrtoo

03-05-2009, 08:39 AM

Great - I hope to meet you on the 15th! I'd love to have someone to ride the century with! :D Everyone else seems to be riding the Death Ride. :rolleyes:

jobob

03-05-2009, 09:33 AM

I do believe the founder and membership chair of Team Whiner is doing the Livestrong as well.

aka_kim

03-05-2009, 01:31 PM

Yes indeed. I hope to ride the 100k with Emerald and Team Triumph.

And just a reminder, it is open enrollment season for Team Whiner, so hurry while this opportunity lasts! :D

Karma007

03-05-2009, 01:58 PM

Expain yourself, Team Whiner! I like wine, and to whine, and live and ride near by! What is this team you speak of?

Veronica

03-05-2009, 03:03 PM

You know... I think Jo, Kim and I have been to that pub. I do believe Jo and Kim went to several bakeries that day, while Thom and I rode up Bolinas Rd.

Veronica

maillotpois

03-05-2009, 03:06 PM

It's right by Sunshine bikes.

jobob

03-05-2009, 04:10 PM

You know... I think Jo, Kim and I have been to that pub. I do believe Jo and Kim went to several bakeries that day, while Thom and I rode up Bolinas Rd.

Yep. We know what's important. :cool:

aka_kim

03-05-2009, 07:19 PM

Expain yourself, Team Whiner!
Well, find out for yourself. There's a TW ride this Saturday doing a Calaveras out-and-back for either 25 or 30 miles. If you're interested, let me know.

You know... I think Jo, Kim and I have been to that pub.I believe you are right!

Yep. We know what's important. :cool:Indeed.

Karma007

03-06-2009, 07:19 AM

Wait-Is that the Cinderella training ride with Velogirls?

jobob

03-06-2009, 07:20 AM

No, it's a bunch of friends getting together for a ride.

dachshund

03-06-2009, 10:05 AM

Anyone up for a ride on Sunday? Melissam and I are going to do a ride to San Gregorio Beach and back from the Palo Alto Park & Ride Lot. It's about 54 miles and 4900 feet of climbing.

Here's the map:
http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/258464

It should be a beautiful day for riding to the beach! The proposed starting time is 10:00, although that's not set in stone.
Anyone interested?

(Remember that we're setting clocks ahead Saturday night.)

andtckrtoo

03-06-2009, 10:22 AM

Damn! I haven't been doing enough riding to do that one Dachs... But I would so love to join you two!! Maybe next time. I'm going to get some hills very very soon.

Karma007

03-06-2009, 10:28 AM

I'm out this weekend, but, barring the unforseen (I'll keep you posted) I'm in for next Sunday. Mmmm...beer....

aka_kim

03-06-2009, 08:29 PM

... a ride to San Gregorio Beach and back from the Palo Alto Park & Ride Lot. It's about 54 miles and 4900 feet of climbing.

Why yeah, that looks like a great ride, for JUNE, when I might be in shape. Oh wait, in JUNE you'll be planning 100 mile rides with 10,000 feet of climbing, so nevermind.

You're one sick puppy, dachshund. :p

maillotpois

03-07-2009, 05:46 AM

Oh wait, in JUNE you'll be planning 100 mile rides with 10,000 feet of climbing, so nevermind.

You're one sick puppy, dachshund. :p

Gah! It's like you saw my training calendar for them or something!! :p

dachshund

03-09-2009, 07:59 PM

maillotpois

03-09-2009, 08:18 PM

Well alrighty then! 2 days in a row. We'll all be sick of each other by the end of the day Sunday.... :D:D:D:D

jobob

03-09-2009, 08:40 PM

Yeah, and I'm supposed to be cutting back on the post-ride beers, so I'll be grumpy as well. :mad:

maillotpois

03-09-2009, 08:53 PM

Not the beer - just the food.

jobob

03-09-2009, 09:21 PM

Oh. You're my new best friend!

maillotpois

03-11-2009, 08:11 AM

Just to review: Sunday 3/15 meet at 9:30 am in Fairfax at the java hut across from Iron Springs Brewery. 50 - 60 miles plus a bakery finishing with beer.

In:

Jobob (& Leebob?)
Dachsund
V & Thom
andtckrtoo
tofu
MP
Kim?

Did I miss anyone?

Karma007

03-11-2009, 09:31 AM

Sadly (snif) Tofu is out. I completely forgot about a skills class thingy I'm going to on Saturday, which leaves me staying close to home on Sunday (Bf and I kind of have a deal). Have a beer (or two) for me, and I'll try to catch you next time.

melissam

03-11-2009, 09:55 AM

I'm in!!

I'll try to do my part for the team and have an extra beer for Tofu.

- Melissa

andtckrtoo

03-11-2009, 10:14 AM

*hangs head as she walks in to forum* Unfortunately, I'm going to have to pass, too. I've been dealing with some personal issues and I have to get these resolved. I'm really sorry ladies. I am so upset.

Karma007

03-11-2009, 10:37 AM

I'm in!!

I'll try to do my part for the team and have an extra beer for Tofu.

- Melissa

Thanks Melissam! I appreciate the extra effort you will put in on my behalf!:cool:

melissam

03-11-2009, 10:44 AM

Thanks Melissam! I appreciate the extra effort you will put in on my behalf!:cool:

You know me -- I'm here to help! ;)

mariposa

03-12-2009, 09:57 AM

Here are my favorites in four different counties!

1. Anything involving the climb up Tunitas Creek Road on the Peninsula. You can go down either Alpine or the 84 to get there. Rough pavement on Tunitas; best done uphill.

2. Another vote for the Calaveras out-and-back! NO traffic. Worth doing as an out-and-back, for this reason alone. Gorgeous. ~20 miles each way.

3. Clockwise around Mt. Diablo via Morgan Territory Road. Good for early season, when it's still green out there and not too hot yet. ~55 miles, hilly, rough pavement on the uphill of Morgan Territory Road (which is why you do *not* want to do it counter-clockwise).

4. Kings Mountain Road in Sonoma County. Multiple route options. The one I did was only ~45 miles, but there was a massive amount of climbing; very difficult loop. But it was also the most gorgeous loop I've ever done anywhere in the Bay Area. Sorry I don't have the details - I started near the cost somewhere and went counter-clockwise.

aka_kim

03-14-2009, 08:45 PM

Just to review: Sunday 3/15 meet at 9:30 am in Fairfax at the java hut across from Iron Springs Brewery. 50 - 60 miles plus a bakery finishing with beer.

Still on for this, or the 40 mile option?

maillotpois

03-14-2009, 08:51 PM

Still on for the 40 miles or whatever people want to do. I don't care as long as I get to go to the bakery.

Veronica

03-15-2009, 06:42 AM

Eating breakfast, bikes are ready to go...

I've already been out running this morning. A whooping two miles. :p

Are we coming back over Bolinas Rd.? It makes the route about 45 miles, but gets in a little more climbing for the crazy Death Ride groupies.

Veronica

jobob

03-15-2009, 06:56 AM

This crazy Death Ride groupie could use an easy ride today, thanks. :o

aka_kim

03-15-2009, 07:05 AM

You whoop when you run?

dachshund

03-15-2009, 07:07 AM

An easy ride would be just fine by me. Just sayin'.

Veronica

03-15-2009, 07:09 AM

I whoop when it's over. :p

Two early four spellin' write.

Veronica

maillotpois

03-15-2009, 07:22 AM

40 miles. 1 bakery. 2 hills.

jobob

03-15-2009, 07:27 AM

That would be lovely.

snapdragen

03-15-2009, 08:09 AM

Have fun ladies! (and gents...) I will be with you today in spirit, and maybe in the flesh later this year. :)

DrBadger

03-15-2009, 12:43 PM

hope you all had a wonderful time! I was thinking about you all when the last 15+ miles of my 40 mile ride (with no bakery and beer) were in the 50 degree rain!

Hope you took photos!
Ellen

Veronica

03-15-2009, 04:17 PM

No photos. The weather was a bit crummy - overcast all morning with a few hints of sun every now and then. The coffee and pastries at the bakery in Point Reyes were tasty. We did see a newt coming back on the trail through Samuel P Taylor Park. The skies opened up on us as we descended back into Fairfax. There is nothing quite like rain pelting you in the face on a descent. I was VERY glad I put on my rain coat for that descent. It was a lovely ride though. The company was good. Lunch after was nice, especially the chocolate cake.

Veronica

DrBadger

03-15-2009, 06:31 PM

sounds like rain was the order of the day! Glad you all had a good time....i sure do miss riding in the Bay Area and with you all! Maybe sometime I will bring my bike back on a trip....

jobob

03-15-2009, 06:38 PM

It was a really nice ride! And yes, the beer afterwards at the Iron Springs Brewery was excellent.

A great day with good friends. :)

maillotpois

03-16-2009, 06:49 AM

That was super fun! Nice riding with you all. And it was fun to actually stop and have something at the bakery. I was thinking about it and I don't think I have actually had a morning bun from there in years. :rolleyes: We usually just ride through. Nice to stop and enjoy things for a bit!