Quote Originally Posted by SadieKate
Other than the scenery, why Howell Mtn?

I'm mapping out this course but starting in Moskowite Corners (you went through there at the top of the Cardiac Hill past Lake Berryessa). Does Howell have less traffic, better shoulder, better pavement, high speeds, less tight corners? Any pros/cons other than the scenery? Deer Park is so fast it's hard to look at anything.

DeeDolce, I'm a flatlander also. I made it up even when I wasn't doing a lot of hill climbing. This route definitely has climbing in it but just take it slow and easy, don't push. You'll do fine. Ink Grade goes into the Redwoods so you can find some shade. Deer Park is a fast and furious downhill. Be careful or take Howell Mtn depending on maillotpois' response.

Deer Park is fast and furious and has a lot of traffic. And that nail biter hairpin bend that sneaks up on you.

Howell Mtn. is drive-off-the-road beautiful. The road condition is not as smooth, but not dangerously rough (nowhere near as bad as Ink Grade which I will only go up). It is not a FAST descent, because it is narrow and curvy and a bit rough - but that is GOOD because you want to go more slowly and see the scenery. You can see Lake Hennessy and if you want a lovely little addition, hang a left and do the short beautiful out and back to the lake when you are almost at the bottom of Howell Mtn. (Rollers and flat).