15 Jun
Mountain Biking in the Mt. Tam Area
Description: Some people see Mt. Tam as the place where mountain biking started. Here are a couple trails to try if you are into mountain biking.
Mt. Tamalpais (Mt. Tam) is a beautiful sight to behold. Its history dates back to the 1700s when the Miwok Indians lived and prospered here. Although two Europeans who came through the area in 1770 named the mountain La Sierra de Nuestro the name was changed to Tamalpais which is a Miwok name.
Trails were begun in 1849 in response to the Gold Rush because it was a great place for people who wanted some recreation. As the popularity grew a wagon road was built and a railroad which became known as “The Crookedest Railroad in the World.” This railroad didn’t last long because of a wildfire that came through and damaged the entire line in 1930; it was left at that point.
Because of the history, Mt Tam is considered by many to be just the right place to go when you want a mountain trail. There are many trails in and around this area that can be of interest. One of those trails, called the Tahoe Rim Trail is lined with alpines and is guaranteed to give you beautiful views of both Lake Tahoe and it is intriguing if you really want a workout. You will also have views of the Washoe Valley which makes the ride worth the effort. You do need to know that this trail can be ridden by bikers on only the even days of the month.
If you want a trail that isn’t so challenging you might want to try riding along Angel Island. The Angel Island Double Loop trail may be good because it is available to any level of bike rider. Of all the Islands in the San Francisco Bay area this is one of the largest and there is a wide assortment of recreation along the way. Angel Island is part of the State Park System so it is easily accessible from many different points. You have several ways to go on Angle Island depending on what you want to see. If you want to bike or hike along to see magnificent views, you will want to go through the Northridge/Sunset loop. If you would rather visit the beach or historical sites, then you will wan to go down Perimeter Road.
By: Larry Minikes
About the Author:
I have served on the TCC Board since 1993 and have served as previously as president in 2004-06. I have also served as Corresponding Secretary for several years representing our interests at many public meetings. I currently serve as the president of the Bay Area Trails Preservation Council where I have been board member since 1992. In 1999/2000 I founded the MMWD Watershed Citizens Advisory Committee which successfully developed our 50-year watershed protection plan. Our new website can be viewed at http://www.tamalpais.org