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Sly Park
The Sly Park loop is a beautiful ride around Sly Park reservoir. The ride starts with a fire road climb, followed by a very fast and fun descent, again on a fire road. The fire road is littered with water bars that make for exciting jumps - just watch out for small tree branches hanging where your head will likely pass when you're airborne. This descent ends with some tight, loose single track switch backs. At this point, you've reached the lake, and the trail stays along the shores of the lake for the rest of the loop. You'll need to pay attention through here - the trail criss-crosses with a horse-only trail. The trails are very clearly marked and easy to follow, so if you pay attention to the signs you'll be just fine. The trail will cross a very short bridge and enter Hazel Creek campground. Our loop stays to the left, however if you head to the right there is a waterfall and pool for a nice dip.
The trail now will be mostly single track, crossing through the campground and recreation areas for the rest of the way. This doesn't mean the ride gets boring - quite the opposite is true, as there is still technical single track and rock areas to play on (depending on the water levels) until you reach the road just before the parking area.
Trail Head: Take the Sly Park Rd. exit off of Highway 50 and head towards Sly Park reservoir. Turn left on Silver Lake Rd. and park in the day use parking area just across the dam.
Elevation Gain: 838 ft
Length: 9.7 miles.
Suggested Ride: Start by riding Fleming Meadows, then ride this loop. You'll end up with 18 miles and about 2000 ft of elevation gain!
