Adventures and fun Sherman Pass
The thunder echoed around the mountains on a warm afternoon, the rumble could he heard echoing off the mountains that surround this area. Welcome to Kernville, where the granite peaks of the Sierra Nevada meet the Mojave Desert. This unique area is a spectacular region where big mountains full of pine and fir forests with Giant Sequoias are right next to spectacular rock formations and Joshua Trees. This region also has some of the best bicycling in the United States.
Sherman Pass is just of the amazing roads in the region, riding to the base of the climb is an incredibly scenic warm-up along the Kern River. After the 12–14 mile warm-up, the climb begins along the sides of the majestic Kern River, at about 3700 feet. Sherman Pass begins climbing steadily through beautiful desert scenery, with views of the Kern River and big mountains all around. The climb holds steady, and views of the mountains keep increasing as you ascend this massive beast. As you approach 6,000 feet the climb starts to feel more like an alpine climb. A big amount of climbing remains, luckily cool mountain breezes begin to make the climb feel a little easier. You know when you are getting closer to the top when high mountain forests hug each side of the road. Finally, at 9,200 feet you have reached the summit, where one of the best views by bike in California awaits you. Out in the distance the Kern Plateau sprawls out with glimpses of the western side of Mount Whitney in the distance.
The descent is long yet fun, take time to grab some photos on the way down. Make sure you grab some photos with the classic fire truck and giant ax on the way down. Once you make your way back to Kern River, enjoy the 12–14 mile scenic cool down back to Kernville. End your afternoon with a cold beer along the side of the refreshing Kern River under the trees once you are back in town.
Riding link: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/23625470
Sherman Pass is a remote road. Please be prepared to be self sufficient with water, food and tubes. There are numerous places to grab water along the Kern River before starting this climb.
