The Edge of Wilderness, the Klamath Mountains of California

View into the Russian Wilderness from Sawyers Bar Summit

Welcome to the small town of Etna, which lies in the Scotts Valley, a deep mountain valley located in the Klamath Mountains of California. This valley is rimmed by mountains on all sides, which provide for the biggest stretch of wilderness on the West Coast. This ride buttresses wilderness areas, making for a spectacular yet remote ride. There are regions of these mountains that are so remote, mountain peaks still remain unnamed. This region has been proposed as a world heritage site and a United Nations Biosphere Reserve. This area is so unusual, that is harbors one of four of the richest and most diverse temperate coniferous forests in the world. The deep forests, lakes, glacial cirques, deep river canyons and alpine scenery make this one of the premier outdoor recreation locations in North America.

South Fork of the Salmon River as it meanders near Cecilville.

This ride begins in the small town of Etna, located in Scotts Valley. Once leaving this charming town, meandering for the next twenty miles on Highway 3 to the almost ghost town of Cahallan, which lies on the edge of the Trinity Alps Wilderness. Here you will begin climbing up Cahallan-Cecilville Road, which climbs 3,000 feet to the summit at Carter Meadows. Enjoy the views of granite peaks before you drop almost 5,000 feet to the Forks of the Salmon. This canyon is spectacular, high rock walls form rims over the South Fork of the Salmon River. Unlike many rivers in California, the Salmon River is completely free flowing! Make sure you take some time to grab some pictures and enjoy the tranquility of the river. The scenery is remarkably different here, you will find ecosystems more closely related to central California with oak trees and drier pine forests.

South Fork of the Salmon River near Forks of the Salmon.

At Forks of the Salmon, you will follow Sawyers Bar Road along the North Fork of the Salmon River. Views of mountains and of the river greet you at every corner. Be prepared for some serious rollers for the first 20 miles. The last 7–8 miles climb 3000 feet on the edge of the Marble Mountain Wilderness. As you near the top views of granite peaks and the deep river canyons return. Luckily, you will have a quick but steep return back to the town of Etna.

As an outdoor enthusiast, it is essential that we fight for the wild places we cherish. The Klamath Mountains face issues with climate change, logging and mining. It is up to us to think of solutions and make a change for a sustainable earth and future. Please take the time to explore the links below to understand this amazing area.

North Fork of the Salmon River Canyon from Sawyers Bar Summit.

Great Links:

1. KS Wild: https://www.kswild.org/ksregion- This organization has great information about the biodiversity and the wild lands of the Klamath Mountains.
2. World Wildlife Federation: https://www.worldwildlife.org/ecoregions/na0516-Good description of the ecoregion of the Klamath Mountains.
3. Trinity Alps Wilderness: https://www.summitpost.org/trinity-alps/307625-Amazing place for backpacking
4. Marble Mountains: https://www.summitpost.org/marble-mountain-marble-rim/327255
5. Etna Brewing: http://etnabrew.com/?page_id=904- Place to grab a beer and a burger after the 100 mile ride.
6. Strava Link: https://www.strava.com/routes/2715350079778131836: This route is closer to 10,00 feet of climbing. Strava is off on the elevation.