Auburn is known for being the finish line for the Western States 100, a grueling 100 mile run from Squaw Valley to Auburn. It is a riparian river canyon terrain, with plenty of red dirt, rocks, and killer views of the North and Middle Forks of the American River. There are fire roads, single tracks, and even some hidden gems that only the locals know about.
One of the aspects about Auburn that I enjoy is the amount of trails in a relatively small area. While some sides of the canyon are not bike friendly, you never lack for climbs or descents. The riding is epic in the winter, as your tires will grip to the wet ground, and in the brutal summer heat you can guarantee the trails being blown out, dusty and loose. There is a decent variety of trails, from wide and rough fire roads to semi technical and rocky downhills. The hidden gems are far over my head, skill and comfort wise, but I do enjoy a good rip down Culvert and Confluence. There has been a huge increase in hikers, so do be careful when you carry speed downhill, as they seem to be slightly oblivious to the fact that they are hiking up a mountain biking downhill trail.
While there are free parking areas within the canyon, most of the parking is paid, so come prepared. If you can’t find parking in the canyon, which is a common occurrence on the weekends, we park at the top of Stagecoach trail. Make sure to not leave valuables in your car! Although at one point Auburn was small and safe, there has been an increase in break ins and theft.
Depending on the direction you’re heading after your ride, there are a couple places we like to eat. In Auburn we like to get burgers from Burgers and Cream, right off Elm and Hwy 49, and in the small town of Cool we like to get burritos from Los Establos.
2019 Ibis Ripmo with Fox 36 170mm and 63.9 HTA.
Hucking the Auburn Confluence gap and hitting over 5,000' accent on the secret trails.
My favorite conditions in Auburn.
Derek Teel from Dialed Health.
