Tyler’s Traverse is short and sweet, with a reasonable doubletrack climb and then a juicy singletrack descent that pack plenty of rocky challenges and adrenaline-filled thrills into just over 12 miles.
From the trailhead, hop onto Tyler’s Uphill Access Trail for a quarter-mile. At the intersection with a forest road, head to the right to start your doubletrack climb. The good news is that the climb (5 miles on doubletrack, the rest on singletrack) offers pretty views of the forested, alpine surroundings. The other good news is that your overall elevation gain is only 1,500 feet, making it accessible to a wide range of riders.
As you head up, you’ll go through several intersections, so be sure to stay on track—use your phone if needed.
The top of the hill offers rewards, but then doesn’t it always? Pick your pace as you roll along the top of a plateau, which features two rock-overs that crest atop outcroppings. Choose a bad line and you’ll have an unfortunate encounter with some black lava, so don’t push it too hard. Stay focused on your line, or let a more experienced buddy go first to show the way.
Once you’re past the lava rock, you can crank faster through tons of big berms and fast straightaways. It’s a one-way descending trail, so go ahead and ease up on the brakes and let the good times flow. You’ve got seven long, fun miles ahead before the trail cuts back hard to the left. At that point, you’re almost back at the trailhead—and probably ready to do it all over again. Thanks, Travis.
Riding Season
The upper part of the trail is typically covered in snow until late spring, but clear from early summer to late fall. Mid-summer’s not the best time because of the dust, so wear goggles.
