Downie River & Rattlesnake Creek Trails
DESCRIPTION:
Most bikers pedal right out of town, but if you have an OHV you can drive much of the way. Mostly private property on lower end and many active placer claims along river; miners prefer privacy.
| Miles | Elevation Range | Options |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 3360’-5080’ |
|
DIRECTIONS:
To Downie River & Rattlesnake Creek Trails
Topographic Maps: Downieville, Mt. Fillmore. Travel east through Downieville on Upper Main Street for 0.5 mile and take Gold Bluff Road to left by the cemetery. Follow narrow paved road for 1.6 miles and take unmarked left branch at the "Y." OHVs can follow this dirt road for 3.4 miles, but 8.2 mileage assumes biking both OHV road and trail. Continue up Downie River, then climb steeper section up Rattlesnake where the trail becomes more difficult as it climbs rapidly.
ACTIVITIES:
Mountain Biking (Rating: Good)
Downie River 4WD Road & Rattlesnake Creek Trail: 8 miles, 3 double/5 single track, road easy. Downie River single track more difficult. Rattlesnake most difficult.
Here's one you can bike right out of downtown Downieville on paved roads. The further you go, the more the difficulty increases.
First paved roads lead you into Downie River canyon, then 4WD road with only a small amount of slow traffic, then gated road that’s all yours, then Rattlesnake Trail will test your stamina. Drop back anytime or brag you made it to the dead-end.
Respect the private property, mines, dredging equipment, and the miners will respect your right to share their hideaway.
Hiking - Dayhikes (Rating: Good)
Most hikers would be happy to leave this one for the mountain bikers unless you have an OHV that'll take you to the end of the 4WD road. From there the hike up Rattlesnake Creek is pleasant enough.
