This may well be the finest big mountain ride in the region complete with brutal climbs, wickedly fast descents and breathtaking scenery.  The 20-mile ride (one way) is part of the now legendary High Uintas Classic Stage Race held each June and climbs the north slope of the Uinta Mountains via a State Scenic Byway. 

The best place to start the journey is at Bear River Resort, located 30 miles south of Evanston where Highway 150 intersects the North Slope Road.  Most riders choose an out and back format making Bear River Lodge a biker friendly destination complete with food, drink, etc.  Heading south on Highway 150, the initial miles provide a nice warming up.  However, once you pass over the Bear River, the road pitches up, the chain can rightfully be placed in the small ring, and the heavy breathing begins.  The road offers a wonderful surface throughout the ride with a small but adequate shoulder.  After the initial climb, the road loses elevation on the approach to Sulphur Campground.  This is where the real effort begins with a series of steep pitches to Butterfly Lake.  While the grade is daunting, the surrounding views of Hayden Peak are awe inspiring.  Once at Butterfly Lake, riders are treated to a quick, two-mile descent to Pass Lake where the road once again pitches upward toward Mirror Lake and Bald Mountain Pass.  With an elevation of 10,700 feet, Bald Mountain Pass is a true test of fitness and a great way to rationalize the purchase of a lighter bicycle.  The views from the trip are rivaled only by the thrill of the descent on the return journey.  Riders should be cautious on the descent as gravel and water sometimes cover the higher switchback turns, and vehicles can enter the roadway from any number of camping and fishing areas.  The toughest part of the return leg is the short climb back to Butterfly Lake.  Not to worry though, the 50-mph descent back to Sulphur Campground makes it all worthwhile and the final spin to the car is a great time to look for moose in the forest and along the Bear River.

To view a detailed map or to print (.pdf file that opens with Adobe Acrobat) click here You may also want to click the Untraveled Road logo  to view photos from the historic Depot Square starting point to the Bear River Lodge, one of our great race sponsors, and continuing to the Mirror Lake turnoff on Scenic By-Way 150. Please consider registering with Untraveld Road for this very cool service. Thanks!