Overview:
Thursday's meet us at the bottom of Chaney Trail @ 7AM. We will climb Chaney Trail to either: 1)Lower San Merrill cut-off (very close to Sunset, which is still closed)

To the uninitiated, Chaney Trail is a brutal climb. Even strong climbers are forced to their granny gear within the first mile. It doesn't let up until the road turns to dirt at the Lower San Merrill cut-off about 60 minutes later.

Alternatively, the fire road to Brown Mountain - or parts of it might be opening up. Chaney Trail to Millard Canyon to Brown Mountain is a potential alternate route.

Mid-week in the morning we see a lot of hikers. We are courteous and give them the right-of-way every-time.

Since starting at the bottom of Chaney Trail does not afford any warmup before hitting the granny gear. You can park your car at my house and ride the 3/4 mile warm-up. We leave SCOA HQ at 6:40 sharp.

The Plan:
Ride up Chaney Trail to We will climb Chaney Trail to either: 1)Lower San Merrill cut-off (very close to Sunset, which is still closed) or at some point Brown Mountain.

We leave Chaney Trail and Loma Alta at 7:05 sharp or when the last person of the RSVPers shows which ever is earliest.

Difficulty:
The rides as they are defined are for Intermediate to Advanced riders. Even at slow speeds, if you ride something you wish you had walked, the consequences are likely to be painful. Still, strong beginners are welcome to ride with us to the trail heads (the uphill) but should return the way we came Chaney Trail.

Directions:
Mr. Google does a petty good job of getting you to Chaney Trail at Loma Alta. If you want to meet at SCOA HQ drop me a line [masked].

• Always wear a helmet when mountain biking. This is mandatory, no exceptions.
  
• Protective pads, gloves etc are recommended on more technical rides.
  
• Know your limitations, and do not attempt what you are not comfortable with. Hike-a-bike is no shame.
  
• Bring at least one spare tube, sunscreen, energy bars/food and enough water. Hydration packs are encouraged.
  
• If you have radios, toolkit, pump/co2, or first aid kit, bring them.
  
• Be familiar with and follow trail rules and etiquette.