Shirland Canal

The Shirland Canal, Pioneer Express and Cardiac Bypass Loop offers a dynamic touring bicycle experience, blending shady gravel paths along the Shirland Canal with more varied singletrack and fireroad sections of the Pioneer Express and Cardiac Bypass trails. You'll pedal through oak woodlands, enjoy views of the American River Canyon and Folsom Lake, and encounter both flat stretches and some engaging climbs and descents, making for a constantly changing backdrop.

This 5.0-mile (8.1 km) loop, with 408 feet (124 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy and typically takes around 47 minutes to complete. Access is convenient from Railhead Park, which offers parking. However, due to the mixed terrain, including some rocky sections and singletrack, and potential bike prohibitions on certain parts of the Pioneer Express Trail, a hybrid or mountain bike is often a more suitable choice than a traditional touring bike.

This route stands out for its clever combination of three distinct trails, offering a taste of the region's diverse natural beauty. It's a multi-use path, so you'll share the way with hikers and potentially horseback riders, especially on the Pioneer Express sections. The varied views, from the canal to the canyon and Folsom Lake, make it a rewarding short ride for those seeking a varied Cardiac Bypass Loop cycling route.

The Yankee Jims Bridge – Old Town Auburn loop from Auburn-Conheim offers a challenging touring cycling experience through California's historic Gold Rush country. You'll wind through dense green forests, catch glimpses of the North Fork of the American River, and pass by the iconic 1930 Yankee Jims Bridge, a true highlight. Expect varied terrain, from paved roads to narrow, bumpy dirt sections, especially on Yankee Jims Road, which demands strong bike handling skills.

This is a difficult 49.6 miles (79.9 km) ride with a substantial 5238 feet (1597 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 6 hours and 2 minutes. Due to the significant climbs and unpaved sections, it requires very good fitness and is best tackled by experienced cyclists. If you plan to ride in summer, start early to avoid extreme heat, and be prepared for some sections where you might need to dismount and push your bike.

Beyond the physical challenge, this route is a journey through history, immersing riders in an area rich with Gold Rush heritage and former mining operations. The landscape transitions from lush forests to more open,

Embark on a challenging touring cycling adventure with the Colfax Cemetery – Colfax loop from Auburn-Conheim, a route that plunges you into the scenic, hilly landscape of Placer County. You'll pedal through dense green forests, encounter significant elevation changes, and be rewarded with sweeping views of the North Fork American River and potentially Folsom Lake. The historic Colfax Cemetery provides a unique, reflective stop along the way, nestled under beautiful trees with expansive vistas.

This difficult 39.3-mile (63.2 km) loop, featuring 3185 feet (971 metres) of elevation gain, is best tackled by experienced cyclists with good fitness, taking approximately 4 hours and 11 minutes. The Robert F. Conheim Auburn Train Station offers a practical starting point. Given the demanding nature of the ride, ensure you carry plenty of water and plan for good weather, as the terrain requires sustained effort.

This region, known as the "Endurance Capital of the World," is steeped in gold rush history and offers a prime destination for those seeking a rigorous cycling experience. The route showcases the diverse beauty of the area, from its waterways to its historic sites, making it a notable option among the best touring cycling routes near Auburn for those ready for a substantial challenge.