A Technical 130-mile Mountain Loop To Kennedy Meadows And Back to Kernville, California

The Sierra Nevada Mountains are breathtaking, but riders pay more attention to the turns, than the nature, as the former come fast and plenty. If you go in the spring, pay closer attention to rocks and dirt scattered by winter storms.

Directions_ _

From Kernville, go north (left) on Sierra Way towards Fairview. This is a relatively relaxed part of the ride where you can expect excellent paved tarmac, few obstacles, and a couple of tight turns. The Sierra Way becomes Kern River Hwy after you pass Riverkern Town.

On Kern River Hwy, turn right onto Sherman Pass Road also known as Forest Route 22SO2.

At the base of Sherman Pass Road, you'll be at an altitude of 3,500 ft. As you ascend the mountain, altitudes reach 9,000 ft at the summit of Sherman's Peak (intersection of Fish Creek Road and Sherman Pass Road).

The Sherman Pass Road is narrow, winding through dozens of tight turns, as a result, the recommended speed is 15 mph.

On the way down, take Sherman Pass Road and turn right (south) onto Kennedy Meadows Road.

From Kennedy Meadows Road turn right onto Cane Brake Road and continue until you merge with Isabella Walker Pass Road.

From Isabella Walker Pass Road, make a right (north) onto Sierra Way to loop back to Kernville to wrap up your 130-mile mountain loop.

While in Kernville you can visit the Kern Valley Museum: it's free and consists of Native American art, pioneer photos, mining equipment, Graham Truck and lots more. Need to cool off? Take a guided water rafting tour. Need to eat? Check out Kern River Brewing Company or Johnny McNally's Lodge both are good places to grab a bite.

Want to stay the night? We're told Kennedy Meadows is a good place to camp.

Enjoy the ride!