Now here is a ride that is as good as gold! I will never forget the first time I rode Gold Point. After we finally reached the cliff-side meadows, I loved the feeling as we ate our lunch and looked down on the hawks flying over the tree tops in search of their meal. The forested panorama stretched on and on before us. I didnçt want to leave. We finished the ride on one of the best descents I have experienced. It makes the 8.5 mile climb very worthwhile.
Get to the trail by heading east from beautiful downtown Unity on Road 18 past Fall Creek Reservoir. Continue on Road 18 to Road 1825, about 1 mile past Bedrock Campground. Turn right onto Road 1825, then left at its fork with Road 1835. Park your car at the intersection of Roads 1835 and 220, within sight of the bridge over Logan Creek.
Now pedal south on Road 1835 and begin gaining elevation as you parallel Portland Creek. Stay on Road 1835, ignoring the numerous side roads. At about 5 miles Elephant Rock will tower above you on the right, while a turnout on your left will beckon you to take in the view as you rest and sip from your water bottle. As you continue climbing, remember a glorious, smooth single-track trail will return you to the car after this seemingly endless uphill.
When Road 1835 finally tops out, coast downhill for 0.75 miles before taking a left on spur Road 365, which deposits you smack dab on top of the upper Gold Point trailhead. A quarter of a mile later, the trail forks. Right (up) takes you to the top of Gold Point, a former lookout site. Trouble is, the lookout has been removed, and the trees have grown up and eliminated the view. Going left (down) at the fork takes you in the direction of your car, and better yet, the cliff-side meadows. Continue down the trail until you come to a right-hand switchback that is very steep: so steep that you must dismount and walk. Instead of continuing, abandon your bike for a minute and scamper off to the cliffs; they are just a few yards in the direction the switchback is leading away from. Did you bring some cheese and wine? Now youçre talking!
Eventually, the trail will summon you back to the saddle, and the good news is that the best is yet to come. I have not been on many trails that felt so much like they were designed specifically for mountain biking. Of course, the reality is, there are other nature lovers using this trail, so exercise good judgement and stay in control of speed. All too soon the trail ends on Road 220. Turning right here will bring you back to your car in 0.5 miles.
Dave Hallock
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