Conquering the Rubicon Trail
My Epic Adventure on Two Wheels
2 Trips 2 Different Ways
The Rubicon Trail, a legendary off-road route traversing the picturesque landscapes of Northern California, has always held a special allure for adventure seekers. With its rich history dating back to the mid-19th century, this trail offers not only a thrilling riding experience but also a chance to connect with the past. In the summer of 2020 and then again in June 2021, I seized the opportunity to ride the Rubicon Trail on my trusty 2018 KTM 250 XC. These two journeys left an indelible mark on my off-road riding experience.
The Rubicon Trail Basics
Before delving into the heart-pounding details of the ride, it’s essential to grasp the essence of the Rubicon Trail. Located in Northern California, this historic trail became an official wagon route in 1856 due to its relatively low pass and gradual incline compared to other routes of the time. By the late 1800s, it had evolved into a bona fide road, leading to the Rubicon Mineral Springs Resort and Hotel. The trail’s significance, however, faded when the hotel closed in the late 1920s.
In 1939, El Dorado County rebuilt the Rubicon Trail’s bridge across the Rubicon River, and in 1947, it replaced the log bridge with a steel one. Fast forward to the 1950s, and the Rubicon Trail found a new lease of life as a haven for four-wheel-drive enthusiasts. Today, it stands as one of the most renowned four-wheel-drive trails globally, even inspiring the Jeep Rubicon model.
The Ride
My journey along the Rubicon Trail started with my 2018 KTM 250 XC— my bike of choice for almost everything I do, however it was also my only choice as this was all during Covid and my 2020 300XC was up in Canada and couldn’t cross the border (dang border closures). The first time, in August 2020, I embarked on this adventure with a couple of friends, and the goal was to have fun, camp a night, and ride out. However, it didn’t follow the through-trip tradition of the Rubicon; instead, it was an opportunity to enjoy the trail’s beauty and camaraderie.
The second time around, in June 2021, marked a more ambitious endeavor. I joined five close friends for a full through-trip to Loon Lake and back. My preparations were minimal, with my fitness benefiting from frequent dirt biking outings. But I’d learned a crucial lesson from my 2020 trip—never underestimate the importance of water in the arid Rubicon terrain. Armed with two CamelBak packs, I left one at Rubicon Springs to ensure I had enough water for the journey.
These are from my trip in August 2020
Technical Challenges
The Rubicon Trail, to put it bluntly, is a relentless hard enduro experience. From start to finish, it bombards riders with unyielding boulder fields, demanding unceasing concentration and precision or a handfull of throttle and some guts. The trail seems endless, and you can’t afford to let your guard down for a moment. However, when you finally reach the granite field before Loon Lake, the ride takes on a different flavor. The challenges persist, but there’s a thrilling and exhilarating quality to it, as if the Rubicon has saved the best for last.
Remarkably, my KTM 250 XC required no special modifications to tackle the Rubicon’s challenges successfully. It’s a testament to the bike’s inherent capabilities in rough terrain. However, one essential piece of advice like i mentioned earlier and cant stress enough for anyone planning to conquer the Rubicon: carry an abundance of water or a reliable water purification system. The trail will leave you parched, and hydration is non-negotiable.
Scenic Highlights
The entire Rubicon Trail is a visual masterpiece. From the breathtaking beauty of Lake Tahoe on the drive up to the towering trees that form a natural canopy over parts of the trail, it’s a sensory overload of nature’s wonders. However, the Rubicon is not just about the views—it’s about the adventure. Along the way, you’ll encounter remarkable rock crawlers, adding to the thrill and excitement of the journey.
Camaraderie and Adventure
I had the privilege of sharing the Rubicon Trail with friends, and that camaraderie added immeasurable value to the experience. Riding through the challenging terrain, facing obstacles together, and reveling in the triumphs created unforgettable bonds. What struck me the most about the Rubicon community was the genuine happiness and enthusiasm everyone shared. It’s a trail that seems to bring out the best in people, fostering connections that extend beyond the adventure.
June 2021 Trip
Lessons Learned
While I can’t claim to have discovered life-altering lessons on the Rubicon Trail, it reaffirmed my passion for this type of riding. The technical challenges, the camaraderie, and the joy of conquering nature’s obstacles—these are the elements that fuel my love for dirt biking.
Conclusion
Summing up my experiences on the Rubicon Trail, it’s safe to say that it’s a journey everyone should undertake at least once. It’s a thrilling ride that tests your skills, rewards your determination, and immerses you in the beauty of the natural world. The Rubicon Trail is not just a ride; it’s an adventure—a chance to connect with history, forge lasting bonds, and create memories that will endure.
Resources and Next Steps
For those inspired to take on the Rubicon Trail themselves, here are some practical insights. At least during my visits, there were no permits needed, and you won’t require trail maps. The trail is well-defined, and if you park at the trailhead, you’ll have no trouble staying on the right path. Ensure you’re well-equipped with ample water – here I go stressing this, I know because when I did it in 2020 I happily enjoyed a dozen white claws the night of the camp out and then road big sluice with no water then had to turn around and ride out – Not fun with no water and 30°C (86°F) temperatures – staying hydrated is crucial in the arid conditions of the Rubicon.
As for my future plans, the allure of the Rubicon Trail remains, just writing this post makes me want to fly back home and re-do it.