BISHOP - LOWER ROCK CREEK

RIDE OVERVIEW
Lower Rock Creek or Old Sherwin Grade (this was the highway before 395) is an amazing ride and a definite ride to do if you are new to the area or visiting. Generally moderate grade the whole way up with a handful or short kickers make this a great moderate climb.

You pass through the communities of Paradise and Swall Meadows before finishing the climb at the junction with 395. 

Excellent views of the Sierras the whole way up and the road is plowed all year so you can enjoy it even in the winter - careful in the winter with the second half, it can get icy in the more shady corners. 

The pavement on the climb itself is excellent and makes for a very enjoyable descent with lots of fun corners. 

LINK-UPS + NEARBY RIDES
This is a great ride to do on its own but can also be linked up with Gorge Road or Pine Creek if you are looking for a bigger day out. Alternately, you could venture further north up 395 and link up to Upper Rock Creek (epic day) or to the Crowley Dam (less epic but awesome). 

For a more relaxed version of this ride you can turn around at the Paradise Fire Station....this version is an ESV Winter Group Ride staple. 

RIDE STATS
Distance = 43.2 miles
Elevation Gain = 3,607 feet
Road Quality = very good
Bike Lane / Shoulder Size = not really
Amount of Traffic = minimal

RIDE ESSENTIALS
Start Location = Millpond Recreation Area
Turn-Around Point = top of Lower Rock Creek + 395
End Location = Millpond Recreation Area
Parking = plentiful
Bathrooms = at start and seasonally a port-o-pottie below Paradise and 395
Water = nothing at start, water at school and Paradise Fire Station