Lavezzola Creek Trail
DESCRIPTION:
This is backcountry you can get lost in, on purpose or not. Trail steadily climbs about halfway by using logging roads, but once above logged parcel on private land, singletrack trail follows historic stage route. Trail ends on the Sierra Crest above Spencer Lakes. Both Lower and Upper lakes planted to Brook Trout in 2000. From there no bikes on the PCT, but can return on OHV route via Hawley Lake to Packer Saddle or even loop down the Butcher Ranch Trail to Third Divide and Empire Ranch. Hawley Lake (stocked to rainbows and Kamloops Junction strain, most recently in 2000) sits to the southeast of Spencer Lakes near the headwaters of Gold Valley.
| Miles | Elevation Range | Options |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 3540’-6560’ |
|
DIRECTIONS:
To Lavezzola Creek Trail
Topographic Maps: Downieville, Mt. Fillmore, Gold Lakes. Continue north past First and Second Divides and park at gate to Empire Ranch (see above). Trail initially travels through ranch; please respect property rights and privacy.
ACTIVITIES:
Mountain Biking (Rating: Good)
Mostly single track. You can bike out of Downieville, or hope the shuttle bus to Empire Creek is operating. From Downieville, add 10 miles of county road to trailhead. The First Divide Trail offers a nice way to reduce the amount of road you have to ride to get to the Empire Ranch.
Pause to enjoy the scenery: pretty creek, pretty country. This is a great trail for experts and hearty souls especially if you tackle going up to Spencer Lakes.
