From Tom Ritchey, a pioneer in the mountain bike industry and founder of Ritchey Design: When you turn right on Mission Road, you'll enter Fort Hunter Liggett, so be sure to bring a photo ID. Del Venturi Road is where your trip into central California's hinterlands really begins. After 17 miles and several stream crossings, the road turns to dirt and shortly thereafter a gate bars access to all but two-wheel transport.

START: Junction of Jolon Rd. and Hwy. 101.  Go right on Mission Rd. Left on Del Venturi Rd.; dirt begins after 17 miles; after 16 more miles, the surface reverts to pavement on Arroyo Seco Rd. Right to Elm Ave. Right to Central Ave. Right to Hwy. 101. END: Right to Jolon Rd.