Second Divide

Trail Overview

Second Divide is a fun, but extremely exposed, moto route near Downieville with several technical sections. This area is popular with mountain bikers, but this trail specifically may have fewer mountain bikers on the trail because it's not part of the main "Downieville Downhill" route from Packer Lake Saddle to Downieville, and because it's more technical. It gains over 2,000 feet from west to east. From the west end, it's a narrow trail cut into a shelf paralleling high above Pauley Creek. The views overlooking the creek are fantastic, and you go past scenic mossy rock walls, but you have to keep your eyes on the trail because it is extremely shelfy and not for the faint of heart. There are several embedded rock features within the narrow/exposed sections that make it more technical. They are mostly small ledges, but a couple of them are bigger and steeper, requiring some more skill and commitment despite the drop off to the side of the trail. The trail does allow two-way traffic, and there are some blind corners to be mindful of. There are also several switchbacks throughout the route that are generally wide and smooth and not the hardest part of the trail. The majority of the route is exposed and shelfy, but the east half of the trail mellows out slightly in terms of exposure, even though it still has some small rock and root ledges in the narrow path. The east end connects with Butcher Ranch Trail. This trail is closed 1/1 - 3/31.

Photos of Second Divide

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Difficulty

This is an upper intermediate/advanced trail due to significant exposure and moderate rock features within the exposed sections. The trail is extremely narrow and shelfy at times. This trail is not ideal for beginners or anyone scared of heights due to the exposure, and riders should take this seriously because there have been multiple fatal accidents on the Downieville Downhill route in recent years.

Technical Rating

Second Divide can be accessed by the following ride types:

• Dirt Bike