Mt. Vision

The Climb

The journey begins with a series of steep switchbacks, where gradients range between 10–15%, testing riders early on. As you ascend, the road meanders through a mix of cypress groves and coastal scrub, offering intermittent views of the Pacific Ocean. The pavement is smooth up to a gate located approximately 0.4 miles before the summit. Beyond the gate, which restricts vehicle access but allows cyclists to pass, the pavement remains decent, leading to the true summit near the Point Reyes Hill Trailhead. Here, riders are rewarded with panoramic vistas encompassing Drakes Estero, Limantour Beach, and, on clear days, distant landmarks such as the Farallon Islands.

The area experienced the Vision Fire in 1995, which burned over 12,000 acres, including parts of Mount Vision. The fire's impact is still evident in the landscape, with regrowth of bishop pines and ceanothus shrubs marking the region's resilience. The climb offers a unique opportunity to witness the natural recovery of this ecosystem.

Beyond the Summit

For those interested in extending their ride, the Inverness Ridge Trail continues from the summit. This trail, suitable for gravel bikes, traverses a mix of singletrack and fire roads, eventually connecting to Limantour Road. The area is rich in biodiversity, with the trail passing through habitats that support a variety of flora and fauna.

Tips for Riders

• Traffic: Minimal; however, the road is narrow and winding, so descend with caution.

For more detailed information and personal accounts of the Mount Vision climb, consider visiting the following resources:

• PJAMM Cycling
• Above Category: The Road to Nowhere
• Flaming Bike: Mt. Vision Quest
• Ride Chronicles: Mount Vision-Inverness Ridge

These sources provide comprehensive insights, route maps, and personal experiences to help you prepare for and enjoy your ride up Mount Vision.