This 11.3-mile bike path ascends 930 feet into the rolling hills of Fullerton, passing by parks, homes, a golf course, and commercial buildings. But between the hills and trees, much of the time you don’t see these things, but instead, enjoy the fun route used by many, yet hidden from the rest of the city.

The extent of my bicycling experience starts in grade school and ends in riding a mountain bike on the road for the shorter than two-mile distance to work. However, when my brother-in-law invited me to try a bit of off-road bicycling, I didn’t exactly jump at the chance, but I was eager to try something new.

I’ve driven around the streets of Fullerton and have made the occasional venture into a few of the neighborhoods, but never have I chanced upon the trails hiding in the hills, winding its way behind both residential and main roads.

We started our ride by Bastanchury and Warburton (though the official beginning actually starts behind the courthouse parking lot), riding the rocky trail lining the railroad tracks.  Seemed like a simple, laid back ride, and the uphills were not too bad at first. Then we got to our first downhill drop.

Now mind you, I’ve already stated that I am very much a beginner.  According to Geoladders.com, riders have rated the technical skill only at an average of 3.7/10. But that first taste of speed going downhill really got my heart pumping. Your tires fly through the dirt and bumps as you surrender all control to the laws of physics. Fortunately for us, physics tells us that once the bike is in motion, it wants to stay in motion — in a straight line, even. Keeping this in mind got me through the four or so drops on this trail, in the dark, and even when my feet slipped off the pedals.  All I had to do was not make any turns, and my bike seemed to hover over all the bumps, rocks, pieces of wood, and holes in my path, as I balanced my body precariously on my seat.

Is this a beginner’s ride? Others would say so. But as a first time off-road rider, it was definitely a challenge that I know some may not be willing to attempt. Aside from the steep downhills and high speeds through a bumpy, yet slippery trail, there are a few inclines that also kicked my butt. Twice I had to walk my bike up to the top of a hill because I could not get my tires to gain enough traction to pedal my way to the top.

Unfortunately, there are no breathtaking views on this trail, nor is there anything that shows off the natural beauty of Fullerton.  However, the bike route is both relaxing and fun!

If you have a mountain bike, but like me, you still feel inexperienced, then challenge yourself to ride this trail. I do suggest you find a friend or two who are experienced to give a few pointers while you ride. However, it does seem to be a trail that is used fairly often, if you should hurt yourself while alone on the trail, it probably would not take long before someone finds you.

For more information on navigating this trail, you may visit http://www.geoladders.com/gmap_display.php?route_id=190&walk_thru=1.  At this site, there is also information on many of the local routes in Orange County, along with mountain bike routes all across the nation.