Biking Nellie Creek -- good/bad idea?

[Bob Kocher]

I'm planning to call the FS office tomorrow to see if Nellie Creek Rd has reopened and if it's clear of debris. If the road is still closed to vehicles, is biking the road a good or bad idea?

We have an aggressive plan (at least for us) for the holiday weekend, so I'm wondering if biking the road could save us some energy or is the road too rough that it wouldn't be worth it. I'd rather not tack on an additional 2000' of gain and 8 miles of walking on day 1.

Thanks for your help.

[IntrepidXJ]

Just don't start another fire

http://lakecitysilverworld.com/SWN16/20 ... reek-fire/

[WVMountaineer]

I have similar thoughts. Please post what you find out!?

[huffy13]

I'm not going to say it can't be done, but having driven that road, I would think biking Nellie Creek to be awfully difficult. I'm not sure it would be worth it. It's a really rough, rocky road, there are a couple of significant creek crossings that can be swift and deep-ish.

[justiner]

YOU WANNA LIVE FOREVER DO IT!

[TallGrass]

I've biked it, but I did have a motor. I'd say go for it. Last time I hoofed it there were dry crossings for those on foot where I bet you could get your bike across if you have good balance.

[blazintoes]

My personal rule for choosing when biking is beneficial while peak bagging is if I can get 2000' vert and 3 miles one way, it's always worth it and gives me something to look forward to on the way back when I'm tired/complacent. Also, my other advice is don't be a hero up or down. If a section looks challenging, get off and push the bike. You'll spend less energy pushing and staying safe vs. trying to ride and clear the obstacle. One last thing, give the brakes some cooling time while flying downhill i.e., stop completely and wait a few minutes every couple of miles to let the braking system cool off if you have disc brakes.

[Bob Kocher]

Thanks everyone. I appreciate the responses and the tips.

[boudreaux]

Great idea, why didn't I think of this when I climbed Unc? When you ride it, try to go lite, strap some of the gear on the frame so you don't have it all on your back. While you're at it ride up to Wetterhorn too!

[Kevo]

For anyone wondering, I just called the Gunnison Ranger district and they confirmed the Nellie Creek road is closed for the weekend. They are hoping to get it open again next week.