Henry Coe SP Bikepacking - PresDay

One night (2 day) trip to Henry Coe SP near Gilroy, CA.

Due to heavy rain this week, I'm abbreviating my original plans. We still might encounter muddy conditions and some swollen creeks.

Henry Coe SP is the second largest state park in California. The vast majority of the trails are all bike legal. These 2 factors make it particularly good for pedal adventures. February is on the early side for flowers but I expect to see some signs of spring on this trip.

This trip is entirely on dirt and I've routed on many single-track trails. Expect hike-a-bike sections on very steep paths. This trip is more suited towards a mountain bike. I've ridden the majority of these trails but I've routed a few new (to me) sections.

Draft route (subject to changes**):
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/49685162
**I have extensive knowledge of the trails in this park. If conditions are muddy, I will reroute onto fireroads. The park officially closes all singletrack to bikes for 48 hours following 0.5 inch precip.

While there are a few formal campsites in the park, I plan to dispersed camp (no tables, no toilet, no trash, no fires). Please practice leave no trace principles. Probably camp somewhere between mile 17-22 on the route.

Overall trip mileage is short but compensated by the elevation gain (averaging over 200 ft per mile). Low gearing is highly recommended. For reference, my bike has a low end of 18 gear inches.

Watch the forecast. Currently there remains a small precip chance for Sun/Mon. Valleys in Coe can be much colder than forecast but I hope to camp on a ridge. In November, I had my bottles freeze overnight!

Hunting Hollow entrance is unstaffed. Parking and camp permits fees are paid via metal box. Parking is $6 and camping is $5 per night. Bring $11 cash or check and self-register.

Lastly, this is not a beginner ride. Attendees should have experience riding loaded bikes on trails. Please be self-sufficient and prepared for remote, offroad travel. Have navigation, water purification, food, warmth, repair kit, etc.

As always, ask questions below or reach out via DM.

Online resources:
Write-up on bikepacking.com based on a previous trip from this group:
https://bikepacking.com/routes/henry-coe-trial-fire-overnighter/

Pine Ridge Association webpage (trail conditions, water report, etc):
https://coepark.net/

State Park homepage:
https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=561