Fall Equinox Campout Sept. 18th-19th 2022
The Fall Equinox campout is part of our quarterly campout series that will coincide with the seasons, particularly the solstices and equinoxes. Each campout will be in a different location and somewhere along or close to the Stagecoach 400 route.
If you're new to bike packing or very experienced, we have options for almost everyone.
This year's Fall Equinox, we are staying at Paso Picacho in Cuyamaca Sites 006 and 007 Sunday night, Sept 18th. and riding back to our cars Monday, Sept 19th.
Campground amenities include:
Bathrooms
Coin showers
Potable Water
For more information about the State Park rules: Click Here
There is a store/restaurant at the lake which is a few miles from the campground.
Information on the Cuyamaca Store: Click Here
Getting to camp...
Our campouts are always "pick your own adventure" with multiple options that WE THE SHOP offer to get there, however you are always welcome to plan your own route to camp. (we had a group that decided to road bike there last campout and created their own route)
Driving:
You always have the option to drive to the campout, if you plan to do this, it is $10 per extra vehicle, per site so plan on bringing some cash. There will not be a planned ride from camp but plenty of trails to explore on your own around Cuyamaca meadow. We recommend getting the Trailforks app, it's a great trail resource and ranks trail difficulty pretty accurately. Chuck will be there early to setup camp and greet early arrivers.
From Mount Laguna BEGINNER:
Andrea will be leading this shorter route to camp. Departing from Sunset Trailhead on Sunrise HWY at noon. This beautiful route will take you from Laguna to Cuyamaca with pretty much staying at elevation. This route is a mix of rocky single track, paved road and fire road. An adventure pass is required for overnight parking in Laguna. This is a great option for those who want to challenge themselves but are still learning their abilities. This is a 100% self-supported ride, you must have your own tools, tubes, food, water, etc... Be sure you and your bike are up to the task. This is a no drop ride, however it is your responsibility to keep up with the group's pace.
See full 2-day route: Click Here
From Mount Laguna EXPERT:
As always, Mr. "ride all day" Martin will be leading this one. Departing from Sunset Trailhead on Sunrise HWY at noon. An adventure pass is required for overnight parking in Laguna. This is going to be a beast of a route, with some possible HOT temperatures, so THIS IS FOR EXPERIENCED RIDERS/BIKEPACKERS ONLY. There will be one bailout spot about 10 miles down HWY 79 from the campground. This route starts in Mount Laguna, drops you back down into Descanso with a long climb up Boulder Creek Fire Road. This is a 100% self-supported ride, you must have your own tools, tubes, food, water, etc... Be sure you and your bike are up to the task. This is a no drop ride, however it is your responsibility to keep up with the group's pace.
See full 2-day route: Click Here
Riding at Elevation:
If you have never ridden in Mount Laguna or any other area over 6000ft elevation or climbed over 7000ft in one ride, the EXPERT route is not for you. If you're planning on doing either ride (EXPERT or BEGINNER) make sure you know how your body handles the thinner air. Here are some practice routes you can go ride on your own to test your lungs and legs before the event.
Shakedown Elevation Test Route: Click Here
Beginner Climbing Test Route: Click Here
Shuttling Gear:
If there are some extra creature comforts you would like to have at camp but don't want to carry on your bike, you're welcome to drop off your personal items at the shop the week prior. Please no more than a small duffle per person.
Food and Beverage:
We will not be providing meals or drinks, but we are bringing some extra food, snacks, coolers and a stove that you're welcome to use. We can also shuttle your food and drinks, just give us a heads up so we can plan cooler space accordingly.
Dogs:
We know you love your pup and we've had dogs attend previous campouts. If you're planning to bring your dog you MUST follow the park rules. We frequent these parks and campgrounds a lot and it is important to be respectful and follow the rules so we are welcome back. Please be responsible and don't spoil it for everyone.
- Dogs must be on a leash at all times.
- Dogs are not allowed on trails.
- Dogs must not be left unattended.
If you are unable to follow these rules, your pup has to stay home. For a full list of dog rules in the state parks: Click Here
Highlights from the event...
