Mr. Frog's Short Wild Ride: San Domingo Road

Bicycle some of the best of Calaveras in the rural California Foothills

Mr. Frog’s Wild Ride has three route options to challenge and enchant bicycle riders. The shortest, the San Domingo Road route is only 21 miles, but you’ll bicycle through some of the best of rural Calaveras County and the California foothills.

After a short ride from Feeney Park through the sweet neighborhoods of Murphys, you’ll bicycle out Sheep Ranch Road. Just downhill from Mercer Caverns, you’ll make a left turn to catch San Domingo Road.

San Domingo Road comprises gravel, dirt, and old funky paving, making this an exciting ride for adventurous cyclists on mountain bikes or road bikes, and even e-bikes. It's just rough enough to keep your attention, but smooth enough you should have no problems.

Historic vineyards on San Domingo Road in Calaveras County

The narrow, rarely traveled back road descends through gorgeous territory. You’ll cycle through the historic Stevenot Vineyards (now the Rorick Heritage Vineyards) tucked into San Domingo Valley, but soon the road becomes more wild.

Old farmhouse on San Domingo Road

You’ll pass under ancient oak forests and through untouched rangeland. Occasionally you’ll see the remnants of houses and barns, but mostly it will be just you, other cyclists, and a few wild turkeys or squirrels. Be aware that cell phone service is spotty along Calaveras County’s back country roads.

You'll bicycle through ancient oak forests along San Domingo Road.

Recharge with water and snacks at the rest stop on the corner of San Domingo Road and Dogtown Road before you start climbing out of the San Domingo Creek valley. The ascent is worth it as you crest the ridge and vistas open up to the west. Take some time to take in the view. It’s amazing.

View from top of ridge along Dogtown Road on Mr. Frog's Wild Ride in Calaveras County

Dogtown Road gradually becomes more civilized. You’ll pass ranches and farms, then residential neighborhoods on the outskirts of Angels Camp. A sharp left at Country Lane will take you under Highway 4, to the high school where you'll turn left onto Murphys Grade Road.
 
Murphys Grade Road is the back road return to Murphys. It’s wide, well paved, and used by locals, so be aware of cars and trucks on the road. You’ll be climbing nearly the whole way through range land and up a forested valley along Angels Creek. Watch for the historic wooden File Flume that carries water to Angels Camp.
 
You’ll finish your ride through Murphys historic downtown back to Feeney Park, where barbecue and music await.

Register for Mr. Frog's Wild Ride