An old name for Clarks Grade was “Shelf Road”. You will discover why. In the early automobile days, teams of horses were strategically staged to help pull cars and trucks up the hill. The morning was for going uphill and the afternoon reserved for downhill. This road is STEEP! First, stop at the Clarks Ranch Yellow Post Campsite. If not in use, roam the area to discover apples and berries – best in Big Bear! Or stop at nearby Stetson Creek Ranch for heirloom apples before charging up the hill. Once on the switchbacks, do not stop! It is just steep enough in places that restarting might be difficult. We usually end this ride in downtown Big Bear City after making numerous stops to take in the stunning vistas. If ambitious and early, combine this ride with Burns Canyon and eat a late lunch at Pioneer Town.
Route Stats
| Length (miles) | 62 |
| Duration (hours) | 4.0 |
| Technical Difficulty / Terrain (1-10) | 7 – Steep Offroad |
| Elevation Change (feet) | 9,305 |
| Scenic / Historic (1-10) | 9 |
| Two-Up Friendly | No |
