I hate descening in big groups. There are always some idiots trying to keep up with more skilled riders. The wobble all over the road and are a danger to both themselves and others. The road has some bumpy sections that are hard to see if you're in a group. Also, if you're turning right on to Portola Road, the turn is very sharp so the people in the front of the group will need to brake and the people in the back of the group need to be careful not to face-plant themselves or rear-end anyone else.

I rode OLH a couple of weeks ago, after hearing about its "legendary" status and compared to anything I ever found in the UK it is the longest hill I have climbed. Not knowing quite what to expect, I didn't go at it full bore, but managed the climb from bridge to stop sign in 24 min 30 s. I hope to do better next time.

The return down 84 is pretty good, although I might try the Page Mill road route.

Cheers,

Ed

I doubt that West Alpine is steeper than Page Mill, either overall or over the steepest sections. Page Mill doesn't have a large average grade either, but there are some steep sections in the middle. Alpine might be a little longer because it has some long gradual sections. Alpine is hotter in the afternoon especially near the top.

Suunto Vector said 3700 ft round trip from Pescadero (the town) to Skyline via Alpine, computer said 36mi.

I love OLH. It makes me feel like I am in another world entirely...I personally prefer descending Page Mill (or OLH) as I seem to always have too much traffic on 84...the road noise is boggling to me. I think that you would like climbing Mt. Hamilton....it isn't very steep and if you do it in the am, it is nice and cool with usually light traffic. The pavement is sound and predictable with only a few rough spots. It is a very fun descent. The road that gets to me is redwood gulch. It isn't very long, but I need lower gears and better legs. It always makes me feel a weenie. I am glad that you are finding some fun roads...I want to cycle the UK myself...

i really like the descent down kings. it's really tight and technical. the only thing that i dont like about it is that the TWO times that ive been there ive had deer in my way.

I did OLH for the first time (newbie rider) a couple weeks ago in the heat wave. I wish I would of known there were other options besides going down OLH and back up Alpine to descend to Page Mill to get back to my car on Canada & 92. Uggh, worse part is I ran out of water about 10 ft up Alpine and hot damned was it hot! Good times. Went back up OLH today and down 84, it is a much easier way down than my previous route. Kings Mountain is calling me out for Thursday.