23.8
PDI
16.2 mi
DISTANCE
4,502 ft
GAINED
5.1 %
AVG. GRADE
FULL CLIMB STATS
INTRO
An exceptional and must do climb! We try and save the superlatives for when they truly apply - and they apply to this climb! The climb is in the US Top 125 most difficult climbs, but offers much more than just a challenging ascent.
"The ascent begins by taking Old Siskiyou Highway up toward the Mount Ashland Ski Area. After 3.5 slowly increasing grade miles you will ride through a unique 270 degree turn to the left over moderate grade. A tree lined section soon follows as you continue up the hill past a few mountain homes. The route soon opens up and the grade increases a bit as you approach Interstate 5. At mile 6.7 cross under the interstate and turn left at the stop sign..." (This quote is presented with the approval of John Summerson, from his book, The Complete Guide to Climbing (by Bike), 2nd Edition, pg. 209.)
PLAN YOUR ROUTE
We've partnered with Sherpa-Map.com to bring you the best route planning tool. With a PRO Membership you can use this climb as a reference when creating your route. 5.1% average grade (5.8% for climb ony). 40% of the climb is at 0-5%, 40% is at 5-10%, and 11% is at 10-15%. The steepest quarter-mile is 11.4% and steepest mile 8.2%.
See more details and tools regarding this climb's grade via the “Profile Tool” button.
Roadway Two lane roadway in good condition with a two foot wide shoulder in many locations but which may contain debris such as sand and gravel from the winter.
Traffic: Minimal.
Parking: On the left side of Highway 66 just before the start of the climb - Map; Street View.
Provisions: There are no provisions on this ride.
Before heading out on any cycling adventure check out our Things to Bring on a Cycling Trip and use our interactive check list to ensure you don't forget anything.
While at first blush a bit of a trek to get to, it’s really not as “remote” as it seems on a U.S. map. The start of this climb is only 23 miles from Rogue Valley - Medford International Airport - see Map (however, beware of the bad reviews for this airport). We know Ashland to be a very popular town for many out-of-area visitors each year - if you are one of them (or fortunate enough to live in the area) and a cyclist, do not miss out on this exceptional climb. This is a climb that justifies a trip just to ride up Mt. Ashland, or certainly include it in your itinerary if you are in the area for other reasons.
ROUTE MAP
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NEARBY CLIMBS (0) RADIAL PROXIMITY
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MEMBER REVIEWS & COMMENTS
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MethowBiker
This is a really fun climb! And equally fun descent. Not technical. Do it during the week and you'll have about zero cars. None passed me going down. It's long, but nothing is over 9%, and most is 5-7%. The first part, up Old Siskyou Pass road is pleasant, mostly shaded. Then, after crossing under the freeway (I5), turning on the Mt. Ashland road, it becomes more open and lots of views. The crux are 4 of the last 4.5 miles, which are 7-8%, and you're over 5,000 feet at this point, so less oxygen. Great views of Mount Shasta too.
carlinguernsey
The challenge on this climb is more in the distance than the gradient. It's an enjoyable ride through the lower part with trees, and then the upper part feels more like you are properly in the mountains. A great journey overall! I just parked off the road by the lake near the bottom, but you can also park at the top (or ride from Ashland).
