Asphalt, clean benches, landscaping, and lights make this Modesto’s “go to” trail. Lots of folks walk, run and bike here. Just like anywhere, carry a whistle in case you need help.

This trail was highlighted as a terrific way to view some spring mountain flowers while riding along the Merced River. In April 2019 my wife and I decided to give it a try. Unfortunately we got a late start so ended up riding mid-afternoon, a little too hot for the flowers although we did see a few patches.
We started at the Briceburg trailhead. The view along the river was spectacular even though the gravel road was quite a wash board so had to keep our speed down. There were several camp grounds along the river within the first five miles. Unfortunately there is a locked gate at five miles that has a bypass for walkers, but because of the way it was built, there was no way to get our bikes through so our 13 mile trip was cut short. We talked to a local who happened to be there who said the gate had been there for many years. So short of lifting our bikes over the gate, we decided someone just didn’t want us riding on so we turned around.
The day was not a complete loss, however, because you are about an hour from the Yosemite Valley. We headed on over, had lunch and rode through the valley. The water falls were spectacular from all the snow fall this year.

I’m making this my favorite local bike path. It’s quiet, clean for the most part, and it’s long enough to get a good ride in.

After reading about the Arroyo Mocho Trail, I headed out to reconnoiter my future commute route to work (Livermore) from San Ramon. The first 4-5 miles of this trail is hazardous for those with novice or beginner level riding skills. Those first few miles are mostly loose gravel with some gaping cracks in the paved sections. After that, the trail turns to a smoother, paved trail. Mountain, Gravel, Cyclocross or otherwise 'wide tires' are recommended for those with less experience riding in loose terrain.

We started at the Tuolumne city end of the trail and really enjoyed the walk. The bush lupine was in full bloom and smelled wonderful! Nice easy walk down the trail toward the river. A nice easy workout on the way back up the hill. Perfect for beginners. The only downside was that they were doing road repair below the trail and the smell of diesel fumes and truck noise kind of detracted from the experience. But after a mile we couldn't hear the trucks anymore.

Trip cut short, rattlesnakes, one coiled and leaped. Missed me. That was only 2.5 miles in. So be careful. I was glad my dogs were behind me. I was surprised, usually rattlesnakes don't get aggressive.

My wife and I made a day trip up to the MRT and thoroughly enjoyed it. There were numerous wildflowers blooming and the river was running fast from the recent rains we'd had. It's a great trail for beginners and that's exactly what we wanted.

BE CAREFUL on the part of the trail that connects Antioch to Oakley. There are guys riding motorbikes on the trail sometime. They usually stick to the hills but will come down to the trail. There are some incredibly blind turns and these guys are driving really fast. They WILL hurt someone or themselves one day.

I don't really enjoy this trail. I only use it for my convenience. In fact, I use this trail to get to the Marsh Creek Trail, which is awesome!

this a great trail for family and friends to spend the day at.