Editor's Note: Nick Victor completed this story as part of a Senior Project requirement for high school graduation. He enlisted the help of our own Karel Kramer as a mentor for his project and spent some time with Kramer interviewing and observing the Dirt Rider editor during a normal day "in the office". When he passed his finished story along to us, we demanded he let us post it on dirtrider.com. Nick obliged. We're always looking for local riding content from real riders. This is an excellent example of how to do it correctly. So, if you think you're up to the task and want to share your favorite riding area with the world, send me your stories at jesse.ziegler@sorc.com Now, enjoy a trip to Hollister Hills courtesy of Nick Victor.
Hollister, no I am not talking about the popular teen clothing store in the shopping mall, I am talking about the motorcycle park in Hollister, California. Hollister Hills SVRA is one of the most popular OHV parks in California. Located in San Benito County, Hollister Hills is about a one hour drive from San Jose. Its close proximity to big cities makes it an ideal location to hit the trails for the weekend.
The park is divided into the Upper Ranch and Lower Ranch. The 800-acre Upper Ranch is used mostly for 4-wheel drive vehicles and motorcycle special events. Many motocross and off-road races are held here in addition to one round of the WORCS series.
The 2,400 acre Lower Ranch is specifically for motorcycle use. The Lower Ranch has a total of five motorcycle tracks. Youngsters excitedly rip around the beginner oval track until they practically run out of gas. Riders looking for some airtime will certainly find it at the main MX track. There are numerous tabletops and doubles to challenge a rider, but the hard pack dirt is not fun to fall on. If a rider is not ready for the main MX track, then the Lodge MX track is an alternative. It has smaller jumps and more elevation changes. The fairly flat Vintage Track contains no jumps. This is a good place to practice cornering. For high speed action, riders can race around the TT Track.
With over 64 miles of trails, Hollister has something to offer for every rider. There is everything from wide open fire roads that wind up the mountain to tight single-track. Best of all, most of the trails are one way, eliminating the risk of a head on collision. Finding a trail for your riding ability is made easy by the trail difficulty rating system ranging from easy to most difficult. Harmony Gate is a 4-mile shaded trail that winds through a canopy of trees. There are also many hill climbs scattered throughout the park. Twin Hills is one of the more popular ones due to its location right off the main road. Many riders tackle the 100 yard climb and try to make it to the top; most are successful.
The Renz Property, the newest addition to Hollister Hills, opened in 2008. This riding area consists of moderately difficult single track and fire road trails. What makes this area unique is the location of the trails. Every trail is carefully mapped out to protect wildlife, reduce noise levels and prevent erosion. The views of the rolling green hills make it hard to keep your eyes on the trail.
Whether you are riding for the day or camping overnight, Hollister has awesome facilities. Day use parking in the Lower Ranch is available off most of the main roads and offers canopies and picnic tables. There are five campgrounds varying from shaded camping in the trees to open camping with a view of the majestic scenic hills. Bathrooms are conveniently located at each camping ground.
In case you have the urge to sing around the campfire and forgot the firewood, the general store, Faultline Motorsports, can solve your problem. Faultline Motorsports is also well equipped with new riding gear, tires, parts, maintenance service and food; everything to get you back on the trail.
The ranger station is located at the park entrance. The friendly rangers are there to answer any of your questions and help make your visit safe and enjoyable. Hollister is an excellent place to ride with your family or with your buddies. You won't regret your time spent riding in the rolling green hills.
For more information on Hollister Hills, check out the sites below:
California State Parks page (http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=404)
Hollister Hills Off Road Association (www.hollisterhills.com)