What is the minimum age for the Big Sandy Ride & Hike?

Participants must be at least 10 years old to join this beginner-friendly ride and hike.

Are bikes and helmets provided?

Yes, Pedal Forward Bikes provides all bikes, helmets, and safety gear necessary for the tour.

How difficult is the ride and hike?

The trip is designed for beginners with a mostly easy bike route and a short, manageable hike to waterfalls.

Can I swim in the waterfalls?

Yes, there is a swimming hole at Tenaya waterfall where you can take a refreshing dip, especially in warmer months.

Yes, experienced local guides lead you through the route, sharing natural and historical insights along the way.

What should I bring on this trip?

Bring water, layered clothing, sunscreen, and optional swimwear if you want to take a dip.

Big Sandy Ride & Hike with Pedal Forward Bikes near Yosemite

Just a few miles from the South Entrance of Yosemite National Park lies the Big Sandy Guided Ride & Hike, a beginner-friendly journey led by Pedal Forward Bikes out of Oakhurst, California. This experience pairs a gentle bike ride through towering old-growth forests with an invigorating hike to hidden waterfalls, perfect for families and those new to mountain biking.

The route follows a largely mellow dirt road rising through lush pine and fir groves, offering riders an immersive connection to the Sierra Nevada ecosystem. Along the way, guides share insights into the area’s diverse flora and fauna, including black oaks and Douglas firs, as well as local history tied to the 19th-century water diversions still visible along the trail. This educational ride deepens your appreciation for this often-overlooked corner adjacent to Yosemite.

After the initial pedal, the group dismounts for a short hike to the secluded Tenaya waterfall. Here, the calm swimming hole offers a refreshing break, a rare find where you can cool off and take in the serene forest atmosphere. Depending on group pace, the adventure can extend toward Big Sandy Campground, revealing a secret waterfall tucked down a ravine, rewarding adventurous hikers with spectacular views before the final uphill push.

The return trip is an effortless downhill cruise that flows back to the starting point, closing the loop with a chance to relax and appreciate the sounds of birdsong and rustling leaves. Pedal Forward Bikes offers expert guides who ensure a safe, educational experience that’s tailored to beginner skill levels.

This outing combines accessible mountain biking with hiking and nature interpretation, standing out in an area dominated by more technical trails. It offers a gentle yet enriching outdoor adventure that opens a door to Yosemite’s surroundings for all ages, making it a standout option for families and newcomers eager to move at their own pace.

About Pedal Forward Bikes

Pedal Forward Bikes is a guided mountain biking and outdoor adventure provider based in Oakhurst, California, serving Yosemite National Park and the Bass Lake area. The company offers guided rides, family-friendly ebike tours, guided hikes, and flexible bike rentals ranging from one to seven days. Trips span skill levels from beginner family outings and easy guided hikes to advanced singletrack rides and technical mountain bike loops.

Experienced local guides lead each outing, tailoring routes to riders’ fitness and skill levels. Guided experiences include eBike rides to waterfalls, moderate and challenging Yosemite hikes (such as Taft Point and Sentinel Dome), and technical mountain bike rides on trails like Mary Jane, Willow Creek, Goat Mountain, and the 007 trail. Rental inventory includes regular bicycles, full-suspension mountain bikes, and electric bikes suitable for exploring Yosemite Valley and Bass Lake.

Safety and local trail knowledge are emphasized on every trip; guides provide route briefings, trail history, and environmental stewardship tips. Pedal Forward Bikes arranges family-friendly options and advanced guided rides, allowing guests to choose experiences that match ability and interest. Booking options include one- to seven-day rentals and a variety of guided trip lengths.

All descriptions and trip offerings reflect the company’s listed experiences near Yosemite and Bass Lake. For visitors seeking guided mountain biking, ebike exploration, waterfall hikes, or short to multi-day bike rentals near Oakhurst, Pedal Forward Bikes provides region-specific options tailored to diverse outdoor adventure preferences. Bookings and detailed itineraries are available through Pedal Forward Bikes' listed trip pages online directly.