As you set off on your tour of Nevada County in the Heart of Gold Gravel race, you'll experience what our founder, Hardy, calls “a blend of tight, hamlet-style climbs and wide-open dirt roads.”
To help you take it all in, we’ve put together a quick guide to the many interesting sights along the way. This article covers the first leg of the race—shared by all course options.
Leg Overview: Scenic procession through historic streets and forested ridges
Start Location: Pioneer Park, Nevada City
The Heart of Gold bike race begins in the tranquil setting of Pioneer Park, where riders are immediately immersed in the natural beauty of Nevada County. Towering pine trees—some as grand as coastal sequoias—frame the sky in deep green against a brilliant blue backdrop. It’s a breathtaking start to an unforgettable ride.
Nevada City Procession: Through the Heart of History
As the race begins, cyclists glide through the charming streets of Nevada City, passing Victorian-era homes that have stood for over 150 years. Their ornate architecture and timeless elegance offer a glimpse into the region’s rich Gold Rush heritage. Soon, riders enter the vibrant downtown district, where the National Exchange Hotel and Exchange stands proudly on the left. This historic landmark has hosted notable guests like Ulysses S. Grant, Mark Twain, Jack London, and even modern celebrities such as Andy Samberg and Crispin Glover. Keep an eye out—you never know who might be watching the race from the balcony! At the top of the hill, the Nevada Theater comes into view. With performances dating back to the pre-Gold Rush era, this cultural gem continues to be a beacon of artistic expression in the Sierra foothills.
Malakoff Diggins: Into the Forest and Beyond
Leaving town, the race begins its ascent into the forest once more. The anticipation builds as the road turns, winding through dense woods and whispering pines. A short climb leads to a thrilling descent, where riders are rewarded with a stunning view of the Sierra Mountain range from the North Bloomfield Ridge.
This ridge is where, in the 1870s, the village of North Bloomfield sprang up to support the booming hydraulic mines in what would become the world’s richest mining district. But when hydraulic mining was outlawed in 1884, the town quickly faded into a ghost town. Today, it’s part of Malakoff Diggins State Park, where history and nature meet.
Just as the serenity of nature begins to settle in, the race mat appears—and the real competition begins. Hearts race, wheels spin, and the Heart of Gold bike race is officially underway.
There’s no better way to experience the Heart of Gold but by actually doing it. Click below to register for the upcoming race.