San Francisco Bay Area: Calaveras Road (Milpitas, CA)

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It began as an animal trail along a creek, later used by Native Americans for hunting and navigating a beautiful, unforgiving landscape. Before European explorers arrived, the area around Milpitas was inhabited by the Tamyen Ohlone tribe. An Indian village once stood near the corner of Calaveras Road and Old Piedmont Road. Europeans encouraged the Ohlone to move on and claimed the land and village for future Catholic settlers. In the 1980s, the last remnants of the village were buried when the Calvary Assembly of God purchased the land to build a Church Complex. Although Christian charity has removed most traces of Indian heritage, the land remains pristine. A paved road, Calaveras, was built on the trail. Although I will defer to the Forum’s linguist and great adventure rider pdedse, I believe Calaveras is Spanish for skulls. The Spanish were surprised to find skulls lining the creek beds, a constant reminder that the Indians were not going to leave without a fight.

Calaveras Road is popular with cyclists and motorcyclists. These two tribes have learned from the past and show mutual respect and consideration for one another. When I ride Calaveras on a road bike or motorcycle, I find myself completely in the moment. As the road winds, it often narrows to a single lane. Most of the road has no shoulder, and even fewer fences. It winds, twists, climbs, and descends as it always has. During the week, cars occasionally use the road when Interstate 680 becomes congested. But during the weekend, the road belongs to those on two wheels. See a few pictures I recently captured and a highlight video my new camera created using its AI Director. If you find yourself in the East Bay on a motorcycle, Calaveras Road is 12 miles worth traversing. Have a great Memorial Day Weekend. David















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