This is a technical point to point ride with several sections that are very steep. The technicality ranges from intermediate to double black. It is mostly rocky, but there are also rooty areas and organic areas. The trail initially heads south out of the backside of Zaisan Camp up the main Zaisan Trail (not Zaisan Chutes). You will climb (and push your bike) for 2.25 mi (3.5 km). The climb can be quite technical in places, and it is quite steep. At the 2.25 mi mark you will come out into a distinct meadow. This is a great place for a break. Once you are rested, leave the meadow out of the NW corner, following the small trail that is heading NW. Follow this trail about one mile up to the top of a distinct little mesa. From the camp to the top of this mesa, it is a 2000' climb in 3.25 mi. On the mesa follow the trails generally north just a short distance to the NNE corner. Here you will go off a rocky double black diamond drop (about a 50' drop). Careful here. Once you are off the mesa, it's about 3.5 mi of mostly DH ridge riding in deep forests and exposed ridges. You drop 2400' over the 3.5 mi, so it's pretty steep in places. There are some flowy areas, and there are some double black areas. And there is everything in between. Enjoy the variety and the beauty. Once you are near the end of the ridge, there are a few different ways off, down to Zaisan itself (not Zaisan Camp), all of differing technicality.
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