Sierra Cascades, Section 5, maps 67-69: Banning to Idylwild, CA - July 2019

[JHamelman]

We have learned that SR 243 is effectively closed between Banning and Idylwild during road construction. At the same time, SR 74 between Mountain Center (just south of Idyllwild) and Hemet is also closed for repairs.

We are reaching out to Caltrans for more information about how they can accommodate cyclists during this process. For now, the only information we have is here:

https://dot.ca.gov/caltrans-near-me/district-8/district-8-current-projects/emergency-projects-sr-74-and-sr-243

Jennifer

[JHamelman]

After connecting with locals, we now have a suggested detour for this closure. It is 45 miles (26 miles shorter than the mapped route) between just north of Beaumont and Aguanga (intersection of SR 79 and SR 371) may be found at this Ride With GPS link: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/30652072. It uses SR 79 and county roads. SR 79 is a four lane highway with shoulders. The county roads are two lane and lower trafficked. Hemet is an All Services town. There are no other known services on this route.

Jennifer