Clear Lake, CA (March 25, 2025) – A collision involving a dirt bike and a mountain bike left at least one person with minor injuries Sunday afternoon on a rugged off-road trail in the Cow Mountain area near Mill Creek Rd and Mendo-Lake Rd, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The crash occurred around 3:07 p.m. on March 23 during activity on a 4x4 course situated in a remote section of Cow Mountain. Initial dispatch reports described the incident as a head-on collision between a dirt bike and a mountain bike, with emergency responders from Cal Fire and CHP notified shortly after. Due to limited cell service in the area, communication with responding units was delayed, complicating coordination efforts.
CHP units eventually confirmed the incident took place on the Lake County side of the trail system. One of the injured parties was later transported from the area to a nearby staging zone for evaluation. Medical personnel noted minor injuries, and no fatalities or serious trauma were reported.
Officials remained on the scene for an extended period, with CHP and local responders escorting involved parties back to the location to complete documentation and secure the area. The incident has been officially classified as a minor injury traffic collision.
We extend our best wishes to the individuals involved and hope for a smooth recovery for the injured rider.
Off-Road Bicycle and Dirt Bike Accidents in Rural California
Collisions between bicycles and off-highway vehicles—like the one reported in Cow Mountain near Clear Lake—highlight the safety risks that come with shared-use trails in California’s rural recreation areas. Cow Mountain, a popular site for off-roading, mountain biking, and dirt biking, presents unique challenges, including narrow paths, blind corners, steep grades, and minimal signage.
In this case, the crash between a dirt bike and mountain bike underscores how even recreational activities can turn dangerous without proper visibility, trail etiquette, or separation between vehicle types. Remote terrain like Mill Creek Rd often lacks cell reception, which can delay emergency response times and pose serious risks to injured individuals awaiting aid.
Although this incident resulted in only minor injuries, it draws attention to the importance of rider awareness and preparedness. Wearing proper safety gear, following trail use designations, and using radios or GPS tools with emergency signals are all essential steps for reducing risk in backcountry environments.
Authorities frequently urge users of mixed-use OHV areas like Cow Mountain to check local trail conditions, observe posted regulations, and be prepared for limited connectivity. Accidents in these areas, even when non-fatal, can become serious due to the challenges of remote access and long distances to medical care.
If you or someone you know has been involved in an off-road crash—whether on a mountain bike, dirt bike, or ATV—help is available to guide you through recovery.
Navigating the aftermath of an off-road collision can be complex, especially when it occurs in a remote area. At Local Accident Reports, we connect riders with critical support—from medical referrals to legal resources—so you can focus on getting better. Contact us today to take the next step with confidence and care.
