Anybody ever gone up the old road from Banning to Idyllwild?

[zippetydude]

Instead of taking the 243 going up towards Idyllwild, the map shows an old road that used to be the main route. I think it's the road that continues straight ahead just as you get to the base of the mountain (where the 243 turns left and begins to climb.)

Has anybody here ever driven, biked, or hiked the road? I'm wondering how many miles it is and if it can be driven in a regular car (no 4WD) to cache water for biking or trips on foot.

Thanks for any help.

z