Ta Ta Fang - Mae Sariang

This is - by far - the most entertaining trips I have had in Mae Hong Son so far. The distance was not that big for a day trip ('only' 48 Kms) but the terrain can be tricky in some parts, potentially trechearous if done under heavy rain as you will not only have to criss cross a stream (Nam Mae Nge) over a dozen of times, the road IS the actual stream for a few stretches. Meaning that if the water down stream is flowing strongly (which is usually the case from July to Sept, or after a major storm) then this path could potentially develop from 'fun' to 'not fun' territory. We departed tiny Ta Ta Fang village around midday, after having spent the night before in Mae Sam Laeb village (tiny guesthouse - inn with 3 rooms), which is connected to Ta Ta Fang via a challenging but doable road (gravel, pebbles, rocks, a bit of sand) or via boat. The boat trip - up the Salween River, which acts as the border between Thailand and Myanmar - took around 30 minutes and the scenery was truly fantastic.
You will find no internet connection until around km 30, where the road is being 'upgraded', and no food or water supplies along the way. Thankfully, there is close to zero traffic too, which allows u to connect with nature and its surroundings in a way that is these days seldom found in Thailand. Other than two (shocked) motorcyclists and a car - which was using the actual stream as a road! - the only traffic we had to deal with was a couple or so of buffalo herds. On km 24 or so, a nice and nippy climb starts, so better be ready for it mentally and physically. There is a ranger station - part of the Salween National Park - roughly half way through, where you will find some toilets, shelter for the night if needed, some solar panels, and a bit of food & water perhaps if you ask nicely. :)
Cement / slash tarmac for the last 20 kms or so only, though as of 25th Jan, 2023, part of the road was being upgraded so this might change in the future, for better or for worse.

Two last points, do take note: i. The Salween National Park is rumored - though I am not sure if that is the case - to have a few species of wildlife (including large mammals), so you are better off not riding at night to avoid some surprises (wildlife is most active at night). ii. The other side of the border has been seeing some fighting between the Karen and the Burmese army for a long time now, and fighting - and its aftermath in the form of refugees - has happened recently. So, don't be surprised if without prior notice the Thai army or National Park authorities decide to close the area off, or restrict boat travel along the Salween River. This last point largely explains why this whole area, despite being shockingly beautiful and rife with potential for eco-tourism, sees close to zero tourists. All in all, do visit the area, but we informed, and be prepared.