4.4
(7)
243
riders
9
rides
Mountain biking near Alhambra, California, offers access to diverse landscapes beyond the city's local parks. The region serves as a gateway to more extensive trail networks in the San Gabriel Mountains and Angeles National Forest. Terrain includes rolling hills, canyons, and forested areas, providing varied riding conditions. These areas feature shared trails for hikers and bikers, with options ranging from flat loops to routes with significant elevation changes.
Last updated: August 6, 2026
93
riders
30.2km
02:52
800m
800m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
4.8
(6)
86
riders
21.2km
01:49
480m
480m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

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7
riders
37.9km
02:39
590m
590m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
22.9km
01:42
420m
420m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
2
riders
37.5km
02:38
530m
530m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Cherry Canyon Park is an area of 130 acres in the San Rafael Hills, close to La CaΓ±ada Flintridge. It features multiple trails and fire roads for horses, mountain bikers and hikers, but also various single tracks that are only for hiking. From the trails, you will get a great overview over the area.
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The road south creates a nice, fast, gradual descent from the north side of Altadena. Just be safe and keep an eye out for cross-traffic at the intersections.
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Defenders Park is a small neighborhood park in the southwest corner of Orange Grove and Colorado Boulevard, along the California Mission Trail. There is plenty of open space surrounded by trees for shade, along with drinking fountains, perfect for a quick break during a run.
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Brookside Park is Pasadena's largest fully maintained park at 61.1 acres. It sits south of Rose Bowl Stadium with tons of parking off Arroyo Boulevard. The park features a lighted baseball diamond, two softball diamonds, and a large, lighted, multi-purpose field for soccer and flag football. There is also a speaker's platform with permanent seating, numerous picnic tables, barbecue pits, a play area, restrooms, and drinking fountains.
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Built in 1920, Devil's Gate Dam is the oldest dam constructed by the Los Angeles County Flood Control District, designed to protect Pasadena, South Pasadena, and Los Angeles from floods. The dam was named after a rock formation resembling a devilβs face and gained popularity in the 1940s when occultists performed rituals there. Today, Devil's Gate Dam attracts hikers, paranormal investigators, and TV crews checking out its haunted reputation.
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Ridge Motorway is a popular dirt road for biking and running. The path connects to a few other trails on its way to the top of Cerro Negro. It also offers some pretty great views of Glendale in the distance.
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Devil's Gate Dam is an abandoned dam, close to Hahamongna Watershed Park. From the bridge you get an amazing view of the valley and the surrounding area. Below the bridge there are a couple of tunnels that might be the reason why this place is considered a portal to hell, giving the dam its name.
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This overlook, very close to the tower on Cerro Negro, offers one of the best views in the area. Soak in the great vistas towards Glendale, Los Angeles and the Verdugo Mountains.
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There are 8 mountain bike trails documented around Alhambra on komoot, offering a range of experiences from moderate to difficult. These trails provide access to diverse landscapes in the San Gabriel Mountains and Angeles National Forest.
The terrain around Alhambra offers a mix of rolling hills, canyons, and forested areas. You'll find shared trails with options ranging from relatively flat loops, like the well-known Rose Bowl Loop Track, to routes with significant elevation changes, particularly in the Angeles National Forest.
Yes, there is 1 easy mountain bike trail available. For a more relaxed ride, the Rose Bowl Loop Track in Pasadena is a popular, flat 3-mile loop suitable for all skill levels. While not listed as an easy komoot tour, it's a great starting point for beginners.
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking longer distances and elevation, routes like Wella's Peak β Pasadena Historic City Hall loop from Memorial Park cover 22.3 miles with significant elevation gain. Another option is the Brookside Park β Cherry Canyon Park loop from Highland Park, which is 23.5 miles long.
Southern California generally offers good mountain biking conditions year-round, but spring and fall are often ideal due to milder temperatures. Summers can be hot, especially at lower elevations, so early morning rides are recommended. Winters are typically mild, though higher elevation trails in the Angeles National Forest may experience snow or colder conditions.
Yes, many of the trails around Alhambra are loops. Examples include the Henninger Flats loop from Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center, the Brookside Park β Cherry Canyon Park loop from Highland Park, and the Ridge Motorway β Defenders Park loop from Memorial Park.
While general access to the Angeles National Forest for recreational purposes typically does not require a permit, some specific areas or activities might. It's always best to check the official Angeles National Forest website for the most current information regarding permits or Adventure Passes, especially for parking at certain trailheads.
Beyond the trails, you can explore various attractions. The Historic Colorado Street Bridge is a notable landmark. For nature lovers, Bosque del Rio Hondo offers a natural forest setting, and several lakes like Silver Lake Reservoir and Debs Lake are also nearby.
Public transport options for reaching specific mountain bike trailheads in the greater Los Angeles area can be limited, especially for trails deep within the Angeles National Forest. However, some areas like the Rose Bowl Loop Track in Pasadena are more accessible via local bus routes, though bringing a bike on public transport may have restrictions. Driving and parking are generally the most convenient ways to access trailheads.
The mountain bike trails around Alhambra are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging climbs to scenic descents, and the rewarding vistas of the San Gabriel Mountains. The variety of routes caters to different skill levels, making it a popular destination for many.
While dedicated family-specific mountain bike trails are not explicitly listed, the Rose Bowl Loop Track in Pasadena is a flat, paved 3-mile loop that is very popular and suitable for families with children who are comfortable on bikes. For off-road experiences, look for trails designated as 'easy' or 'moderate' and consider their length and elevation before heading out with family.
Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many popular trailheads in areas like the Angeles National Forest or near the Rose Bowl in Pasadena offer designated parking lots. It's advisable to check specific trail information or local park websites for details on parking facilities and any potential fees or permits required, such as an Adventure Pass for certain National Forest areas.


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