The best road cycling routes around San Gabriel

There are over 120 road cycling routes around San Gabriel, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored more than 3,800 of these routes.

The road cycling routes in San Gabriel are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from 133 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging mountain climbs to serene river trails, and the scenic beauty of the San Gabriel Mountains and surrounding natural areas.

Yes, the San Gabriel Mountains offer numerous challenging climbs. Iconic routes like Mount Baldy are known for significant elevation gains, reaching 4,748 feet over 13.1 miles with steep sections. Other demanding options include portions of Highway 39 to Dawson Saddle and Angeles Crest Highway (Highway 2) through the Angeles National Forest. For a difficult loop, consider the Brookside Park loop from South Pasadena.

Absolutely. The region offers several accessible options. The San Gabriel River Trail is a multi-use, mostly flat path stretching over 80 miles, perfect for a serene ride. The West Fork National Scenic Bikeway, gated to most automobile traffic, provides a relatively flat and paved route in the National Forest backcountry. For an easy loop, try The Cub House – Brookside Park loop from San Gabriel.

The San Gabriel area is rich in scenic beauty. You can encounter breathtaking panoramic views from places like Mount Wilson Observatory and Mount Baldy. Along routes, you might pass by Crystal Lake on Highway 39, or the Historic Colorado Street Bridge. Other notable spots include Echo Mountain and Inspiration Point, offering sweeping vistas of the landscape.

Yes, you can find routes that lead to natural attractions like waterfalls. The Eaton Canyon Waterfall is a popular natural feature in the area, and some cycling routes may offer access or views nearby.

The region is surrounded by extensive natural areas. The Angeles National Forest provides a stunning backdrop for many routes. You can also explore the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, which features a lake and trails, or the Whittier Narrows Recreation Area, one of Los Angeles County's largest regional parks with a comprehensive trail network. The San Gabriel River Park also offers trails and natural areas.

The San Gabriel Valley benefits from year-round cycling weather, making it a popular choice throughout the year. However, spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for longer rides, avoiding the peak heat of summer and potential cooler, wetter conditions in winter, especially at higher elevations in the mountains.

Many popular starting points for road cycling routes offer parking. Encanto Park in Duarte is a common starting point for those heading to the San Gabriel Canyon roads or the San Gabriel River Trail. Other recreational areas like Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area and Whittier Narrows Recreation Area also provide parking facilities for trail access.

Yes, many road cycling routes in San Gabriel are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include Brookside Park – Brookside Park loop from South Pasadena and View of Eagle Rock – La Tuna Canyon Road loop from Fillmore, which takes you through scenic canyons.

Yes, the San Gabriel River Trail is a multi-use, mostly flat Class I bike path that is ideal for road cycling. It stretches for over 80 miles, connecting the San Gabriel Valley to Long Beach and Seal Beach, offering a serene ride along the river. Encanto Park in Duarte is a popular access point.

For general road cycling on paved roads within the San Gabriel Mountains, specific cycling permits are typically not required. However, if you plan to park your vehicle in certain areas of the Angeles National Forest, an Adventure Pass may be necessary. It's always advisable to check with the Angeles National Forest service for the most current regulations regarding parking and access.