The best cycling routes in Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Preserve

There are over 100 touring cycling routes available in Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Preserve, catering to various skill levels. This includes 4 easy routes, 43 moderate routes, and 58 difficult routes, ensuring options for everyone from beginners to experienced cyclists.

The preserve offers diverse terrain, including rolling hills, sycamore-lined canyon bottoms, oak woodlands, and native grasslands. You'll find a mix of wide paths, fire roads, and some singletrack. While some trails are fast and smooth, others can be rutted and steep, providing varied cycling experiences.

Yes, there are several options suitable for families. The preserve features 4 easy routes, such as the Mary Weisbrock Loop Trail, which is an easy 3.4-mile path through rolling grasslands. These trails offer a gentle introduction to touring cycling in the area.

Primary access points with parking include the Victory Trailhead at the western end of Victory Boulevard in West Hills, and the Upper Las Virgenes Canyon Trailhead at the northern end of Las Virgenes Canyon Road in Calabasas.

You can enjoy numerous vistas of California landscapes, sycamore-lined canyons, and picturesque oak woodlands. During early March to April, the preserve is also known for its vibrant wildflowers, including California poppies and lupines. Notable trails like the Mary Weisbrock Loop Trail offer scenic views through open hillsides.

For those seeking longer rides, routes like the El Escorpión Park – Victory Trailhead loop from El Escorpion Park cover nearly 29 kilometers (18 miles) and offer a challenging experience with significant elevation changes. This route allows for extensive exploration of the preserve's diverse landscapes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the preserve's expansive network of trails, the peaceful and serene environment away from city noise, and the diverse landscapes that provide both exercise and immersion in nature.

The preserve is enjoyable year-round, but early March to April is particularly beautiful due to the abundance of wildflowers. The varied terrain means conditions can change seasonally, so it's always good to check local weather before heading out.

Yes, many routes in the preserve are designed as loops. Examples include the Victory Trailhead – Las Virgenes Creek loop, which navigates varied canyon and creek terrain, and the Las Virgenes Creek – Victory Trailhead loop, leading through canyon floors and surrounding hills.

The preserve is a critical ecological linkage and wildlife corridor, connecting the Santa Monica Mountains with ranges to the north. While cycling, you might spot various local wildlife, including birds and smaller mammals. It's also home to endangered species like the California red-legged frog, though these are less commonly seen.

The preserve generally allows dogs on trails, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check specific trail regulations and signage at trailheads for any updates or restrictions.

Yes, the preserve offers 58 difficult routes for experienced cyclists. For example, the El Escorpión Park – Victory Trailhead loop from El Escorpion Park is a challenging 28.7 km (17.8 mi) route with over 580 meters (1,900 feet) of elevation gain, providing a demanding ride through varied landscapes.