The best gravel rides in Fond Wilderness Preserve
66
riders
8
rides
Gravel biking in Fond Wilderness Preserve offers challenging routes through hilly terrain and open spaces. The area features significant elevation gains, characteristic of its crests and canyon roads. Riders can expect varied landscapes, including sections that traverse natural open space and connect to established trails.
Best gravel bike trails in Fond Wilderness Preserve
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Verdugo Crest Trail Trailhead – Verdugo Peak loop from Burbank Airport–North, a 23.8 mile (38.4 km) trail that takes…
Last updated: August 22, 2026
15
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
riders
39.7km
03:13
930m
930m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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8
riders
46.1km
03:35
1,170m
1,170m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
25.8km
01:59
520m
520m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A solid entry to the Verdugo Mountains with rewarding climbs and views, but watch the start—there are ruts and leftover metal pieces on the trail. Stay alert and pick your line carefully to avoid punctures or spills before the smoother sections begin.
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You can approach this 3,124-foot peak from several directions, but the multi-use Verdugo Motorway is the most common uphill option.
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This expansive 97-acre park encompasses rolling hills, grassy picnic spots, and designated camping areas. It serves as an excellent starting and ending point for numerous hikes in the Placerita Canyon State Park area.
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This trail presents a pleasant blend of paved and dirt pathways, gently ascending as you progress. The expansive vistas overlooking the San Fernando Valley are truly breathtaking.
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Immerse yourself in a vibrant display of wildflowers blooming across the landscape in the spring. Embark on the popular Oak Springs Trail for a scenic hike. Depending on the season, you might be rewarded with a breathtaking waterfall and refreshing pool. Explore the trail further on foot, leaving your bike at the trailhead.
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During spring migration, this spot transforms into a hotspot for birdwatchers, with thousands of birds (even 20,000!) soaring through a nearby mountain gap, offering a truly awe-inspiring spectacle. Keep an eye out for vibrant lupine flowers, adding splashes of color to the hillside.
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Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Angeles National Forest, with towering trees and lush greenery providing a tranquil escape. Spot diverse wildlife, from majestic birds to playful squirrels, as you journey through this natural wonderland.
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The Oak Springs Trailhead and Picnic Area has three picnic sites, vault toilets, and trash receptacles. There are also two hitching rails for horses, but there is no water for animals or people at this trailhead. The Oak Springs Trail is a popular trail that, depending on the season, takes you to a small waterfall and pool. This trail also has amazing wildflowers in the spring, but can have ticks so please be sure to wear long pants and check yourself after your hike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the overall difficulty level of gravel biking trails in Fond Wilderness Preserve?
Gravel biking in Fond Wilderness Preserve is characterized by challenging routes. All six of the documented trails are rated as difficult, featuring significant elevation gains and hilly terrain.
Are there any beginner-friendly gravel bike trails in Fond Wilderness Preserve?
Based on the available information, all gravel bike trails in Fond Wilderness Preserve are rated as difficult. Riders should be prepared for substantial climbs and challenging terrain, making them less suitable for beginners.
What are the typical distances and durations for gravel bike routes in Fond Wilderness Preserve?
The gravel bike routes in Fond Wilderness Preserve vary in length and time. For example, the Flat Discovery loop from Burbank Airport–South is about 16.0 miles (25.8 km) and takes around 2 hours. Longer routes, such as the Flat Discovery – Dillon Divide loop from Burbank Airport–South, stretch to 36.5 miles (58.7 km) and can take over 5 hours to complete.
Are the gravel bike trails in Fond Wilderness Preserve primarily loop routes?
Yes, many of the popular gravel biking options in Fond Wilderness Preserve are designed as loops. This allows riders to start and finish at the same point, such as the LA City Open Space loop from Hansen Dam Recreation Area or the MRCA Open Space – La Tuna Canyon Road loop from Downtown Burbank.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the gravel bike trails?
Riders can expect varied landscapes, including hilly terrain, open spaces, and sections that traverse natural open space. The routes often feature significant elevation gains, characteristic of crests and canyon roads.
Where can I typically find parking for gravel biking in Fond Wilderness Preserve?
While specific parking facilities are not detailed, routes often start from established locations like 'Burbank Airport–North', 'Hansen Dam Recreation Area', or 'Downtown Burbank', suggesting that parking is generally available at or near these starting points.
What makes the gravel biking in Fond Wilderness Preserve challenging?
The challenging nature of gravel biking in Fond Wilderness Preserve stems from its significant elevation gains, hilly terrain, and the mix of open spaces and canyon roads. Riders should be prepared for demanding ascents and descents.
Are there any specific viewpoints or scenic spots along the gravel routes?
While specific viewpoints are not listed, routes like the Verdugo Crest Trail Trailhead – Verdugo Peak loop from Burbank Airport–North are noted for offering panoramic views from the crest, indicating scenic opportunities along the higher elevations.
How many gravel bike routes are available in Fond Wilderness Preserve?
There are 6 documented gravel bike routes in Fond Wilderness Preserve, all of which are rated as difficult.
What do other gravel bikers say about their experience in Fond Wilderness Preserve?
Over 40 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Fond Wilderness Preserve. They often highlight the challenging nature of the routes, the significant climbs, and the varied terrain, including open spaces and crests.
Is Fond Wilderness Preserve suitable for family gravel biking?
Given that all documented routes in Fond Wilderness Preserve are rated as difficult and involve significant elevation gains, it is generally not considered suitable for family gravel biking with young children or inexperienced riders.
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