The best traffic-free bike rides around Pasadena

Pasadena offers a good selection of challenging, traffic-free gravel bike trails, with 13 routes detailed in this guide. These routes primarily explore the rugged terrain of the San Gabriel Mountains and Angeles National Forest, providing extensive opportunities for gravel biking away from cars.

The no-traffic gravel bike trails around Pasadena are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Riders frequently praise the challenging climbs, panoramic mountain vistas, and the sense of escape offered by the extensive fire roads and dirt trails in the San Gabriel Mountains.

Yes, Pasadena is known for its demanding gravel routes. For example, the Pasadena Historic City Hall – View from Mount Lukens loop from Memorial Park is a difficult 53.6 km route with significant elevation gain, offering constant climbs and rewarding views from Mount Lukens, the highest point within Los Angeles city limits. Another challenging option is the Mueller Tunnel – Mueller Tunnel loop from Allen, a 46.7 km trail through mountain terrain.

Many no-traffic gravel trails in Pasadena lead to stunning natural features. You might encounter viewpoints like Seven Trees Overlook or reach summits such as Strawberry Peak. Some routes also pass by beautiful water features, including the Eaton Canyon Waterfall.

Yes, the region has historical points of interest. For instance, some trails in the San Gabriel Mountains, like those around Mount Lowe, can lead you past the Mount Lowe Railway Ruins, offering a glimpse into the area's past while enjoying your ride.

Pasadena's mild climate allows for year-round gravel biking. To best avoid traffic, focus on the extensive fire roads and dirt trails within the San Gabriel Mountains and Angeles National Forest, which are inherently low-traffic. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends, especially on popular routes.

Yes, many of the gravel bike trails in Pasadena are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without encountering significant traffic. The Devil's Gate Dam – Brookside Park loop from Allen is a 36.4 km route that offers a circular experience through varied terrain.

While many trails in the Angeles National Forest and other natural areas around Pasadena are dog-friendly for hikers, rules for dogs on bike trails can vary. It's always best to check specific regulations for each trail or park you plan to visit, especially within the Angeles National Forest, to ensure dogs are permitted on bike paths and to understand leash requirements.

Trailheads for routes leading into the San Gabriel Mountains and Angeles National Forest often have designated parking areas. For routes starting closer to Pasadena, such as those near the Arroyo Seco or Hahamongna Watershed Park, you can usually find street parking or specific park lots. Always check local signage for parking restrictions and fees, especially if an Adventure Pass is required for parking in certain National Forest areas.

While many routes in this guide are rated difficult, the Pasadena area does offer options for those new to gravel biking. The Gabrielino Trail, particularly the section next to JPL that leads to the Brown Mountain Dam waterfall, is often recommended as a less steep option. It provides a good introduction to gravel riding on a relatively gentle path away from vehicle traffic.

Beyond the challenging mountain trails, the Arroyo Seco offers a unique multi-terrain ecosystem with both paved and unpaved segments, ideal for diverse gravel cycling experiences. Hahamongna Watershed Park, located in the foothills north of Pasadena, also features wetlands and open spaces with bicycle trails, perfect for a more relaxed, traffic-free ride and excellent for birdwatching.