Cherry Canyon Park – Cherry Canyon Park loop from Descanso Gardens
Cherry Canyon Park – Cherry Canyon Park loop from Descanso Gardens
4.6
(2257)
7,746
riders
Cherry Canyon Park – Cherry Canyon Park loop from Descanso Gardens
02:03
18.7km
560m
Cycling
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Tips
Includes a very steep uphill segment
You may need to push your bike.
After 13.6 km for 217 m
Waypoints
Start point
Get Directions
3.68 km
Overlook on Cerro Negro
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
6.68 km
Cherry Canyon Park
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
8.61 km
View of Downtown Los Angeles in Distance
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
13.8 km
Cherry Canyon Park
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
15.0 km
View of the San Rafael Hills from Ultimate Destination Trail
Highlight • Viewpoint
18.1 km
San Rafael Hills Open Space
Nature Reserve
18.7 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
10.3 km
6.63 km
889 m
649 m
185 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
16.0 km
1.71 km
703 m
240 m
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Elevation
Highest point (550 m)
Lowest point (380 m)
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 27 June
24°C
15°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a challenging touring cycling adventure with big rewards, the Cherry Canyon Park – Cherry Canyon Park loop from Descanso Gardens is definitely worth your time. This difficult 11.6-mile (18.7 km) route packs in 1832 feet (558 metres) of elevation gain, taking roughly 2 hours and 2 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic option for experienced touring cyclists who appreciate varied terrain and expansive views, offering a significant workout and a true sense of escape from the city.
What to expect on Cherry Canyon Park – Cherry Canyon Park loop from Descanso Gardens
This route takes you on a journey through Cherry Canyon Park's diverse landscape, starting with steep switchbacks from Descanso Gardens that quickly gain elevation. You'll encounter a mix of wide dirt fire roads and narrower single-track paths. While the fire roads are generally well-graded, be prepared for some steep, chunky, or eroded sections. The single-track trails can be flowing but also technical and loose, especially on downhills. The real payoff comes with the panoramic views, particularly the 360-degree vistas from Cherry Canyon Motorway and the Cerro Negro fire tower, where you can see the Verdugo Mountains, San Gabriel Valley, and the majestic San Gabriel Mountains. Don't miss the "Ultimate Destination" lookout point for a glimpse of the distant Downtown Los Angeles skyline. The natural surroundings are a mix of chaparral and oak trees, providing quiet, protected valleys.
Planning your visit
Starting your ride from Descanso Gardens offers convenient access to this hidden gem. The interconnected trail network can sometimes be confusing, so it's a good idea to have your route handy. Many sections have limited shade, so bring plenty of water and sunblock, especially during warmer months. Be mindful of hikers, as some trails are shared. While the park is popular, arriving earlier in the day can help you find parking and enjoy the trails with fewer people.
Trail details
- Distance: 11.6 miles (18.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 1832 feet (558 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 2 minutes
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