Rubel Castle – Monrovia Historic Downtown loop from Upland
Rubel Castle – Monrovia Historic Downtown loop from Upland
3.2
(8)
44
riders
Rubel Castle – Monrovia Historic Downtown loop from Upland
03:53
88.5km
690m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 29, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
26.7 km
Rubel Castle
Highlight • Castle
Tip by
35.0 km
End of San Gabriel River Bike Path
Highlight • Cycleway
Tip by
47.8 km
Monrovia Historic Downtown
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
48.8 km
Monrovia Recreation Park
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
83.2 km
Upland Basin
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
88.5 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
42.7 km
36.3 km
5.99 km
3.13 km
191 m
179 m
Surfaces
80.8 km
7.17 km
171 m
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Elevation
Highest point (460 m)
Lowest point (170 m)
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Weather
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Today
Monday 13 July
33°C
21°C
23 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 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 road cycling route that blends unique architectural sights with charming historic streets, the Rubel Castle – Monrovia Historic Downtown loop from Upland is definitely worth your time. This moderate 55.0 miles (88.5 km) ride features 2258 feet (688 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 3 hours and 53 minutes, making it a solid day out for intermediate cyclists seeking a varied urban and suburban experience. It's a great option if you want to explore some distinct Southern California landmarks by bike and get a good workout.
What to expect on Rubel Castle – Monrovia Historic Downtown loop from Upland
This route offers a diverse ride, starting from Upland and heading eastward through suburban roads. You'll eventually reach Glendora, home to the truly unique Rubel Castle, a monumental piece of folk art built from recycled materials. While you can't cycle directly to the castle, its presence adds a quirky landmark to your journey. From there, the ride continues to Monrovia Historic Downtown, where you can cruise past preserved vintage brick buildings, boutique shops, and cafes, all set against the stunning backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains. The terrain is mostly flat to gently rolling, with some minor ascents, making it suitable for cyclists who enjoy a mix of urban exploration and scenic views without extreme climbs. Expect a steady effort over the distance, but nothing overly strenuous unless you venture into the steeper foothills.
Planning your visit
This loop is best enjoyed during pleasant weather, avoiding the peak heat of summer afternoons. While Rubel Castle itself requires booking a tour through the Glendora Historical Society for visits, you can still appreciate its exterior as you pass through the area. Monrovia Historic Downtown offers plenty of spots for a mid-ride break, with numerous cafes and restaurants. Always plan your specific route using detailed mapping tools to account for local road conditions and traffic, especially in suburban areas.
- Distance: 55.0 miles (88.5 km)
- Elevation gain: 2258 feet (688 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 53 minutes
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