San Gabriel Canyon loop

No, this route is consistently rated as a "Hard gravel ride" and demands a "very good fitness" level. It involves a substantial 1,220 meters (4,002 feet) of elevation gain over approximately 58.4 kilometers (36.3 miles), making it challenging for inexperienced riders.

The terrain is varied, primarily featuring paved surfaces but also incorporating sections of road, cycleway, street, path, and some singletrack. Parts of Glendora Mountain Road can have cracked surfaces, and you may encounter unpaved segments, contributing to its gravel designation.

On average, completing the entire loop takes about 4 hours and 37 minutes. However, this can vary significantly based on your fitness level, the number of stops you make, and the pace you maintain.

The loop offers picturesque views of the Morris and San Gabriel Reservoirs, rolling hills, and peaks. As you ascend, you'll experience the natural environment of chaparral and ancient oak trees. Notable points include the Little Dalton Debris Basin, Newman Point Overlook (with expansive views of Morris Reservoir and West Covina), and the San Gabriel Canyon Road Scenic View.

Parking is generally available near the starting points of the loop in Glendora. Specific trailheads are not detailed, but you can usually find parking along the main roads that form part of the loop, such as Glendora Mountain Road or near the base of the canyon.

Since portions of this route are within the Angeles National Forest, you may need an Adventure Pass for parking at certain trailheads or recreation sites. It's advisable to check the latest regulations from the U.S. Forest Service before your ride.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant riding conditions with milder temperatures. Summer can be very hot, especially in the exposed sections, while winter may bring cooler temperatures and occasional rain. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.

While many trails in the Angeles National Forest allow dogs, they must typically be kept on a leash. Given the challenging nature of this gravel biking route and the presence of roads, it might not be the most suitable trail for dogs, especially if you're riding at speed.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other paths, including the San Gabriel River Greenway, Upper Colby Trail, San Gabriel River Bike Path, Old San Gabriel Canyon Road, Glendora Ridge Motorway, and Silver Fish Truck Trail, among others.

Given the length and difficulty, you should bring plenty of water, nutrition, a repair kit (including spare tubes and a pump), appropriate layers of clothing for changing weather, sun protection, and a fully charged phone. A GPS device or the komoot app is also highly recommended for navigation.

Be prepared for significant climbing, especially on Glendora Mountain Road. Some segments are technically demanding (STS S3 - S6), and you might need to push your bike through certain portions. The cracked surfaces on some paved sections require attention. Starting early can help you avoid the heat and potential traffic on the roads.