The best cycling routes in San Gabriel Mountains National Monument

The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 100 options available. These routes cater to different skill levels, including 18 easy, 41 moderate, and 42 difficult trails.

You can expect a diverse range of terrain, from relatively flat, paved paths along river greenways to challenging mountain climbs with significant elevation gains. The monument is characterized by rugged canyons and majestic mountain peaks, offering both smooth rides and strenuous ascents.

Yes, there are several easy touring cycling routes suitable for families. For example, the San Gabriel River Greenway – Santa Fe Flood Control Basin loop from APU/Citrus College is an easy 17.6-mile trail that leads through river greenways. Another easy option is the View of San Gabriel Mountains loop from River Wilderness Park, which is just under 10 miles.

Absolutely. The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument is known for its challenging climbs. The Mount Baldy Cycling Route is a prime example, featuring over 4,700 feet of elevation gain over 13 miles. Another difficult option is the Glendora Mountain Loop, which offers challenging ascents through scenic mountain roads.

Yes, the monument offers paved routes. The West Fork National Scenic Bikeway is a notable example, being a paved utility access road that largely restricts automobile use, providing a serene cycling experience. Routes like the San Francisquito Creek Trail & Santa Clara River Trail loop are also mostly paved, offering scenic river views.

The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument is rich in natural beauty and unique landmarks. You can cycle alongside the picturesque West Fork San Gabriel River, especially during the rainy season when tributary streams create beautiful waterfalls. Other notable features include the rugged canyons, majestic mountain peaks like Mount San Antonio ("Mt. Baldy"), and the historic Bridge to Nowhere. You might also encounter points of interest such as Cogswell Dam or the Glendora Ridge Road.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument are designed as loops. Examples include the Glendora Mountain Loop, the San Gabriel River Greenway – Santa Fe Flood Control Basin loop from APU/Citrus College, and the Newman Point Overlook – Little Dalton Debris Basin loop from Glendora. These loops allow you to experience diverse scenery without retracing your path.

The San Gabriel Mountains offer cycling opportunities year-round, but the best time often depends on the specific route and your preference. Spring and fall generally provide milder temperatures, ideal for longer rides. During the rainy season, typically winter, you might experience more waterfalls along routes like the West Fork National Scenic Bikeway. Summer can be hot, especially at lower elevations, while higher mountain routes may be more accessible as snow melts.

Yes, an Adventure Pass is often required for parking at many trailheads and recreation sites within the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. It's advisable to check the specific requirements for your chosen starting point before your trip. These passes can typically be purchased at ranger stations or local vendors.

The touring cycling routes in the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 40 reviews. More than 1,400 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the challenging climbs, scenic mountain roads, and beautiful river views.

Yes, several routes provide beautiful river views. The West Fork National Scenic Bikeway, for instance, parallels the picturesque lower West Fork San Gabriel River for over eight miles. Another option is the San Gabriel River Greenway – Bosque del Rio Hondo loop from Azusa Downtown, which takes you through river greenways.

Given the diverse terrain and potential elevation changes, it's recommended to bring plenty of water, snacks, sun protection (sunscreen, hat), and layers of clothing to adapt to changing temperatures. A repair kit, spare tube, and pump are also essential. For more challenging routes, a helmet and appropriate cycling gear are crucial. Always check weather conditions before heading out.