The best MTB trails around Sierra Madre
4.7
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381
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14
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Mountain biking around Sierra Madre offers diverse terrain across its various ranges, from the foothill slopes and oak canopies of California to the rugged landscapes and deep canyons of Mexico, and the lush forests and high peaks of the Philippines. The region is characterized by varied ecosystems, including dense oak and pine forests, rocky mountainsides, and technical single tracks. Riders can expect significant elevation changes and a mix of challenging climbs and descents.
Best mountain bike trails around Sierra Madre
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Mt. Wilson Enduro Loop, a 34.9 miles (56.2 km) trail that takes 7 hours 10 minutes to complete, featuring challenging climbs and technical descents.
- Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is Upper and Lower Winter Creek Trail Loop, a moderate 5.4 miles (8.8 km) path through varied forest terrain.
- Local mountain bikers also love the Mount Wilson, Sturtevant, and Winter Creek Loop, a 12.8 miles (20.6 km) trail leading through mountainous landscapes, often completed in about 3 hours 8 minutes.
- Mountain biking around Sierra Madre is defined by foothill slopes, dense forests, and technical single tracks. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate paths to difficult enduro loops.
- The routes in Sierra Madre are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from around 20 reviews. More than 600 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Sierra Madre's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
11
riders
20.9km
01:58
290m
1,460m
Tackle the difficult 13.0-mile Eaton Saddle to El Prieto mountain biking shuttle, featuring technical singletrack and lush canyon scenery.
56.2km
07:11
2,170m
2,170m
The Mt. Wilson Enduro Loop is a demanding mountain biking route near Los Angeles, famous for its extensive downhill sections and technical challenges. You'll encounter a mix of flowy singletrack and rock-strewn descents, with narrow passages and insane switchbacks that require sharp skills. The trail winds through dense forests and past rocky outcrops, offering spectacular panoramic views that stretch for miles, making the effort worthwhile for experienced riders.
Planning your ride means considering the significant 7127 feet (2172 metres) of elevation gain over 34.9 miles (56.2 km); many opt for a shuttle to the top to focus on the thrilling descent. The route is rated difficult and takes around 7 hours and 10 minutes, so start early. Be aware that portions can be overgrown or washed out, and you'll be sharing the trail with hikers, so ride with care.
This trail is a favorite among advanced mountain bikers for its
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8.76km
01:07
420m
430m
The Upper and Lower Winter Creek Trail Loop offers a challenging mountain biking experience through the Angeles National Forest, featuring a mix of packed dirt, decomposed rock, and technical sections. You'll navigate a great singletrack climb on the Upper Winter Creek Trail and tricky rock sections with switchback descents on the Lower Winter Creek Trail, passing unique historic cabins along the way. This moderate 5.4-mile (8.8 km) route includes 1388 feet (423 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 6 minutes, making it ideal for experienced riders seeking varied terrain.
Planning your ride on the Upper and Lower Winter Creek Trail Loop requires a bit of foresight, especially regarding parking at Chantry Flats, which can fill up quickly on weekends and requires an Adventure Pass. The trail sees heavy foot traffic from hikers, particularly on weekends, so be mindful and practice good trail etiquette. While shaded sections offer respite, always carry plenty of water, especially during warmer periods.
One of the most notable aspects of this route is the presence of numerous historic vacation cabins, many from the 1920s, nestled along the trail and accessible only by foot or bike. The ride culminates with the notorious "Cardiac Hill," a steep, exposed paved fire road (2N40) climb back to Chantry Flats, which is a significant test of endurance and a defining feature of the Upper and Lower Winter Creek Trail Loop mountain biking difficulty.
1
riders
20.6km
03:07
1,300m
1,300m
The Mount Wilson, Sturtevant, and Winter Creek Loop offers a truly rugged mountain biking experience through the San Gabriel Mountains, winding past historic cabins and the impressive Sturtevant Falls. You'll encounter varied terrain, from packed dirt and decomposed rock on the Winter Creek Trail to steep, exposed sections and even some paved fire road. The route culminates with panoramic views from the Mount Wilson Summit Viewpoint, making the challenging ascent worthwhile for those seeking a rewarding ride.
Planning your visit requires a bit of foresight; the Chantry Flats trailhead is popular, so arrive early to secure parking, and remember an Adventure Pass is mandatory. Be prepared for a difficult 12.8-mile (20.6 km) ride with 4252 feet (1296 metres) of elevation gain, which typically takes around 3 hours and 7 minutes. Always check for current trail closures, as sections have been affected by rain damage and past fires, leading to repairs and altered conditions.
This loop is notable for its blend of natural beauty and historical significance, incorporating parts of the old Mount Wilson Toll Road. It's a shared-use trail, so mountain bikers must exercise proper etiquette and yield to hikers. The technical challenges, including potential hike-a-bike sections on the Black Diamond-rated Winter Creek segment, demand considerable preparedness and endurance, making it a prime choice for advanced mountain biking enthusiasts in the San Gabriel Mountains.
1
riders
10.2km
01:11
340m
340m
The Lower Clamshell Truck Trail offers a diverse mountain biking adventure through the Monrovia Hillside Wilderness Preserve, blending wide fire roads with engaging singletrack. You'll navigate through canyons and encounter numerous steep, tight switchbacks that demand good control, especially on descents. The highlight is undoubtedly the Sunset Overlook, providing expansive views that can stretch all the way to downtown Los Angeles on a clear day, making this a rewarding ride for those who enjoy varied terrain.
To make the most of your ride, plan to access the trail near Ridgeside Drive, keeping in mind that parking might require a short walk to the trailhead. It's strongly advised to ride the 6.4 miles (10.2 km) route counterclockwise, starting near Canyon Park, to avoid inadvertently straying onto private land. This moderate trail, with its 1114 feet (340 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes to complete, so an early start is often best.
This trail stands out in the region for its unique mix of terrain, offering both speed on fire roads and technical challenges on singletrack. It's a popular choice for mountain bikers in the Los Angeles County area, providing a solid workout and impressive vistas without being an all-day commitment. The dog-friendly nature of the trail also makes it a great option if you want to bring your leashed canine companion along for the ride.
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Tips from the Community
Short tunnel on the eastern slope below San Gabriel Peak, part of the old Mt Lowe Motorway, that was never paved. The tunnel is very short, so you don't have to worry about bringing light. The road continues to the trailhead half a mile uphill.
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Mostly smooth fire road through Monrovia Hillside Wilderness, but with some steep and technical sections that might challenge beginners. Ride counterclockwise from Canyon Park and follow the signsβmany side trails cross private land. The descent includes tight switchbacks and a short singletrack section. You can stick to the main road or take the βadvancedβ trail, Cactus Road, for more climbs, exposure, and a fun technical finish.
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Explore the looped road around the summit of Mount Wilson, a prominent peak known for its historic Mount Wilson Observatory. The summit houses telescopes, solar towers, and the modern CHARA Array for stellar research. Standing at 5,710 feet, Mount Wilson offers sweeping views of the Los Angeles Basin, the Pacific Ocean, and the Channel Islands on clear days. This site also serves as a major broadcast hub for the Greater Los Angeles area, easy to see with the numerous antennas and relay facilities sticking out all over the summit.
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Chantrey Flats is the natural end for those riding the Sturtevant Trail. If you shuttled to Mt. Wilson with a friend then this is likely the end of the line for you. Others might need to ride back down to Altadena if they took the shuttle offered by SCOAoutdoors.net. And still others might be climbing their way back up to the top via the myriad of roads and trails that depart from this picnic area.
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Sturtevant Trail is one of the most diverse bits of trail in the San Gabriel Mountains. On the way down you'll encounter technical loose switchbacks, flowy sections, rock gardens, decomposed granite, and plenty of roots. Beware that this is a multi-use trail and can be busy with hikers, especially on weekends. Early mornings are the best time to ride, but always watch your speed, particularly around blind corners.
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Mount Wilson is a 5,710-foot summit in San Gabriel Mountains. It's easy to distinguish from the other tall peaks around this area due to how many antennas is has near the top of the mountain. They don't interrupt your views once you're up here, though.
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Mount Wilson has a summit at 5,710 feet. It's easier to distance from a distance because of the large number of antennas near its summit. These are utilized for the relay broadcasting of radio and television in the Greater Los Angeles Area. It's a popular hiking spot, so it can get busy on weekends.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available in the Sierra Madre region?
The Sierra Madre region offers a diverse network of mountain bike trails. According to komoot data, there are currently 18 mountain bike tours available, catering to various skill levels and preferences.
What are the typical difficulty levels for mountain biking in Sierra Madre?
The Sierra Madre region provides a range of difficulty levels. You'll find trails from moderate to difficult, with 6 moderate routes and 11 difficult routes listed in our data. For example, Upper and Lower Winter Creek Trail Loop is a moderate option, while the Mt. Wilson Enduro Loop is considered difficult, featuring challenging climbs and technical descents.
Are there any family-friendly mountain bike trails in Sierra Madre?
While many trails in Sierra Madre are geared towards intermediate to advanced riders, there are options that might be suitable for families depending on their experience. For instance, the Lower Clamshell Truck Trail is a moderate 10.2 km route that could be a good starting point for families looking for a less strenuous ride.
What kind of natural features and landmarks can I expect to see along the mountain bike trails?
The Sierra Madre region is rich in natural beauty and interesting landmarks. Depending on your chosen route, you might encounter stunning waterfalls like Eaton Canyon Waterfall, Monrovia Canyon Falls, or Sturtevant Falls. You can also visit viewpoints such as Inspiration Point, or explore historical sites like the Mount Lowe Railway Ruins.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the Sierra Madre trails?
The mountain biking experience in Sierra Madre is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 20 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from foothill slopes and oak canopies to rugged landscapes and technical single tracks. The significant elevation changes and challenging climbs and descents are also frequently highlighted.
Are there any circular mountain bike routes in the Sierra Madre region?
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails in Sierra Madre are designed as loops, offering a complete riding experience without retracing your path. Examples include the Upper and Lower Winter Creek Trail Loop and the Ye Alpine Tavern ruins β Inspiration Point loop from Altadena.
What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Sierra Madre?
The Sierra Madre region offers varied climates across its different ranges. In California, the foothill slopes are generally pleasant for riding outside of the hottest summer months. In the Sierra Madre Occidental in Mexico, the rainy season transforms the landscape into striking green hues, which can be particularly appealing for exploration. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any easy mountain bike trails for beginners in Sierra Madre?
While many trails feature moderate to difficult sections, there is at least one easy mountain bike route recorded in our data. For those looking for a gentle introduction, it's advisable to seek out shorter, less technical paths or fire roads. The Lower Clamshell Truck Trail is a moderate option that could be suitable for those building confidence.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while mountain biking in Sierra Madre?
The Sierra Madre ranges are known for their rich biodiversity. In the Sierra Madre Occidental, the region is a vital sanctuary for many species, some endangered or endemic. In the Philippines, the Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park is exceptionally rich in genetic, species, and habitat diversity. While specific sightings vary, you might encounter diverse flora and fauna, especially in less developed areas.
Are there places to eat or get refreshments near the mountain bike trails?
Yes, depending on the specific trail location, you can find facilities nearby. For example, The Cub House is listed as a facility near some Sierra Madre trails, which could be a spot for refreshments or bike-related services. It's always a good idea to research local amenities for your chosen trailhead in advance.
How long do mountain bike trails typically take to complete in Sierra Madre?
Trail durations vary significantly based on distance, difficulty, and your riding pace. For example, the Upper and Lower Winter Creek Trail Loop (8.8 km) typically takes around 1 hour 6 minutes, while the challenging Mt. Wilson Enduro Loop (56.2 km) can take over 7 hours.
What are the typical elevation gains on Sierra Madre mountain bike trails?
Mountain bike trails in Sierra Madre often feature significant elevation changes. For instance, the Mt. Wilson Enduro Loop involves an ascent of over 2,100 meters. Even moderate trails like the Upper and Lower Winter Creek Trail Loop can have over 400 meters of elevation gain.
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