The best MTB trails around South El Monte

The Schabarum Trail – Schabarum Trail loop from West Whittier offers a dynamic mountain biking experience through chaparral-covered hills and oak woodlands, providing amazing views, including vistas of Hacienda Heights. This difficult 23.2-mile (37.3 km) route, with its 3496 feet (1066 metres) of elevation gain, presents a varied terrain of dirt paths, doubletrack, and paved sections, challenging riders with 10-15% grades, ruts, and loose, sandy fields. Expect a ride that demands very good fitness and advanced skills, typically completed in about 3 hours and 47 minutes, making it a rewarding option for experienced mountain bikers.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trail's surfaces vary significantly, from easy doubletrack to sections with tighter and steeper switchbacks, particularly on descents towards Amar. The route is part of the broader Schabarum-Skyline Trail, a popular network for local mountain bikers. While specific parking information isn't detailed, ensure you carry enough water and are prepared for a challenging ride, especially given the varied terrain and elevation changes.

This loop is highly rated by the Komoot community and is known for its diverse scenery, including creeks that attract various bird species. It's a significant part of the Schabarum-Skyline Trail, a long connector that links several communities and provides access to areas like the Peter F. Schabarum Regional Park. Some older sections of the trail even feature unique elements like telephone poles at entrance gates, offering a glimpse into past trail design.

The Turnbull Debris Basin – Turnbull Canyon loop from Whittier offers a dynamic mountain biking adventure, blending diverse terrain with expansive views of Los Angeles County. You'll encounter everything from tree-covered singletrack to challenging fire road climbs, with the reward of 360-degree vistas from the peak of Turnbull Canyon. This moderate 17.8-mile (28.7 km) route features 2360 feet (719 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 2 hours and 39 minutes to complete, making it a solid workout for riders seeking variety.

Planning your ride requires a few considerations; the area is often closed for 48 hours after significant rain to protect the trails. Shade can be limited, especially at higher elevations during midday, so bring plenty of water. The trails are multi-use, shared with hikers, and rattlesnakes have been sighted, so stay alert. Starting from points like Beverly Blvd, which connects to Rose Hills Fire Rd, provides good access to this popular network.

Turnbull Canyon is a significant mountain biking destination in the Los Angeles area, known for its ability to combine various trails into unique riding experiences. Beyond the main loop, the complex offers a wide range of difficulties, from easy sections to technical descents with sweeping switchbacks. Keep an eye out for uncommon plant species like the Catalina mariposa lily, adding to the natural beauty of this diverse landscape.

The Turnbull Debris Basin – Whittier Hill loop offers a diverse mountain biking experience through rolling hills and chaparral-covered landscapes. You'll navigate a mix of singletrack and wider fire roads, with some sections featuring steep, rocky climbs and others offering fast descents. Keep an eye out for the distinctive graffiti-covered water tower and enjoy panoramic views, including vistas of Hacienda Heights, as you ride through oak woodlands.

This moderate 7.8-mile (12.5 km) route involves 986 feet (301 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 12 minutes to complete. Parking can be a challenge, particularly on weekends, as it's often limited to permitted spots in residential areas, so plan to arrive early. The trails can be dusty, so bring plenty of water, especially if you're riding during warmer periods.

This area is well-regarded for its interconnected trail network, allowing for varied riding experiences. It's a popular spot for both mountain biking and hiking, known for its green spaces and the unique mystique of Turnbull Canyon's urban legends. The route provides a good balance of uphill effort and exhilarating downhill sections, making it a solid choice for riders seeking a varied workout.