Sullivan Canyon Overlook – Sullivan Fire Road loop from LA City Open Space
Sullivan Canyon Overlook – Sullivan Fire Road loop from LA City Open Space
2.6
(4)
52
riders
Sullivan Canyon Overlook – Sullivan Fire Road loop from LA City Open Space
02:47
25.7km
710m
Cycling
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted
After 12.8 km for 66 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
2.25 km
Mulholland Drive upper views
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
4.75 km
Sullivan Canyon Overlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
5.37 km
Sullivan Fire Road
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
12.7 km
Rustic Canyon Park
Nature Reserve
21.9 km
Dirt Mulholland
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
25.7 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
21.2 km
4.01 km
398 m
Surfaces
22.1 km
2.04 km
793 m
649 m
< 100 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (570 m)
Lowest point (160 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Sunday 12 July
31°C
17°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
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 challenging and varied touring bicycle route right outside the city, the Sullivan Canyon Overlook – Sullivan Fire Road loop from LA City Open Space is a fantastic option. This difficult 16.0-mile (25.7 km) ride packs in 2345 feet (715 metres) of climbing over approximately 2 hours and 47 minutes, making it a substantial workout for experienced cyclists. It's a popular choice for those seeking a quick escape into nature with rewarding views.
What to expect on Sullivan Canyon Overlook – Sullivan Fire Road loop from LA City Open Space
The route offers a journey through changing landscapes, starting with the peaceful, wooded Sullivan Canyon. Here, you'll find shaded dirt and gravel service roads winding past sycamore trees, oak, and fields of lemon grass, often alongside a seasonal stream. As you climb, the canyon opens up, leading to the ridgeline along Sullivan Fire Road. From this vantage point, you'll be treated to spectacular views of the Santa Monica Mountains, the Encino Hills, and even the Pacific Ocean on a clear day. The former Nike Missile launch site at the top provides a unique historical landmark and stunning 360-degree vistas. Expect a steady climb throughout, with some steeper sections and potentially loose rocks, especially if you venture onto any of the more challenging offshoots.
Planning your visit
This trail system is highly accessible within Los Angeles, offering a convenient way to get out and ride. You can enjoy the loop year-round thanks to Southern California's mild climate, though be prepared for potential creek crossings after heavy rains. While the main fire roads are generally wide and manageable, a touring bike with wider, more robust tires, or ideally a gravel bike or mountain bike, will be better suited for the mixed terrain. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like coyotes and rattlesnakes, especially during dawn or dusk.
- Distance: 16.0 miles (25.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 2345 feet (715 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 47 minutes
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free