Mount Thom Viewpoint – Tongva Peak loop from Glendale Community College

The Mount Thom Viewpoint – Tongva Peak loop from Glendale Community College is one of those gravel biking routes that truly tests your mettle: a difficult 10.0-mile (16.0 km) ride with a substantial 1841 feet (561 metres) of climbing, achievable in about 1 hour and 38 minutes if you push hard. This route is a fantastic choice for experienced riders looking for a rigorous workout and panoramic views, especially if you're training for endurance or heat conditioning.

What to expect on Mount Thom Viewpoint – Tongva Peak loop from Glendale Community College

Expect a challenging journey through the Verdugo Mountains, where the terrain shifts from rocky hills to loose dirt and sandy sections with ruts, making climbs out of the saddle particularly tough. As you ascend towards Mount Thom Viewpoint and Tongva Peak, you'll be rewarded with massive panoramic views of Los Angeles, Glendale, and Burbank, with the San Gabriel Mountains forming a dramatic backdrop. The landscape is dotted with unique desert flora, offering a true escape into nature. This is a strenuous ride best suited for very fit gravel bikers who are comfortable with significant, exposed climbing and technical descents.

Planning your visit

This route is known for its strenuous and exposed climbing, so be prepared for a lack of shade and no water available on the trail itself; carry plenty, especially on warm days. The trailhead often starts from Brand Park, which offers amenities like restrooms and water fountains before you begin your ride. Given the challenging nature and exposure, the best time to gravel bike Mount Thom Tongva Peak is during cooler parts of the day or year, avoiding the peak summer heat.

Trail details

• Distance: 10.0 miles (16.0 km)
• Elevation gain: 1841 feet (561 metres)
• Difficulty: difficult
• Estimated time: 1 hours and 38 minutes