The best road cycling routes in San Gabriel Mountains National Monument

The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument offers a wide range of road cycling experiences. You'll find everything from easy, relatively flat rides through river valleys to challenging mountain ascents with significant elevation gain. Out of over 110 routes, about a third are considered easy, half are moderate, and the remaining are difficult, catering to all skill levels.

Yes, the monument offers several family-friendly options. The San Gabriel River Greenway – Santa Fe Flood Control Basin loop from Glendora is an easy 22.5-mile route through river valleys. Additionally, the West Fork National Scenic Bikeway, while not explicitly listed in the routes, is a paved utility access road ideal for families, offering a relaxed ride alongside the West Fork San Gabriel River with restricted automobile use.

Road cycling routes in the monument offer diverse scenery, from rugged canyons and river valleys to majestic peaks. You can encounter significant natural monuments like Mount San Antonio ("Mt. Baldy"), Mount Baden-Powell, and Mount Islip. During the rainy season, the West Fork National Scenic Bikeway features beautiful waterfalls. The area also includes historical sites and the notable Mount Wilson Observatory.

For experienced road cyclists, the San Gabriel Mountains provide formidable challenges. Iconic climbs include Mount Baldy, known for its significant elevation gain, and Glendora Mountain Road, which is considered one of the most scenic. Routes like Mount Gleason Loop and Rubel Castle – Little Dalton Debris Basin loop from APU/Citrus College are classified as difficult, featuring substantial climbs through mountainous terrain.

The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument generally offers year-round cycling weather. However, occasional snowfall can occur at higher elevations during winter months. For the most comfortable conditions and to avoid potential snow on higher passes, spring through fall is often ideal. You can experience dramatic shifts in climate and scenery, even within a single ride, from high alpine to more desert-like conditions.

Yes, many road cycling routes in the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument are designed as loops. Examples include the challenging Mount Gleason Loop, the extensive Rubel Castle – Little Dalton Debris Basin loop from APU/Citrus College, and the easier San Gabriel River Greenway – Santa Fe Flood Control Basin loop from Glendora. These loops allow you to start and finish at the same point, offering varied scenery throughout your ride.

While specific parking areas for all routes are not detailed, the monument is easily accessible, located just 90 minutes from Los Angeles. Many routes start from towns like Glendora or Azusa, where public parking may be available. For routes accessing higher elevations, you might find designated parking areas such as the Vincent Gap - Mount Baden-Powell Trailhead.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 60 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied landscapes, from rugged canyons to majestic peaks, and the diverse terrain suitable for different cycling experiences. The opportunity to transition from high alpine environments to more arid conditions within a single ride is also frequently highlighted.

While the monument offers a respite from urban life, some routes pass through or near towns where you can find amenities. For instance, the Syndicate Coffee – Old Town Monrovia loop from APU/Citrus College suggests a route that includes a coffee stop. It's advisable to check specific route details for towns or facilities along your chosen path.

There are over 110 road cycling routes available in the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. These routes offer a wide variety of distances, elevation gains, and difficulty levels, ensuring options for every type of road cyclist.

Absolutely. The San Gabriel Mountains National Monument is known for its challenging climbs and significant elevation gains. Routes like the Rubel Castle – Little Dalton Debris Basin loop from APU/Citrus College feature over 2,700 meters of ascent, while the Upper Bear Creek Trailhead – Crystal Lake Recreation Area loop from Azusa Downtown includes over 2,000 meters of climbing, providing ample challenge for those seeking a workout.