The best cycling routes around Upland

There are over 35 touring cycling routes around Upland, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include 7 easy routes, 16 moderate routes, and 14 difficult routes, catering to various skill levels.

Upland's touring cycling routes offer a varied terrain. You'll find flat, paved rail-trails like the Pacific Electric Trail loop from Upland, as well as challenging mountain ascents into the San Gabriel Mountains, such as the Mount Baldy Cycling Route. The region also features rolling hills and canyons, providing diverse scenic views.

Yes, Upland offers several family-friendly options, particularly on the Pacific Electric Trail. This wide, largely straight paved rail-trail is suitable for leisurely rides and connects to other paths like the Cucamonga Creek Trail. Routes like the Bike loop from Montclair are also classified as easy, making them great for families.

While cycling in Upland, you can enjoy views of the majestic San Gabriel Mountains, including the prominent Cucamonga Peak. The historic downtown area of Upland features charming shops and eateries, and you can also find the Madonna of the Trail statue, a landmark along Route 66. Other highlights include the Marshall Canyon Trail and the Route 66 cycle path.

Yes, many routes around Upland are designed as loops. For instance, the Pacific Electric Trail loop from Upland offers a moderate 42.1 km circular path. Another option is the easy Bike loop from Montclair, which is 16.1 km long.

The touring cycling routes around Upland are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from the expansive views on the Pacific Electric Trail to the challenging ascents in the San Gabriel Mountains, and the overall scenic beauty of the region.

Many trails in the Upland area, including sections of the Pacific Electric Trail and trails within Chino Hills State Park, are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. However, specific rules can vary by park or trail segment, so it's always best to check local regulations for the particular route you plan to ride.

Absolutely. For advanced touring cyclists, the San Gabriel Mountains offer numerous challenging road cycling opportunities. The Mount Baldy Cycling Route is a difficult 20.9 km climb with significant elevation gain, renowned for its strenuous nature and breathtaking scenic vistas. Other challenging routes include the Pomona College Museum of Art – Marshall Canyon Trail loop from Claremont and the Marshall Canyon Trail – Potato Mountain Peak loop from Claremont.

Upland offers good cycling conditions for much of the year. Spring and fall generally provide the most pleasant temperatures for touring. Summer can be hot, especially in the valleys, so early morning rides are recommended. Winter offers cooler temperatures, and while the San Gabriel Mountains can be snow-capped, many lower elevation trails remain accessible.

Parking is available at various access points for popular trails. For the Pacific Electric Trail, you can find parking in Upland and neighboring communities. For routes accessing areas like Chino Hills State Park or Claremont Hills Wilderness Park, designated parking lots are typically available. It's advisable to check specific trailheads for parking information before your ride.

Yes, the Pacific Electric Inland Empire Trail itself is a significant asset for long-distance touring, extending through Upland and connecting to neighboring communities like Rancho Cucamonga, Fontana, and Rialto. This trail can be used as a foundation for longer touring routes, linking to other paths and allowing for extended rides across the region.

Public transport options exist within the Upland area, and some routes, particularly those in urban or suburban settings like the Pacific Electric Trail, may have access points near bus stops. However, direct public transport access to more remote mountain or park trails might be limited, requiring a combination of transport methods or a short ride to the trailhead.