The best cycling routes in South Hills Wilderness Area

The South Hills Wilderness Area offers a diverse network of over 40 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with options ranging from easy loops to more challenging paths featuring significant elevation changes.

You'll find a mix of terrain, from paved sections to multi-use trails, including doubletrack and gravel-friendly paths. The area is characterized by rolling hills, canyons, and paths winding through chaparral and oak woodlands. Some routes, like the Newman Point Overlook – Little Dalton Debris Basin loop from Glendora, offer varied terrain and significant elevation changes.

Yes, there are easy routes available. For a more relaxed ride, consider the San Gabriel River Greenway – Santa Fe Flood Control Basin loop from APU/Citrus College. This route is approximately 17.6 miles (28.3 km) long and features minimal elevation gain, making it a good option for those seeking a less strenuous experience.

Many routes in the South Hills Wilderness Area offer stunning views. From elevated points, you can enjoy 360-degree panoramas of the surrounding city and the San Gabriel Valley. The area's distinctive geology, formed by volcanic rock, adds to the scenic beauty. Routes like the Newman Point Overlook – Glendora Ridge Road loop from Glendora are known for extensive climbs and panoramic views.

Spring is particularly beautiful, as the area comes alive with wildflowers, enhancing the scenic beauty of the trails. While the area is accessible year-round, it's always advisable to check local weather conditions, especially during summer when temperatures can be high, or during rainy periods which might affect trail conditions.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the South Hills Wilderness Area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Glendora Mountain Loop, which takes you through mountainous terrain.

The routes in South Hills Wilderness Area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 25 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, the challenging climbs, and the rewarding panoramic views from the hilltops.

Convenient access points with parking are available. You can typically find parking at trailheads accessed via South Hills Park on Mauna Loa Ave or under the 210 Freeway on Bonnie Cove. Always check local signage for specific parking regulations.

While the wilderness area itself is natural, it is located within Glendora, California, in the San Gabriel Valley. This means you'll find various cafes, restaurants, and amenities in the nearby urban areas before or after your ride. For example, the Monrovia Historic Downtown – Duarte Bike Trail loop from APU/Citrus College passes closer to developed areas where such amenities are more readily available.

The South Hills Wilderness Area is situated within the urban fringe of Glendora. While specific direct public transport stops at every trailhead might be limited, local bus services in the Glendora and San Gabriel Valley area can provide access to general vicinities, from which you might need to cycle or walk a short distance to reach the trailheads. It's recommended to check Foothill Transit or other local transit authority websites for routes and schedules.

Generally, permits are not required for recreational cycling on the established multi-use trails within the South Hills Wilderness Area. However, it's always a good practice to check with local Glendora city or park authorities for any specific regulations or temporary closures before your visit.

The South Hills Wilderness Area features rolling hills, so elevation gains vary significantly across routes. Elevations range from 740 feet at the base to 1,212 feet at the highest peak. Some routes, particularly those rated 'difficult,' can involve substantial climbing, such as the Newman Point Overlook – Glendora Ridge Road loop from Glendora, which has over 6,800 feet (2,099 m) of ascent.