The best traffic-free bike rides in Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Preserve
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Gravel biking in Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Preserve offers extensive no traffic gravel bike trails through a diverse landscape. The preserve features rolling hills, sycamore-lined canyons, and expansive oak woodlands, providing varied terrain for cyclists. These trails traverse chaparral shrub forests and grasslands, connecting the Santa Monica Mountains with ranges to the north. Panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains are accessible from various elevated points.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails in Upper Las Virgenes Open Space…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
6
riders
23.3km
01:44
430m
430m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
22
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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15
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
5
riders
20.4km
01:45
410m
410m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Preserve
Tips from the Community
Pedalers Fork is a unique combination of a restaurant, bar, coffee shop, and boutique bike shop in the heart of Calabasas. It offers delicious farm-to-table dining and artisan coffee with a casual vibe and a great patio, making it a fantastic place to relax after a ride.
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San Vicente Mountain Park, located 2.7 miles west of the 405 freeway on an unpaved section of Mulholland Drive, has awesome 360-degree views and access to extensive hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails. The 10.2-acre park has public picnic areas, bathrooms, and is a gateway to Westridge Canyonback Park and the 20,000-acre “Big Wild” wilderness area. A short walk along a wide dirt road leads visitors to this historic site, which once housed a Nike-Ajax missile radar station during the Cold War (1956–1968). The original radar tower now provides panoramic views of the Santa Monica Mountains, Encino Reservoir, San Fernando Valley, and Los Angeles Basin, making it one of the best spots in the region to watch a sunset.
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This is a handy connector trail, used mostly to go downhill from The Hub to the Bent Arrow Trail, or you can keep going all the way to Mulholland Drive with a climb at the very end.
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Your climb up to the ridgeline will be rewarded with an excellent view of the surrounding area.
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West Mandeville Fire Road is a 3.7-mile trail located on the eastern edge of Topanga State Park. This popular, steep trail climbs from Santa Monica to Mulholland Drive and San Vicente Mountain Park, offering sweeping views of the city, mountains, and adjcent canyons. The wide fire road is ideal for biking, but is not a technical trail. It is popular with horseback riders and and hikers, so be on the look out for them. There is little shade so it can get hot, but this means that you get great views! The trail can be accessed from Mandeville Canyon Park in Santa Monica at the staging area at the end of Westridge Road, with access on the west side of the lot.
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Food, coffee and tools
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Certain sections of the route were closed, so get information beforehand about what is currently open or closed on certain days
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From here there is a perfect 360 degree view. Santa Monica mountains are completely visible in good weather
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available in Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Preserve?
There are 6 curated no-traffic gravel bike routes in Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Preserve, offering a range of distances and difficulties for your ride.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Preserve?
The preserve features a diverse landscape of rolling hills, sycamore-lined canyon bottoms, and oak woodlands. You'll encounter wide, firm trails, including doubletrack sections, with varied elevations providing both challenging climbs and scenic descents. During spring, the hillsides are vibrant with wildflowers.
Are there any family-friendly gravel bike trails in Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Preserve?
While most routes in the preserve are rated difficult, the Mary Weisbrock Loop Trail – Las Virgenes Creek loop from Calabasas is a moderate option, covering 23.3 km with over 400 meters of elevation gain. The Mary Weisbrock Loop Trail itself is known for being wide and smooth, connecting to many other paths.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints along the gravel bike routes?
You can enjoy panoramic views of the Santa Monica Mountains, Simi Valley, and the San Fernando Valley from various elevated points. The preserve also features the intriguing Cave of Munits, a unique geological formation. The Albertson Motorway offers ample space and scenic views, while the San Vicente Mountain Viewpoint – The Hub (Topanga State Park) loop from Woodland Hills specifically highlights a great viewpoint.
Where can I park when visiting Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Preserve for gravel biking?
A primary access point with parking is the Victory Trailhead, which serves as a convenient starting point for many routes through the preserve's hilly landscape.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about riding in Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the extensive network of trails, the stunning panoramic views, and the feeling of being immersed in unspoiled California landscapes away from traffic.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Preserve?
Spring is particularly beautiful, as the hillsides transform into a vibrant display of wildflowers, including yellow mustard. However, the preserve offers enjoyable riding conditions throughout much of the year, with cooler temperatures in fall and winter often preferred for longer rides.
Are there any long-distance or challenging gravel bike routes in the preserve?
Yes, there are several challenging routes. For instance, the Eagle Rock – The Hub (Topanga State Park) loop from Woodland Hills is a difficult 47.7 km ride with over 1200 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the West Mandeville Fire Road – San Vicente Mountain Viewpoint loop from Woodland Hills, covering 45.2 km.
Can I find loop trails for gravel biking in Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Preserve?
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in the preserve are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Mary Weisbrock Loop Trail – Las Virgenes Creek loop from Calabasas and the Vanalden Cave – The Hub (Topanga State Park) loop from Woodland Hills.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while gravel biking here?
The preserve is a crucial ecological linkage and wildlife corridor. It supports a rich biodiversity, including endangered species like the California red-legged frog and the San Fernando Valley spineflower. You might also spot various birds and other local wildlife in the diverse habitats of oak woodlands, chaparral, and grasslands.
Are there any specific trails that offer a gentle incline for a more relaxed ride?
The Albertson Motorway is known for offering ample space and a generally gentle incline, making it suitable for a more relaxed ride while still providing scenic views of Simi Valley and Thousand Oaks.
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