Upland Basin

The Glendora Ridge Road – Little Dalton Debris Basin loop from Montclair offers a demanding road cycling experience through the San Gabriel Mountains. You'll navigate a 'rollicking roller coaster' of a route, with stunning mountain views, expansive canyon vistas, and glimpses of the San Gabriel Reservoir. The ride borders the San Dimas Experimental Forest, and during April and May, you might even catch vibrant wildflowers in bloom, adding to the already beautiful country scenery.

This difficult 45.8 miles (73.6 km) loop, with its substantial 5432 feet (1656 metres) of elevation gain, is best suited for cyclists with very good fitness. The estimated duration is around 4 hours and 36 minutes. While the Montclair starting point is accessible, be prepared for some segments with rough pavement. Always carry enough water, especially given the significant climbs, and consider riding in spring for the best chance to see wildflowers.

Glendora Ridge Road is often considered one of Southern California's best-kept secrets for cyclists, offering 12 miles of well-maintained, low-traffic, winding roads. Both Glendora Mountain Road and Glendora Ridge Road are popular training grounds due to their significant elevation changes. The quiet atmosphere and natural beauty of these mountain roads, sometimes even closed to motor vehicles, make for a truly immersive cycling adventure.

The Rubel Castle – Little Dalton Debris Basin loop from Montclair is a demanding road cycling adventure that promises both a serious workout and unique sights. You'll navigate challenging climbs through the San Gabriel foothills, with the whimsical Rubel Castle offering a fascinating visual break from the grind. This difficult route covers 74.5 miles (119.9 km) with an impressive 7704 feet (2348 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring around 6 hours and 56 minutes to complete.

To tackle this epic ride, ensure you have very good fitness and are prepared for a long day. The roads are generally well-paved, but the significant elevation gain means you'll be working hard. Plan to carry ample water and nutrition, and consider starting early to make the most of daylight and avoid peak heat, especially if riding in warmer seasons.

Beyond the physical challenge, this loop stands out for its diverse scenery, from panoramic views of the San Gabriel Valley to the serene Morris and San Gabriel Reservoirs. Rubel Castle itself is a marvel of folk art, constructed from salvaged materials, making it a truly distinctive landmark along your journey and a memorable feature of this Montclair road cycling route.