Aliso Creek Bikeway – Santiago Canyon Road loop from Orange

The Aliso Creek Bikeway – Santiago Canyon Road loop from Orange is a fantastic road cycling route if you're looking for a diverse and engaging ride. This moderate 44.8-mile (72.2 km) loop, with 2457 feet (749 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 16 minutes to complete. It's perfect for road cyclists who want a blend of dedicated bikeway and scenic canyon roads, offering a good challenge without being overly extreme.

What to expect on Aliso Creek Bikeway – Santiago Canyon Road loop from Orange

As you pedal the Aliso Creek Bikeway, you'll pass through rugged coastal canyons, open grasslands, and riparian woodlands, with old-growth oak and sycamore trees lining the path. Transitioning to Santiago Canyon Road, the scenery shifts to open hills and more oak trees, often with wide shoulders for comfortable riding. Expect a gradual climb on the bikeway and rolling hills with challenging sections on Santiago Canyon Road, making it suitable for cyclists with good fitness looking to work on their climbing abilities. You'll even pass by historical sites like the 1840s Serrano adobe site along the bikeway.

Planning your visit

The Aliso Creek Bikeway offers multiple rest areas and water stations, which are handy for longer rides. While specific parking details aren't provided, starting from Orange gives you good access to the loop. Given the varied terrain and potential for heat, spring and fall might offer the most pleasant temperatures for this ride, allowing you to enjoy the diverse ecosystems without extreme weather.

Trail details

• Distance: 44.8 miles (72.2 km)
• Elevation gain: 2457 feet (749 metres)
• Difficulty: moderate
• Estimated time: 3 hours and 16 minutes