Covina & Carbon Canyon Regional Park loop

The loop features a mix of well-paved surfaces, but be prepared for varied conditions as some segments in the Chino Hills area can be unpaved. You'll encounter 'punchy climbs' and fast descents, with significant elevation changes. The Carbon Canyon portion includes a very twisty country road with a 5-minute climb at 6-8% grade, followed by 15 minutes of rolling hills at about 4% grade.

This moderate road cycling loop is approximately 69.5 kilometers (43 miles) long and typically takes around 3 hours and 18 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and stops.

This route is classified as a 'moderate road ride' and requires good fitness due to its considerable elevation gain of nearly 3,000 feet. While it offers diverse challenges, beginners might find some segments with moderately steep grades (6-10%) challenging. It's an excellent route for training if you're looking to build fitness.

You can expect picturesque views as the route traverses through the Chino Hills and North Orange County. Highlights include the natural beauty of Carbon Canyon Regional Park, which features a small lake and Orange County's only grove of Coastal Redwoods. The area is particularly scenic in spring when the hills are green with rolling, grassy landscapes dotted with oak and sycamore trees.

Yes, the route passes by Mt. San Antonio Wildlife Sanctuary and goes through Carbon Canyon Regional Park, which is home to a unique grove of Coastal Redwoods. The natural landscapes of Chino Hills State Park, which connects to Carbon Canyon Regional Park, also offer extensive natural beauty.

The best time to cycle this loop is often during spring when the hills are lush and green, offering particularly beautiful scenery. However, the route can be enjoyed year-round, keeping in mind weather conditions and potential heat during summer months.

Parking is available at Carbon Canyon Regional Park. It's advisable to check the park's official website for specific parking lot locations and any potential fees or restrictions.

While the route passes through areas connected to Chino Hills State Park, specific fees or permits for cycling the main loop may vary. It's recommended to check the official California State Parks website (ca.gov) for the most current information regarding entrance fees or day-use permits for Chino Hills State Park, as regulations can change.

This route is designed for racebike cycling. While some regional parks may allow dogs on leash in certain areas, it's generally not recommended to bring dogs on a road cycling loop of this nature. Always check specific park regulations for Carbon Canyon Regional Park and Chino Hills State Park regarding pets.

Yes, the route briefly intersects with several other paths, including sections of the OC Loop, The Tracks at Brea, Schabarum Grand Spur Trail, Schabarum-Skyline Trail, Grand Avenue Trail, Carbon Canyon Creek Nature Trail, Telegraph Canyon Road, Olinda Oil Museum Observation Path, Jeep Trail, Old Brea Canyon Road, Tinkerbell, Tonner Canyon Road, Handicap Ramp, Olinda Trail, Eucalyptus Trail, and Telegraph Canyon Trail.

This loop is considered an excellent training ground for road cyclists due to its diverse range of challenges. It combines significant 'punchy climbs' and rapid descents with flatter sections suitable for pace lining, offering a comprehensive workout across varied terrain and elevation changes.