The best cycling routes around Duarte
4.2
(30)
648
riders
49
rides
Touring cycling around Duarte benefits from its location at the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, offering a diverse range of landscapes. The region features dedicated paved multi-use trails, including the Duarte Bike Trail, which connects to the extensive San Gabriel River Greenway. Cyclists can experience routes along natural riparian settings, through urban parks, and into the more challenging terrain of the nearby mountains. The area provides a mix of flat, accessible paths and routes with significant elevation gains.
Best touring cycling routes around Duarte
- The most popular touring cycling route is San Gabriel Canyon Road loop from Lario Staging Area, a 36.5 miles (58.8 km) trail that takes 4 hours 21 minutes to complete. This difficult route offers panoramic mountain views and significant elevation gains.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Santa Fe Flood Control Basin β San Gabriel River Greenway loop from Duarte, an easy 16.9 miles (27.1 km) path. This route parallels the San Gabriel River, providing a natural riparian setting and access to the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Duarte Bike Trail β Duarte Recreational Trail loop from Monrovia, a 15.9 miles (25.6 km) trail leading through the Duarte Bike Trail, often completed in about 1 hour 34 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Duarte is defined by its extensive paved bike trails, the San Gabriel River, and the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. The network offers options for different ability levels, from leisurely rides to challenging mountain ascents.
- The routes in Duarte are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.31 stars from over 40 reviews. More than 700 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Duarte's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
4.5
(2)
61
riders
58.8km
04:22
1,300m
1,300m
Prepare for a challenging touring bicycle adventure on the San Gabriel Canyon Road loop. This difficult route spans 36.6 miles (58.8 km) and demands a significant 4251 feet (1296 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 4 hours and 21 minutes to complete. As you pedal, you'll wind through the historic San Gabriel Canyon, enjoying impressive vistas of the surrounding mountains. Keep an eye out for the expansive Morris and San Gabriel Reservoirs, which add to the picturesque scenery. The mostly well-paved surfaces allow you to focus on the rolling terrain and the interplay of peaks and water bodies.
Your journey begins conveniently at the Lario Staging Area, which offers ample parking for cyclists. While the San Gabriel Mountains typically provide good cycling weather year-round, be aware that higher elevations might see snow during winter months. It's always a good idea to check local conditions before heading out, especially if you plan your ride in colder seasons. No specific permits or fees are required for accessing this particular loop, making it straightforward to plan your visit.
This route offers a deep dive into the natural beauty of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. You'll experience the unique character of Azusa Canyon Road, also known as Hwy 39, as it carves its way through the landscape. The continuous views of the rugged mountains and large water bodies make this a memorable ride for those seeking a substantial physical challenge. It's an excellent way to explore the region's impressive topography and enjoy a long day in the saddle.
6
riders
107km
08:06
2,710m
2,710m
This difficult 66.3-mile touring cycling route in Angeles National Forest features 8878 feet of elevation gain and panoramic mountain views.
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4.5
(2)
47
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
31
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
15
riders
25.7km
01:35
180m
180m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Nice bike path. not much roads to cross. some are hilly but doable for newbies. It's our first time and we had a good time. just some areas are with a lot of homeless people, esp. the tunnels.
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Great view from the cycle path of the San Gabriel Mountains in the distance.
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One of the best dedicated bike trails in the LA area, leading from the San Gabriel mountains north of Azuza along a car free paved river route all the way to Seal beach
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Leafy park with lawns and shaded seating, restrooms, drinking water fountains, and a bike repair station. Great for a break or as trailhead to ride west along the dedicated Duarte Bike Trail, a multi-purpose trail that was founded in 1977. It stretches 1.6 miles from Royal Oaks Park at Vineyard Avenue to Buena Vista Avenue. Next to the paved cycling path runs a dirt jogging and equestrian trail shaded by oak trees. The gently sloped trail follows the historic Pacific Electric Railway route, passing an arched bridge that once carried Red Trolley Cars to Los Angeles.
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Duarte Bike Trail is a multi-purpose trail that was founded in 1977. It stretches 1.6 miles from Buena Vista Avenue to Royal Oaks Park at Vineyard Avenue. There are both a paved cycling path and a dirt jogging and equestrian trail. The path runs under shady oak trees with gentle slopes, and the trail follows the historic Pacific Electric Railway route, where you can spot an arched bridge that once carried Red Trolley Cars to Los Angeles. Great for biking, jogging, dog walking, or leisurely strolls, the trail includes amenities like parking, restrooms at Royal Oaks Park, drinking fountains, and a bike repair station at Vineyard Avenue. Itβs open daily from dawn to dusk.
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The San Gabriel River Greenway is a 35.4-mile paved path that is known as an easy spot to ride. The trail parallels the San Gabriel River.
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Santa Fe Flood Control Basin is a recreation area in the empty reservoir behind the Santa Fe Dam. You can see and access this area from the San Gabriel River Greenway, a 35.4-mile paved, multi-use path that parallels the San Gabriel River.
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The San Gabriel River Greenway is a 35.4-mile paved path that is known as an easy spot to ride. The trail parallels the San Gabriel River.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Duarte?
Duarte offers a good selection of touring cycling routes, with over 45 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 15 easy, 20 moderate, and 10 difficult trails.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Duarte?
The touring cycling routes in Duarte are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.31 stars from over 40 reviews. More than 700 touring cyclists have explored the area, often praising the diverse terrain and well-maintained paths.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Duarte?
Duarte's Mediterranean climate makes touring cycling enjoyable for much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures, while winter can also be mild. Summers can be hot, so early morning or late afternoon rides are recommended during those months.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Duarte?
Yes, Duarte has 15 easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. An excellent option is the Santa Fe Flood Control Basin β San Gabriel River Greenway loop from Duarte, which is an easy 16.9-mile path paralleling the San Gabriel River.
Are there challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Duarte offers 10 difficult routes. The San Gabriel Canyon Road loop from Lario Staging Area is a demanding 36.5-mile route with significant elevation gains and panoramic mountain views.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Duarte's touring cycling routes?
Duarte's touring cycling routes feature a diverse range of terrain. You'll find extensive paved multi-use paths like the Duarte Bike Trail and the San Gabriel River Greenway, offering gentle slopes and riparian settings. For more challenging rides, routes extend into the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, providing significant elevation gains and mountain vistas.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Duarte?
Yes, many routes in Duarte are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your steps. For example, the Duarte Bike Trail β Duarte Recreational Trail loop from Monrovia is a popular 15.9-mile option that takes you through the heart of the Duarte Bike Trail.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes?
Along Duarte's touring cycling routes, you can enjoy views of the majestic San Gabriel Mountains and the natural riparian setting of the San Gabriel River. Key attractions include the Duarte Bike Trail itself, the extensive San Gabriel River Greenway, and the Santa Fe Flood Control Basin, which is part of the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area.
Are the touring cycling routes in Duarte family-friendly?
Many of Duarte's touring cycling routes are very family-friendly, especially the paved, multi-use trails like the Duarte Bike Trail and sections of the San Gabriel River Greenway. These paths offer gentle slopes and amenities, making them suitable for cyclists of all ages and abilities.
Are dogs allowed on the touring cycling trails in Duarte?
Most multi-use trails in Duarte, including the Duarte Bike Trail and the San Gabriel River Greenway, generally allow leashed dogs. However, it's always best to check specific park or trail regulations before you go to ensure compliance.
Where can I park when visiting the touring cycling trails in Duarte?
Parking is available at several access points for Duarte's cycling trails. Royal Oaks Park and the area near Vineyard Avenue along the Duarte Bike Trail are known for providing convenient parking facilities for cyclists.
Is public transport available to reach the cycling trails in Duarte?
While specific public transport connections directly to all trailheads may vary, local bus services in Duarte can provide access to areas near the main cycling routes. Planning your route with local transit maps is recommended.
Are there cafes or places to eat near the touring cycling routes?
Yes, as Duarte is an urban area, you'll find various cafes, restaurants, and shops conveniently located near many of the cycling routes, particularly closer to the city center and along major roads that intersect the trails.
Can I access Fish Canyon Falls by bike near Duarte?
While Fish Canyon Falls is a notable natural feature in the Angeles National Forest, direct bike access to the falls area itself can be challenging due to trail conditions and historical closures. The newly constructed Azusa-Vulcan access trail can lead to the Fish Canyon Falls Trail, but it's primarily a hiking route, and conditions should be verified before planning a visit.
Are there less crowded touring cycling routes in Duarte?
While popular trails like the Duarte Bike Trail and San Gabriel River Greenway can see moderate use, especially on weekends, exploring routes further into the San Gabriel Mountains or during off-peak hours can offer a more secluded experience. The View of San Gabriel Mountains loop from River Wilderness Park is a shorter, easy option that might be less crowded.
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