The best gravel rides in the Santa Monica Mountains

The Malibu Creek State Park loop offers a fantastic gravel biking experience, blending varied terrain with captivating scenery. You'll navigate wide fire roads and scenic dirt paths, winding through oak woodlands and California grasslands. Keep an eye out for the historic M*A*S*H Helipad, a unique landmark along the way, as you take in panoramic views of the Santa Monica Mountains. This route provides a great mix of challenge and reward for gravel biking enthusiasts.

This moderate 13.9-mile (22.4 km) loop involves 917 feet (280 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hour and 35 minutes to complete. Located just 25 miles from downtown Los Angeles, the park is easily accessible for a day trip. While specific parking information isn't detailed, arriving early is always a good strategy, especially on busy days. Remember to bring plenty of water, as sections of the trail can be exposed.

Beyond its natural beauty, Malibu Creek State Park is notable for its rich Hollywood history, having served as a filming location for over 100 movies and TV shows. The park's diverse ecosystem also means you might spot local wildlife like deer and coyotes amidst the unique volcanic rock formations. It's a popular choice for those seeking a scenic and moderately challenging gravel biking adventure near the city.

The Inspiration Loop Trail offers a delightful 4.3-mile (6.9 km) gravel biking experience, winding through Will Rogers State Historic Park. You'll gain about 468 feet (143 metres) on this easy route, which takes roughly 33 minutes to complete. The wide, hard-packed dirt path leads you past eucalyptus trees and, in spring, vibrant wildflowers, culminating in spectacular panoramic views from Inspiration Point.

This family-friendly gravel biking route is accessible year-round and is well-suited for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. Located within Will Rogers State Historic Park, the trailhead is easy to find, and the path is clearly signed. As a multi-use trail, you'll share the path with hikers and horseback riders, so be mindful of others.

Beyond the scenic vistas, the Inspiration Loop Trail is notable for its connection to the larger Backbone Trail System, offering options for extending your ride if you're feeling ambitious. Its location within a State Historic Park also means you're close to other attractions like the Will Rogers stables and the Will Rogers Polo Field, adding a touch of history and local context to your outing.

The Eagle's Rock View – The Hub loop in Topanga State Park offers a challenging gravel biking experience through classic Southern California landscapes. You'll navigate a mix of well-maintained fire roads, hard red sand, and rocky sections, with some beautifully scenic singletrack on trails like the Musch Trail. The highlight is undoubtedly the panoramic 360-degree views from Eagle Rock, where you can see the Santa Monica Mountains, the Pacific Ocean, and even the distant San Gabriels on a clear day.

This difficult 18.0-mile (29.0 km) route involves a substantial 2796 feet (852 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 2 hours and 33 minutes to complete. Be prepared for 'punchy climbing sections' and steep grades, making it ideal for experienced gravel bikers. Topanga State Park is easily accessible, but arriving early is recommended to secure parking, especially on busy days. Spring and fall are generally the best times to ride, offering comfortable temperatures and clear visibility.

Eagle Rock itself is a distinctive sandstone formation, often compared to an elephant's head, featuring natural caves and arches carved by wind and erosion. The route also passes through "The Hub," a popular central junction for numerous trails, making it a social meeting point and a gateway to various parts of the park. This loop provides a fantastic opportunity to explore diverse ecosystems, from sycamore-covered areas to chaparral ridges, all within one of the most accessible parks in the Los Angeles area.

The Sycamore Canyon North climb – Old Boney Trail loop is a challenging gravel biking route that winds through rugged peaks and diverse canyons, offering a true test of endurance. You'll navigate varied terrain, from wide fire roads to narrow singletrack, with the highlight being the striking views of Boney Mountain and the distant Pacific Ocean. Expect a mix of surfaces, including rocky sections and potential water crossings, making for an engaging and dynamic ride.

This 20.1-mile (32.4 km) loop features a significant 1902 feet (580 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 28 minutes to complete. It's rated as difficult, requiring very good fitness, and you should be prepared for some steep pitches where you might need to push your bike. The Potrero Ridge Open Space provides access to this demanding route, so plan your visit with ample time and ensure your bike is in top condition.

What makes this route notable is its combination of physical challenge and stunning natural beauty within the Boney Mountain State Wilderness. Beyond the panoramic ocean views, you might encounter seasonal waterfalls and spring wildflower blooms along the Old Boney Trail, adding to the experience. This advanced gravel biking route offers a memorable journey through one of Ventura County's most scenic and demanding areas.