San Gabriel Canyon Road Scenic View

The San Gabriel Canyon Road loop from Lario Staging Area is a challenging road cycling route that immerses you in the dramatic scenery of the Angeles National Forest. You'll navigate smoothly paved roads through a historic canyon, with a running creek often accompanying your ride, offering a refreshing escape from urban life. Expect stunning vistas of the Morris and San Gabriel Reservoirs, making the significant effort worthwhile.

This difficult 37.6-mile (60.5 km) loop involves a substantial 4344 feet (1324 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 40 minutes to complete. The Lario Staging Area provides convenient parking and direct access to the route. If you prefer a quieter experience, plan your ride for a weekday or start early, as weekends can be busy, especially in the section leading up to East Fork.

The San Gabriel Mountains are a premier cycling destination in Southern California, known for their year-round cycling weather. This route is highly recommended for experienced road cyclists seeking a demanding ride amidst beautiful mountain and reservoir landscapes. It's a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and challenging terrain that makes this region so popular among cyclists.

The San Gabriel Canyon Road & Mt Baldy loop from Lario Staging Area offers a truly epic road cycling adventure through the heart of the San Gabriel Mountains. You will pedal past the serene Morris and San Gabriel Reservoirs before tackling the relentless ascent towards Mount Baldy, where the views open up to reveal vast mountain vistas, and on clear days, even the desert and ocean. This difficult 65.1-mile (104.8 km) route, with its 8802 feet (2683 metres) of elevation gain, is a serious undertaking that typically requires 6 hours and 40 minutes to complete, demanding a very good fitness level.

To make the most of this challenging ride, plan your visit for spring or fall when temperatures are cooler, which is essential for managing the demanding climbs. The Lario Staging Area offers convenient parking to start your journey. Be prepared for potentially heavy traffic on Mount Baldy Road, particularly in its lower sections, so an early start can help you avoid some congestion.

Mount Baldy, or Mount San Antonio, is the highest peak in both the San Gabriel Mountains and Los Angeles County, reaching 10,046 feet, making its climb a significant achievement for any cyclist. The route also takes you through the scenic San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, offering diverse landscapes from lush canyon views to high-alpine forests. This loop is renowned as one of Southern California's toughest and most rewarding road cycling experiences.