San Vicente Mountain Viewpoint – West Mandeville Fire Road loop from Downtown Santa Monica
San Vicente Mountain Viewpoint – West Mandeville Fire Road loop from Downtown Santa Monica
2.9
(22)
49
riders
San Vicente Mountain Viewpoint – West Mandeville Fire Road loop from Downtown Santa Monica
03:13
43.8km
780m
Gravel riding
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 8, 2026
Tips
Includes segments that go up or down a series of steps
You may need to carry your bike.
After 13 m for 10 m
After 43.8 km for 10 m
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
18.6 km
Sullivan Fire Road
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
24.0 km
Sullivan Canyon Overlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
25.2 km
San Vicente Mountain Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
25.2 km
San Vicente Mountain Nike Missile Radar Tower
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
28.2 km
West Mandeville Ridge Trail
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
29.1 km
West Mandeville Fire Road
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
31.2 km
Mandeville Canyon Park
Nature Reserve
43.8 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
17.0 km
17.0 km
7.03 km
1.42 km
1.36 km
Surfaces
20.6 km
13.3 km
9.37 km
229 m
161 m
125 m
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Elevation
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Wednesday 8 July
21°C
17°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a truly challenging and rewarding gravel biking experience near Santa Monica, the San Vicente Mountain Viewpoint – West Mandeville Fire Road loop from Downtown Santa Monica delivers. This difficult 27.2-mile (43.8 km) route, with a substantial 2563 feet (781 metres) of elevation gain, will take you around 3 hours and 12 minutes to complete. It's a demanding ride best suited for experienced gravel bikers with very good fitness, offering expansive views and a solid workout.
What to expect on San Vicente Mountain Viewpoint – West Mandeville Fire Road loop from Downtown Santa Monica
This route is a journey through diverse terrain, primarily consisting of wide dirt and gravel fire roads, though you'll encounter some paved sections. The climb up West Mandeville Fire Road is steady, with some minor downhill breaks, leading you to the spectacular San Vicente Mountain Viewpoint. From here, you'll be treated to panoramic ocean and city views, as well as vistas stretching across the San Fernando Valley and the Santa Susana Mountains. Be prepared for significant sun exposure, as there's little shade along the fire road, which contributes to the expansive views but can make warm days challenging. The trail requires good fitness and some advanced riding skills, especially if you encounter rugged sections after rain.
Planning your visit
The West Mandeville Fire Road can be accessed from Mandeville Canyon Park, with a staging area at the end of Westridge Road. While you're starting from Downtown Santa Monica, consider your access strategy to the trailhead. This is a popular route, widely used by mountain bikers, hikers, and even horseback riders, so expect to share the path, especially on weekends. Remember to carry plenty of water, particularly on warm days, due to the lack of shade and the sustained effort required for this difficult ride.
- Distance: 27.2 miles (43.8 km)
- Elevation gain: 2563 feet (781 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 12 minutes
Comments
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