Waterworks Flow Trail – Trabuco Creek loop from Santa Margarita Catholic High School
Waterworks Flow Trail – Trabuco Creek loop from Santa Margarita Catholic High School
5.0
(2046)
16,826
riders
Waterworks Flow Trail – Trabuco Creek loop from Santa Margarita Catholic High School
02:29
29.8km
330m
Gravel riding
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
4.43 km
West Ridge Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
9.39 km
Tijeras Creek Trail
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
13.9 km
Waterworks Flow Trail
Highlight (Segment) • MTB Park
eBikes are not permitted here.
Tip by
16.9 km
Trabuco Creek
Highlight • River
Tip by
17.2 km
Trabuco Creek
Highlight • River
Tip by
25.6 km
O'Neill Regional Park
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
29.8 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
11.7 km
11.5 km
2.48 km
2.23 km
1.83 km
155 m
Surfaces
23.1 km
6.04 km
728 m
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Elevation
Highest point (390 m)
Lowest point (130 m)
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Weather
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Today
Sunday 12 July
29°C
16°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
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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 gravel biking route that delivers a dynamic mix of flowy singletrack and scenic creek-side paths, the Waterworks Flow Trail – Trabuco Creek loop from Santa Margarita Catholic High School is a solid choice. This moderate 18.5-mile (29.8 km) ride, with 1097 feet (334 metres) of climbing, typically takes about 2 hours and 28 minutes to complete, making it ideal for a rewarding morning or afternoon adventure in Orange County.
What to expect on Waterworks Flow Trail – Trabuco Creek loop from Santa Margarita Catholic High School
Expect a journey through varied terrain, starting with the fast, flowy singletrack of the Waterworks Trail, which even offers optional jumps and features for an engaging ride. As you connect to the Trabuco Creek system, the path shifts to a mix of dirt and gravel roads, doubletrack, and some singletrack, winding through picturesque oak woodlands, meadows, and along the creek itself. Be prepared for sections with loose sand, rocks, and potential creek crossings, especially during wetter seasons. While much of the route is manageable, a short section of the Arroyo Trabuco Trail near Santa Margarita Parkway can present mildly difficult patches with small to medium-sized rocks, offering a satisfying challenge for moderate gravel riders.
Planning your visit
This loop is generally accessible year-round, but creek crossings can be wet in winter and spring, adding an adventurous element. The trails are well-regarded for their accessibility, making them a popular choice for local riders. While specific parking details for Santa Margarita Catholic High School are not provided, the area is well-known for its trail access. Consider starting your ride earlier in the day to enjoy cooler temperatures and potentially fewer people on the more popular sections.
Trail details
- Distance: 18.5 miles (29.8 km)
- Elevation gain: 1097 feet (334 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 28 minutes
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