Circle X Ranch – Sandstone Peak Trailhead loop from Neptune's Net
Circle X Ranch – Sandstone Peak Trailhead loop from Neptune's Net
3.0
(8)
58
riders
Circle X Ranch – Sandstone Peak Trailhead loop from Neptune's Net
02:15
30.7km
910m
Road cycling
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
Tips
The surface along some of this route may not be suitable
Some segments of your route comprise a surface that may not be suitable for your chosen sport.
After 0 m for 171 m
After 21.4 km for 2.20 km
After 30.5 km for 171 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
384 m
Neptune's Net
Highlight • Restaurant
Tip by
8.98 km
Circle X Ranch
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
10.7 km
Sandstone Peak Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
10.8 km
Yerba Buena Road mountain views
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
Tip by
11.9 km
Triunfo Pass
Highlight • Mountain Pass
30.7 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
27.3 km
2.73 km
362 m
179 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
20.3 km
7.57 km
2.53 km
237 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Thursday 25 June
20°C
14°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 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 serious road cycling challenge with incredible views in the Santa Monica Mountains, the "Circle X Ranch – Sandstone Peak Trailhead loop from Neptune's Net" is definitely worth your time. This difficult 19.1-mile (30.7 km) route packs in 2999 feet (914 metres) of climbing, taking around 2 hours and 15 minutes. It's a demanding ride best suited for experienced cyclists who appreciate a significant workout on paved roads, offering a classic Malibu ascent.
What to expect on Circle X Ranch – Sandstone Peak Trailhead loop from Neptune's Net
This road cycling route primarily follows Yerba Buena Road, a renowned climb that winds its way into the Santa Monica Mountains from the iconic Neptune's Net. As you ascend, the scenery dramatically shifts, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands to the south, and expansive canyons to the north. You'll pass through chaparral plant communities, with a chance to spot local wildlife like blue-bellied lizards and scrub jays. Near the top, you'll be rewarded with excellent views of Sandstone Peak itself, the highest point in the Santa Monica Mountains. Expect a consistent, challenging gradient that will test your legs.
Planning your visit
It's crucial to understand that this route is for road cycling on paved roads. While the name includes "Sandstone Peak Trailhead loop," this refers to the general area, and you will not be cycling on the actual hiking trails around Sandstone Peak or Circle X Ranch. Many trails in this area are explicitly marked as "no bikes" or are unsuitable for road bicycles. Plan to stay on the designated paved roads like Yerba Buena Road for a safe and enjoyable ride. Neptune's Net, located directly on the Pacific Coast Highway, serves as a convenient starting point.
Trail details
- Distance: 19.1 miles (30.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 2999 feet (914 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
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