Black Star Falls – Beeks Place loop from Santiago Canyon College
Black Star Falls – Beeks Place loop from Santiago Canyon College
4.8
(3405)
13,952
riders
Black Star Falls – Beeks Place loop from Santiago Canyon College
04:09
51.5km
1,030m
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: May 1, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
20.7 km
Black Star Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
21.3 km
Native American Grinding Stones
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
21.4 km
Native American Village Remains
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
26.1 km
Beeks Place
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
51.5 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
19.7 km
16.8 km
12.4 km
1.29 km
1.01 km
314 m
Surfaces
25.9 km
24.5 km
942 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (850 m)
Lowest point (180 m)
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Weather
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Today
Friday 10 July
24°C
16°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 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 test of your gravel biking prowess in Orange County, the Black Star Falls – Beeks Place loop from Santiago Canyon College delivers. This difficult 32.0-mile (51.5 km) route packs in 3367 feet (1026 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 4 hours and 9 minutes to complete. It's a challenging ride best suited for those with a very good level of fitness who crave sustained climbs and panoramic rewards.
What to expect on Black Star Falls – Beeks Place loop from Santiago Canyon College
Expect a diverse journey through canyons, chaparral, and oak woodlands. The initial Black Star Canyon Road is a wide fire road, but as you climb towards Beeks Place and the Doppler Tower, the terrain becomes loose and rocky, with sections reaching double-digit grades. You'll be treated to panoramic views, including glimpses of the ocean and expansive vistas from Sierra Peak. While Black Star Falls is a unique feature, many bikers focus on the climb to Beeks Place, a historical landmark perfect for a break. This route is definitely for experienced gravel bikers who enjoy a demanding climb and technical descents.
Planning your visit
Starting from Santiago Canyon College, this popular route can attract crowds, so an early start is advisable, especially on weekends. Be aware that the lower two miles of Black Star Road can become extremely muddy after rains, so check conditions before you go. While Black Star Canyon Road is public, there have been historical reports of confrontations with residents on private properties along the road; always remain on the public road and be polite. Also, keep an eye out for poison oak, particularly near the creek bed.
Trail details
- Distance: 32.0 miles (51.5 km)
- Elevation gain: 3367 feet (1026 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 4 hours and 9 minutes
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