Wella's Peak – El Prieto Trail loop from Saint Francis High School

If you're an experienced mountain biker looking for a serious workout and some of Southern California's best singletrack, the Wella's Peak – El Prieto Trail loop from Saint Francis High School is definitely worth your time. This difficult 22.1-mile (35.6 km) route packs in 3014 feet (919 metres) of climbing, typically taking around 3 hours and 20 minutes to complete. It's a challenging ride best suited for those with good fitness and advanced technical skills.

What to expect on Wella's Peak – El Prieto Trail loop from Saint Francis High School

The ride often begins with a fire road climb up towards Brown Mountain, setting the stage for the challenging terrain ahead. You'll be rewarded with awesome singletrack downhill, especially as the El Prieto Trail descends into an oak-lined canyon bottom, a refreshing change from the exposed higher sections. Expect frequent stream crossings and lush vegetation, but also technical features like 180-degree switchbacks, mandatory drops, and rock gardens. This route demands good fitness and advanced riding skills, making it a true test for experienced mountain bikers, though beginners may find themselves walking certain sections.

Planning your visit

Starting from Saint Francis High School, this popular route is best tackled when conditions are dry, though be aware that the trail can be loose. Poison oak is present year-round, so stay vigilant. Remember this is a multi-use trail, so be prepared to yield to hikers and equestrians, especially on weekends.

Trail details

• Distance: 22.1 miles (35.6 km)
• Elevation gain: 3014 feet (919 metres)
• Difficulty: difficult
• Estimated time: 3 hours and 20 minutes