FATMAP by Strava

Gabrielino Trail Shuttle

Angeles National Forest

Los Angeles

Shuttle run down the final portion of the Gabrielino Trail

Mountain Biking Severe

Distance
18 km
Ascent
201 m
Descent
956 m
Duration
0-1 hrs
Low Point
348 m
High Point
1.1 km
Gradient
Gabrielino Trail Shuttle Map

For many years following a fire, the Gabrielino Trail was closed to through traffic. However, based on recent reports, the trail is now open again in its entirety! According to a recent report by Ben Goyette in January, 2019, “the Gabrielino Trail was recently reopened in its entirety thanks to the efforts of some 100 trail building volunteers.” Hopefully the trail stays open and rideable for many years to come!

Description

However, if you’re uncertain of the latest trail status and don’t want to become stranded in the mountains, checking with the local trail advocacy groups and bike shops on the latest trail conditions is never a bad idea.

If you do hit the Gabrielino Trail, you’ll get to experience long stretches of seriously exposed benches with a long, steep fall to the downhill side. Some of the exposure is so severe that it could even be death-defying. While yes, going off the edge would be a bad thing, these exposed benches provide jaw-dropping views of the steep-sided San Gabriel mountains all around you! The tradeoff for airy exposure is airy views, so be sure to pack a camera and snap a few shots of the stunning scenery.

Thankfully, most of the exposed benches are relatively smooth, and most of the ultra-technical rock sections are reserved for the areas lower in the canyon. While the Gabrielino Trail does boast some fast, flowy one-track, certain spots feature burly rock gardens that are guaranteed to challenge most any rider!

Generally speaking, the upper portion of this descent is the most difficult section, and the trail gets easier as you approach the outskirts of the city.

Sources: https://www.singletracks.com/mtb-trails/10-best-mountain-bike-trails-angeles-national-forest/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r2rXpR9D1dE

Difficulty

Severe

Widely variable, narrow trail tread with steeper grades and unavoidable obstacles of 15in/38cm tall or less. Obstacles may include unavoidable bridges 24in/61cm wide or less, large rocks, gravel, difficult root sections, and more. Ideal for advanced-level riders.

Extreme Exposure

4 out of 4

Some trail sections are extremely exposed where falling will almost certainly result in serious injury or death.

Remoteness

3 out of 4

Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.

Best time to visit

between May and November

Features

  • Technical
  • Picturesque
  • Shuttle-run
  • Singletrack
  • Drops
  • Rock Rolls
  • Rock Slabs
  • Rock Gardens

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area