This trail was an absolute CF. I've been on better primitive trails. It is one way in and one way…read moreout no other options. There are NO maps and little trail indicators. You'd be better off walking barefoot on a coral reef. You cannot actually enjoy the trail because you have to always look down so that you don't trip and break your neck. I do not recommend, do so at your own risk.

The San Gabriel Bike Path is a very unique trail that offers those who are seeking a challenge. It…read morestretches from san antonio Mountains to Seal Beach, a whopping 37 miles total ride total. it's a great bike trail if you want to ride on your road bike with your friends ( or alone ). Normally, I casually ride here multiple times a month and haven't had any issues. homeless folks are still present around the riverbed, but it's not as bad as the LA River Trail Overall, I recommend this trail to anyone.

I ride this trail several times a year. Don't like to start at the dam, as I don't care to pay for…read moreparking. Generally I will begin in El Monte and head for the beach, but sometimes ride up to the dam from there and then down to the beach. The trail itself is well maintained, clear of debris and even graffiti. There is very little shade, but several spots to stop for water. When it's warm at the beach, you can expect a headwind as you turn back inland. Great numbers of egrets, herons, geese, and some picturesque riparian areas. Mostly it's long and smooth and free time of traffic.

I'm a runner that has been up and down various parts of the LA River Bike Path.... one day I…read moredecided to do a loop from various overpasses along the LA River to mix things up from my usual out-and-back routes. On my loop back, I happened upon the San Gabriel River Trail (connected via the Rio Hondo). Aside from realizing I was horribly lost (who does that running along a river?!), my time spent running along the concrete paths and by the small but quaint parks and various homes or factories was pretty serene. There is a ton less graffiti along this path that the nearby fork heading to the LA River... which honestly can be a little boring at times, although it gives you an idea that the path is relatively safe during the daytime. Watch out for cyclists... even if you are running against the flow of traffic (left side so you can see who is coming towards you) they will usually get pretty annoyed or yell at you, though I have no idea why since there's a lack of "no runners allowed" signs.

It's great it's only a few steps from my front door very well maintained they have awesome little…read moreevents throughout the year highly recommend this spot

I Love this neighborhood nature trail that's always a good option for us if we want to take a walk…read moreclose to home. We always use the Candlewood entrance that has a couple of dedicated parking spots along with neighborhood parking. The well maintained path follows the San Gabriel riverbed and provides access to a couple of parks along the way. Depending on the time of year, you'll see a variety of greenery and flowers which attract butterflies and hummingbirds. With a Candlewood start, you will have to cross over Del Amo Blvd to continue the trail. We usually cross the street and get back on the path that continues to Carson St. Some areas are nicely shaded and other parts of the path are in full sun. If you live in the area, this is a great walking trail with or without a dog.

This rest stop marks one of few that are in-line with the San Gabriel River bike path. It has a few…read moreconcrete benches, bike racks in case you want to check out the surroundings, drinking fountain, trash can, small hut with more concrete benches, simple labyrinth pattern on the grass, a map of the bike path you're on and information explaining the watershed. The watershed is a beautiful area where you can see the occasional white cranes, ducks, and other birds. Right now it's spring, so it's all green from the rushing water in the man-made river; it's at most beautiful. If you head south, you're essentially going down several hills. And vice versa, so plan your route accordingly. Sorry, no parking spots. And no restrooms either, so be sure to go if you're heading to/from the Santa Fe Dam.

It was hot, and pretty dusty. A lot of people were there on the same day. But there was plenty of…read moreparking, so that's gotta count for something.

I did this path during Veterans Day from Azusa all the way to Seal Beach. It's what you expect it…read moreto be... mostly flat and descending. It was fun and my first long ride in my road bike. There were homeless encampments that you'll see but they just mind their business and not bother anyone. If you're riding this, make sure you have some water and some snacks and review the route before hand. As far as potty breaks, there are big parks with restrooms along the way. I took one by Cerritos(Liberty park). I wouldn't mind doing this ride again.

I love this trail, it's just the homeless in some parts! I usually go with company during daylight…read morehours.

There is, perhaps, no better way to truly appreciate urban life than riding down a bicycle path…read more There are many in SoCal--some nicer, some prettier, some cleaner--but none like this one. I have ridden the entire thing numerous times, both in sections and as a single long ride. Over time, you begin to notice themes and trends... When the flowers are in bloom, when the water runs in the river, when the clouds of gnats gather, and when the locals are active. There are times when it is scary, serene, scenic, scented, but always satisfying. AZUSA CYN TO ARROW HIGHWAY: Starting from the northernmost point, there is a turn-around dead-end where the trail enters Azusa canyon. Most folks don't start here, but for the purpose of explanation, this is the top of the trail. Nestled well in the foothills of the San Gabriels and adjacent to some upper end gated track housing, the trail here is relatively clean, save for the occasional pile of sand or gravel. Heading south, the trail runs along the east side of the San Gabriel "river"-- an historic watershed that is largely concreted on its way to the ocean. This stretch is one of the more natural areas, with chaparral and semi-arid plants like yucca, sage, buckwheat, willow, prickly pear and cholla cactus growing amidst the rocky soil and Boulder-strewn expanse of the flat river bed. It is here that many enter the river trail at Lario or by parking near Encanto park and riding across the bridge. This desert beauty, interrupted by the 210 freeway and the occasional kid on a big wheel, continues down past the Miller brewing plant into the Santa Fe Dam area (see my review for more information!)-- in summary, many recreational opportunities, a nature center or two, and a beautiful desert plant path to walk... Rabbits, roadrunners, coyotes, snakes, lizards, and ground squirrels frequent the area. The trail continues along the top of the dam for a couple of miles, then crosses Arrow Hwy. ARROW HWY TO PICO RIVERA GOLF COURSE: The trail switches to the west side of the river below Arrow Hwy. starting with one of several rest stops for bikers. This first one is a concrete area with some benches, a shaded area, and a map or two of the area. Heading south, the scene is mostly industrial for a mile or so. Passing behind neighborhoods and schools, the homeless population starts to show up under bridges and road overpasses. Graffiti becomes common. Occasional broken glass and garbage keeps your eyes on the path. There are a few places where it seems water collects most of the year; local subsistence fishermen ply the waters here for carp, and the occasional catfish or stocked trout that got trapped here when the waters recede seasonally. There are several horse and livestock properties along the last few miles above the Pico Rivera golf course/dam area. Watch for the roosters in cages-- I'm sure they're just part of a breeding program, and couldn't possibly be involved in any kind of cock fighting operation.... Just above the Pico dam, the SGR trail meets the terminus of the Rio Hondo trail, which heads essentially north back to Arcadia via Whittier Narrows regional park and past El Monte Airport. Pico Rivera Golf Course is biker-friendly, and has restrooms, a snack bar, and a parking lot that seems to be used by many cyclists as an endpoint. PICO RIVERA GOLF COURSE TO I-5 FWY Just south of the golf course, you switch back to the east side of the river. This stretch prompted me to make a pepper spray purchase, and rig a holder for it in my handlebars. It is also good motivation to keep pedaling! Shoals of people-- some homeless, some harmless, and some homeys--wandering about or living under the bridges in communities. I once had a guy try to stop me holding a broomstick that I was sure was going in my front wheel as I sped by. If you time your ride when other cyclists are in the area or go with a group... And don't go looking for trouble... You just get through here. Backyard farms, horses, some illegal dumping, and urban rattle-can art highlight this stretch. Keep moving. Rest stops and small parks are overrun by homeless and weirdos. Respeto, Papi. I-5 TO SEAL BEACH As if someone hit a switch or waved a magic wand, the trail improves, and the scenery changes. Two big parks-- Wilderness Park and Liberty Park-- are decent rest stops with relative safety. Things continue to improve the closer you get to the ocean, but the crowds increase. Watch for kids, joggers, and pedestrians! Use your voice to let people know you're behind them. Within a few miles of the beach, the river is filled with water year-round, and you can see mullet jumping out of the water near the power plant warm water outfalls. Anglers try to snag mullet and tilapia here. Numerous waterfowl and wading birds can be seen here. Prettier and prettier... In Seal Beach, the last stretch heads down to the River's End cafe, and some beach restrooms, and a short ride to downtown and the pier. Happy cycling!

I use this lower section of the San Gabriel River Trail as a connector to get me from the Coyote…read moreCreek River Trail to the Shoreline Pedestrian Bike Path that ends at the Catalina Express in Long Beach. All of these river trails are an excellent way to ride a bike a long distance and not have to compete with the cars on the street! For that reason alone, I give this trail five stars. Plus the trail from Katella to Marina Drive was newly paved this year (2012). The San Gabriel Trail merges with the Coyote Creek Trail at the bridge crossing just South of Katella. http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/coyote-creek-bike-path-anaheim?select=5voIMVzbgym4CD4qv3sSfQ#EkKaZsu_4grxwPY3PbiKBQ This is where the canal always has an ocean water level and some wildlife habitat. You will most likely see pelicans there. Heading South, you will pass by the Haynes Steam Power Plant between 7th and 2nd Street. At night, the lights from the Power Plant illuminate the trail. After going under PCH, the trail seems to end at Marina Drive. But if you cross Marine Drive, the San Gabriel River Trail actually goes anther half mile or so and ends up at the Rivers End Café. http://www.yelp.com/biz/rivers-end-caf%C3%A9-seal-beach-2 If you go back to Marina Drive, you can take it to go around Alamitos Bay Marina and head for the Shoreline Pedestrian Bike Path to the Queen Mary! http://www.yelp.com/biz/shoreline-pedestrian-bikepath-long-beach After Alamitos Bay Marina you will take a left at 2nd Street, a left at Bay Shore Avenue and another left at 54th Place, which will take you right to the beginning of the Shoreline Pedestrian Bike Path. This trail will take you by the Belmont Plaza Olympic Pool, through Shoreline Village, go around the Aquarium of the Pacific and end at the Catalina Express. If you haven't had enough miles by then or you forgot that you have to ride back... you can stay to your left after you go around the Catalina Express and catch the Los Angeles River Bicycle Path!

Update this is for the west Azusa river not the east Azuza river. Attached is a photo of the east…read moreAzusa river

At the foot of the San Gabriel Mountains is a pathway into the canyons, bordered by towering cliffs…read moreand twinkling streams. It's the first right turn before you enter the national forest. Unadorned and easy to overlook, it's perhaps the most uncomplicated way to access the natural beauty of this area. Before you go, you need to prepare by...doing absolutely nothing. No Adventure Pass needed. Parking is free, marked by sizeable signage saying El Encanto. It's the remnant of a restaurant built in the 1920's that ceased operations about 20 years ago. A well-maintained trail curves gently down the canyon. On the descending path, you'll be accompanied by the bubbling river, lofty mountain views, and in typical LA fashion, colorful graffiti. It's an easy 2 mile hike round-trip with moderate elevation change. Though it says no river access at the trailhead, you'll actually end up right next to the river for the latter portion of the hike. The trail ends in a quiet oasis, sleek gray stones of assorted shapes and sizes protruding above the water like a floating zen garden. The Azusa Wilderness Park is still in its nascent stages of development by the Watershed Conservation Authority, a local public entity dedicated to planning and maintaining open spaces. Expanded trails, dining services, and interactive nature experiences are part of the plan. Exciting as all that is, for the moment, simplicity also carries its own tranquil charm.

Plenty hiking opportunities, refreshing air, and a nice scenic drive in. Be sure to have a full…read moretank, as there is no gas services. There is a cafe/ convenience store across from the campground where you can also purchase your day use park pass for $5. I experienced a foggy day, which gave a cooling effect to my hiking. Restrooms are vault toilets, so unpleasant smells and a mess are a given. The lake has lots of swampy algae, therefore not appropriate for swimming or water sports. However, they do allow fishing with permit. I am a nature enthusiast and it was saddening to see the lack of humans respect for nature, with graffiti and trash in some areas of the park. Crystal lake definitely could use more funding to preserve its natural beauty. The loveliest part is listening to woodpeckers as they work, watching an eagle fly above with a fish in its talons, and treading quietly not to startle the squirrel who is crossing my path. I suggest picking up a map with hiking trails from the rangers post or convenience store, before planning your day!

Very beautiful place. Just an hour's drive from La Crescenta, much closer than Big Bear…read more There's still snow there, the road is clear, and along the way, there's a mountain stream and a reservoir where you can stop. Download a map in advance, as there's no signal there. There's a small lake where you can take a walk, and a forest with a cozy family café where you can grab a snack.