Ye Alpine Tavern ruins – Inspiration Point loop from Altadena

If you're looking for a truly challenging and rewarding mountain biking adventure in the San Gabriel Mountains, the Ye Alpine Tavern ruins – Inspiration Point loop from Altadena is definitely worth your time. This difficult 18.6-mile (29.9 km) route packs in a hefty 3751 feet (1143 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 6 minutes to complete, making it a serious test of fitness and advanced riding skills.

What to expect on Ye Alpine Tavern ruins – Inspiration Point loop from Altadena

This route is a journey through diverse terrain and history. You'll start on some paved sections before transitioning to a mix of fire roads and technical single-track, including tight, rocky, and exposed sections that demand your full attention. The climb is relentless, and you should be prepared to dismount and push your bike on some of the steeper, more rugged parts, especially along the Castle Canyon Trail. Your reward for the effort? Panoramic views of Los Angeles and the surrounding San Gabriel Mountains, culminating in the spectacular vistas from Inspiration Point, complete with historic sighting tubes pointing to landmarks like Catalina Island.

Planning your visit

This is a hard mountain bike ride requiring very good fitness and advanced skills. While Komoot estimates 3 hours and 6 minutes, be prepared for a longer day, potentially over five hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend exploring the historical sites. There's no mention of permits or fees, but always check local conditions before you go, especially regarding fire restrictions or seasonal closures. Carry plenty of water, as the exposed sections can get hot, and consider an early start to beat the heat and potential crowds.

Trail details

• Distance: 18.6 miles (29.9 km)
• Elevation gain: 3751 feet (1143 metres)
• Difficulty: difficult
• Estimated time: 3 hours and 6 minutes