After a little downtown breakfast, ride on some protected bike lanes northeast toward the industrial district. The neighborhood character transitions to residential, which is also when the climbing begins. 

At the top of the climb, you’ll ride on steep dirt rollers. Some climbs may be too steep to ride, so don’t be afraid to dismount and hike-a-bike. There is a pond at the top of the hill, which presents some nice shade if you’d like to catch your breath. Then you’ll descend on wide trails toward a park area, which transitions to a paved river trail. The river trail then shifts to a multi-use path and then gets on a paved and windy road all the way to the Rose Bowl Stadium.

Past the stadium, you’ll soon find another dirt section, which quickly becomes a hike and bike up to the top of Devil’s Gate dam. At the top, you’ll get to the beginning of the Flint Canyon Trail. 

The Flint Canyon Trail is a shaded and scenic ride through oak woods and then up some punchy climbs. The trail also intersects a residential street and trail, but the cross traffic is generally low. You’ll know you reach the end when you have to push your bike up the final hill. 

Afterwards you’ll enter Cherry Canyon and the San Rafael Hills, which features steep climbs, but also fantastic views. You’ll travel on twisty trails up the hills and then roll down a steady and wide fire road. However the last descent is on singletrack, which has a steep drop-off. Be careful, but have fun! 

The last section of the route puts you back on bike friendly streets through Glendale until you find yourself on the LA river trail toward downtown. Consider picking up a beverage at Modern Times, and if you’d like, take them to the top floor of a parking garage a few doors down to enjoy them.