Angeles Crest Highway Ride to Newcomb's Ranch

Overview

Angeles Crest Highway, State Route 2, climbs from La Cañada Flintridge into the San Gabriel Mountains. It is one of the longest climbs in Southern California, a ride that takes you from the edge of the city into pine forest. For many riders, reaching Newcomb's Ranch is a rite of passage. Part of the highway further east is closed for long-term storm repairs, so plan your ride around the open section.

The route in plain words

Start in La Cañada Flintridge at Foothill Blvd and ride north on Angeles Crest Highway. The road climbs steadily into the San Gabriels, past the Clear Creek junction with Angeles Forest Highway, and on to Red Box, where Mt. Wilson Road splits off. Continue past Charlton Flats and Chilao to Newcomb's Ranch, the classic turnaround. Return the same way for a long descent.

Plan your turnaround before you start. Some riders turn at Red Box or Clear Creek for a shorter day; the full ride to Newcomb's Ranch is a big undertaking with long, sustained climbing. On the descent, the road is fast and flowing, and the temperature rises quickly as you drop toward the city.

Distance and elevation

Carve and a published ride report put La Cañada Flintridge to Newcomb's Ranch at about 27 miles (43.5 km), with roughly 6,300 to 6,900 ft of gain, and Newcomb's Ranch at about 5,340 ft. Bikeclimbs lists a Shell to Newcomb's segment with similar figures. The round trip is roughly 54 miles.

Best time to ride

Spring and fall are ideal. Summer is hot at the bottom and pleasant at the top; winter can bring snow and closures higher up. Caltrans lists SR-2 as closed from about 3.3 miles east of Newcomb's Ranch through Islip Saddle and on toward Big Pines for storm repairs, with no reopening date; check the Caltrans road information page (roads.dot.ca.gov) before you go.

Water and coffee stops

Newcomb's Ranch is the classic stop, but check opening hours. There is little else on the way, so bring all your water and food. La Cañada Flintridge has cafés at the start.

Safety notes

ACH is a high-speed mountain highway popular with motorcyclists and sports cars, especially on weekends. Ride single file, use lights, and watch for rockfall and gravel. Weather changes fast; bring a jacket for the descent. Cell coverage is spotty.

Which bike and setup

A road bike with compact gearing and a wide cassette works well. Reliable brakes are essential for the long descent. Bring a vest or jacket. A light climbing bike like a Cervélo R5 shines here.

Before you go

Before a long mountain day, get your bike checked. Book a tune-up at Veloaded in Santa Ana, or call (714) 760-4908.

Quick facts

County: Los Angeles County
Start: Angeles Crest Hwy (SR-2) at Foothill Blvd, La Cañada Flintridge
Distance: About 27 miles (43.5 km) one way, La Cañada Flintridge to Newcomb's Ranch
Climbing: About 6,300-6,900 ft of gain one way; Newcomb's Ranch sits at about 5,340 ft
Surface: Paved mountain highway
Difficulty: Very hard; long climb at altitude

Pair it with

Warm up on the Rose Bowl Loop in Pasadena before heading up. Other big San Gabriel climbs include Glendora Mountain Road and Mt. Baldy.

Frequently asked questions

Is Angeles Crest Highway open to cyclists?

The section from La Cañada Flintridge to Newcomb's Ranch is the usual ride. Caltrans lists SR-2 closed from about 3.3 miles east of Newcomb's Ranch through Islip Saddle and beyond for storm repairs, with no reopening date; check roads.dot.ca.gov before you go.

How far is it to Newcomb's Ranch by bike?

About 27 miles one way from La Cañada Flintridge, with roughly 6,300 to 6,900 ft of climbing.

Sources

Distances and climbing are from the published sources listed above and are approximate; roads, closures and conditions change. Check current conditions before you ride.

More Los Angeles County ride guides

All guides: Southern California ride guides. Veloaded Cyclery has one location, at 3420 W MacArthur Blvd Suite B, Santa Ana, CA 92704: service menu, bike fitting.