Dirt Mulholland Gravel Ride, Los Angeles

Overview

Dirt Mulholland is the unpaved section of Mulholland Drive along the spine of the Santa Monica Mountains above the San Fernando Valley. It is gated to public vehicles, with sweeping views over the Valley on one side and the canyons on the other. Gravelmap riders call it the best beginner gravel road in the area: not flat, but the climbs are manageable, even with road gearing. It is the perfect introduction to gravel riding in Los Angeles.

It is also one of the few places in Los Angeles where you can ride for an hour without crossing a single street.

The route in plain words

Dirt Mulholland runs between the end of paved Mulholland near Encino Hills on the east and gates near Canoga and Reseda on the west. From either end, the fire road follows the ridgeline with rolling climbs and descents. LA County publishes a quick guide to the Mulholland Drive trail, and Gravel Bike California describes a longer Santa Monica Mountains gravel route from Topanga to the Sepulveda Pass. Most riders ride out and back on the dirt, or combine it with paved roads in the Valley for a loop.

If you are new to gravel, ride a short out-and-back first, turning around when you have used about half your energy. The ridge rolls, so the ride back is not necessarily easier. Many riders enjoy sunrise or late afternoon on the ridge, when the light over the Valley is beautiful, but always leave enough time to be off the dirt before dark.

Distance and elevation

Gravelmap lists the Dirt Mulholland segment at 7.91 miles with 1,184 ft of gain, 768 ft of loss and a high point of 1,909 ft; about 93% dirt, 4% gravel and 3% pavement. Out and back roughly doubles the distance.

Best time to ride

Fall through spring. Summer is hot and fully exposed. Avoid it after rain, when the dirt gets muddy. A Gravelmap rider noted finding a gate closed on one visit, so check access before you go.

Water and coffee stops

There are no services on the dirt. Bring all water and food. The Valley below, especially Encino and Woodland Hills, has plenty of options before and after.

Safety notes

Share the road with hikers, runners and dogs; slow down and announce yourself. Watch for ruts, loose sections and rocks. Sun exposure is high, and fire season can bring closures. Cell coverage varies.

Which bike and setup

A gravel bike with 38 to 45 mm tires is ideal; a Cervélo Áspero fits perfectly. Road bikes with wide tires can manage, as Gravelmap riders note, but gravel bikes are more comfortable. Tubeless tires are strongly recommended.

Lower tire pressure is your friend on dirt: running tubeless at moderate pressure improves grip and comfort and reduces pinch flats. Bring a plug kit as well as a spare tube.

Before you go

Getting into gravel? Veloaded can set up your tubeless tires, adjust gearing and fit your gravel bike. Call (714) 760-4908.

Quick facts

County: Los Angeles County
Start: Mulholland Dr gate near Encino Hills Dr / Canoga Ave (east or west end)
Distance: About 7.91 miles (Gravelmap segment); commonly described unpaved section about 7.65-7.9 miles
Climbing: About 1,184 ft of gain on the Gravelmap segment; max elevation about 1,909 ft
Surface: Dirt fire road (about 93% dirt)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate gravel

Pair it with

Road riders can explore the paved side of the same mountains on Latigo Canyon and Mulholland Highway. For a bigger gravel challenge, see Nate Harrison Grade on Palomar Mountain.

Frequently asked questions

How long is Dirt Mulholland?

Gravelmap lists the dirt segment at 7.91 miles with 1,184 ft of gain.

Can you ride Dirt Mulholland on a road bike?

Gravelmap riders say it is manageable with road gearing, but wide tires and a gravel bike are much more comfortable.

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.