Palomar Mountain South Grade Climb Guide

Overview

Palomar Mountain is the signature climb of San Diego County and one of the best in the country. PJAMM calls it the most popular climb by bike in the county, and South Grade Road's continuous-radius hairpins are among the most beautiful bends you will ever ride. It is long, steady and never brutally steep, which makes it the perfect benchmark climb: if you can ride Palomar well, you are ready for almost anything in Southern California.

The route in plain words

The classic start is on Highway 76 in Pauma Valley, near Jilberto's Taco Shop and a small market. The first five miles climb on Highway 76, a busy road with a shoulder that varies from good to minimal. Then turn left onto South Grade Road (County Road S6), where traffic drops off and the hairpins begin: PJAMM counts 18 continuous-radius switchbacks. The traditional finish is at the junction with East Grade Road; many riders continue right and then left on Crestline Road to the summit, or ride on to the Palomar General Store. The Palomar Observatory is about five miles further for those with more legs.

Distance and elevation

PJAMM measures the climb at 12.38 miles with 4,483 ft of gain at a 6.86% average, and its main summary gives 12.4 miles gaining 4,580 ft to 5,513 ft elevation. The first five miles on Highway 76 gain about 1,585 ft at 6.3%. The traditional finish at the East Grade junction is at the 11.7 mile mark after 4,185 ft. The steepest quarter mile is just 8.6%: this is a steady climb.

Best time to ride

Spring and fall are ideal. Summer starts hot in Pauma Valley, while the top can be much cooler. Winter can bring snow and ice near the summit; temperatures can drop sharply as you climb. San Diego's backcountry is wildfire-prone June through November; check CAL FIRE before you go.

Water and coffee stops

Jilberto's Taco Shop and a market at the bottom are the classic pre and post-ride stops. At the top, Mother's Kitchen has long been the reward stop, but PJAMM reports it as temporarily closed for repairs as of its latest update; check before you count on it. The Palomar General Store next door is the fallback for drinks and snacks. A spring near the top is not potable water.

Safety notes

Highway 76 has truck traffic and a variable shoulder; ride single file and use lights. South Grade Road is popular with fast motorcyclists who hug the inside of right-hand hairpins, so stay far right on those corners. Watch for cattle guards, broken glass and gravel on the descent. Cell coverage at the top is limited.

Which bike and setup

Compact gearing with a 30 or 32 tooth cog is enough for most riders since the grade is steady. A light climbing bike like a Cervélo R5 is a joy here. Bring a vest or arm warmers for the descent, even in warm months.

Before you go

San Diego County riders: you can ship your bike to Veloaded for a pre-season build or tune. Call (714) 760-4908.

Quick facts

County: San Diego County
Start: Hwy 76 near Jilberto's Taco Shop, Pauma Valley
Distance: About 12.4 miles (PJAMM: 12.38 mi) from Highway 76 in Pauma Valley to the summit community
Climbing: About 4,483-4,580 ft at about 6.9% average (PJAMM); steepest quarter mile about 8.6%
Surface: Paved highway then paved mountain road
Difficulty: Hard; long steady climb

Pair it with

For a gravel version of the same mountain, try Nate Harrison Grade. For another San Diego mountain climb, see Mount Laguna via Sunrise Highway.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Palomar Mountain climb?

PJAMM lists 12.4 miles with about 4,483 to 4,580 ft of climbing at about 6.9% from Highway 76 in Pauma Valley.

How many switchbacks are on South Grade Road?

PJAMM counts 18 continuous-radius hairpins; some riders count 21.

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 San Diego 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.