3 Hours Gravel Ride in Los Angeles with Photos Included

Taking to the trails around Los Angeles on a gravel bike offers a fresh perspective on this sprawling city’s natural beauty. While LA is typically known for its beaches, Hollywood glamour, and urban sprawl, this tour provides a rugged, authentic side of the city that many visitors never get to see. The experience is led by a highly experienced local cyclist who knows these trails like the back of his hand, offering not just a ride but an insider’s view of some of the most iconic dirt routes in West LA.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the challenging climbs and rewarding views promise an engaging workout and photo-worthy vistas. Second, the professional photographs included are a real bonus, capturing you in action amidst LA’s stunning landscapes. Third, the flexible route options and ability to accommodate various skill levels make this ride accessible for most cyclists.

A potential consideration is the need for your own bike equipment, as rentals are not included, and you’ll want to be prepared with water and snacks—especially since there are no refill spots until the last part of the ride. Overall, if you’re looking for an active, scenic adventure that combines fitness, photography, and a taste of LA’s outdoors, this gravel ride is worth considering.

This experience is ideal for those with some cycling experience who want to explore Los Angeles beyond the usual tourist spots. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a casual cyclist seeking a guided outdoor adventure, this tour offers a memorable way to see the city’s natural terrain.

Good To Know

• Scenic route: A 24-mile loop through Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, and dirt trails with stunning views.
• Physical challenge: About 3,000 feet of climbing, with steep sections both up and down.
• Professional photography: Minimum of 5 high-quality photos included, delivered via email on the same day.
• Flexible for skill levels: Routes can be adjusted based on riders’ experience and preferences.
• Equipment requirements: Riders must have their own bike gear; no rentals provided.
• Ideal timing: Tours run daily from early morning to early afternoon, with multiple start times.

Discovering a New Side of LA: The Itinerary Breakdown

This gravel ride offers a well-rounded but challenging adventure, revealing some of the best natural sights LA has to offer. Starting in Brentwood at the Bike Share Connect, the ride immediately sets a tone of exploration and exertion, with the first stop being the famous Sullivan Ridge climb. This ascent is described as tough but worthwhile, with panoramic views from the top making the effort more than worth it.

From there, the route connects to the dirt Mulholland ridgeline, an area beloved by local cyclists for its mixture of technical terrain and sweeping vistas. Traversing the ridgeline provides a sense of adventure, as you cross rugged dirt paths with the cityscape and mountain backdrop constantly in view. The guide, a passionate cyclist with intimate knowledge of the trails, ensures that the route stays engaging but manageable for different skill levels.

Next, the ride moves toward “The Hub,” a classic LA gravel destination where riders often gather to enjoy the dirt trails and social atmosphere. Here, you get a chance to experience the local cycling community and the varied terrain that makes LA’s outdoor scene so unique. Many reviews highlight the guide’s expertise and friendliness, noting how they tailor the experience to individual skill levels, which helps less experienced riders feel confident tackling the steeper sections.

The journey then takes you to Pacific Palisades, one of the most scenic spots along the route. From this vantage point, you’ll be treated to some of the best views of the ride—think ocean, city, and mountain scenery blending seamlessly. It’s an ideal spot for photos, and the guide’s professional photography adds a special touch, capturing these moments beautifully.

Finally, the ride descends swiftly back onto paved roads, taking a fun, fast downhill toward the coast. The last stretch is a relaxed cruise along the beach path, offering a refreshing end to the adventure. Afterward, you’ll head back-up San Vicente for a gentle climb back to the starting point, completing a well-rounded loop.

What It Feels Like on the Trail

The terrain varies from paved to dirt, with the most challenging parts being Sullivan Ridge and the dirt Mulholland sections. Expect steep inclines and descents, especially if you opt for the standard route—these are not casual rides. However, the guide is experienced in adjusting the route or pace based on your comfort level, which is a big plus.

The views are what many riders rave about in reviews. “The vistas from the ridgeline are stunning,” one reviewer notes, emphasizing the blend of city skyline and ocean horizon. The photos you receive often feature these panoramic backgrounds, making the ride’s effort even more worthwhile.

The group size is small—maximum 8 travelers—which fosters a more personalized experience. We loved how the guide shared insider tips along the way, from trail advice to local landmarks, adding depth to the ride.

The Photos: A Memorable Keepsake

One of the standout features of this tour is the professional photography. The guide, a skilled photographer himself, captures riders in action, with images sent via email on the same day. Expect at least five photos, often more, showcasing your ride amidst iconic scenery. Many reviews mention how these pictures make for great souvenirs or social media posts, and they add a personal touch to the adventure.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Price and Value: At $75 per person, this tour offers good value when you consider the guided experience, the scenic route, and the included photos. It’s a cost-effective way to explore LA’s outdoor trails with expert guidance, especially given the personalized experience and small group size.

What’s Included: The professional photos are a standout perk, but you’ll need to bring your own bike and gear, including water and snacks, since there are no refill points until the last part of the ride. This makes packing for the ride essential—think hydration packs or water bottles, energy bars, or fruit.

Timing and Availability: The tours run daily from 6 am to 1 pm, giving flexibility to early risers or those wanting to beat the heat. Confirmation is processed within 48 hours, but spots are limited to 8, so early booking is recommended.

Meeting Point: Starting at the Bike Share Connect on San Vicente Boulevard and 26th Street in Santa Monica, the location is easily accessible by public transport, and there’s nearby street parking.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This gravel ride is perfect for active travelers who want a guided outdoor experience that combines fitness with fantastic scenery. While some riding experience is helpful, the guide’s flexibility means even beginners can enjoy the route with modifications. It’s suited for those craving a immersive way to see LA’s natural landscapes and enjoy candid photos along the way.

Final Thoughts

This 3-hour gravel ride in Los Angeles offers a refreshing alternative to typical city sightseeing. With its mix of challenging climbs, breathtaking views, and professional photography, it’s a memorable way to connect with LA’s outdoors while getting a good workout. The small group size and flexible approach make it accessible and personalized, turning a simple bike ride into a true adventure.

Whether you’re a local wanting to explore new trails or a visitor eager for a different side of LA, this tour provides great value and authentic experiences. Just remember to come prepared with your bike gear and water, and you’ll likely leave with some stunning photos and a sense of accomplishment.

FAQs

Do I need my own bike equipment?
Yes, the tour does not include bike rentals, so you need to bring your own gear, including a suitable bike, helmet, and any necessary accessories.

Are the routes adjustable?
Absolutely. The guide is happy to modify the route depending on your skill level, making it suitable for both experienced and less experienced riders.

What should I bring with me?
Bring enough water and snacks for a 3-hour ride, as there are no refill stations until the last part of the ride. Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and your helmet.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers your guided experience and a minimum of five professional photos taken during the ride, delivered via email on the same day.

What are the start and end points?
The ride begins and ends at the Bike Share Connect on San Vicente Boulevard and 26th Street in Santa Monica.

How long is the ride?
The total distance is approximately 24 miles, with about 3,000 feet of elevation gain, offering a good mix of climbs and descents.

Is this suitable for beginners?
While the route involves some steep sections, the operator can adjust for skill levels, making it accessible for those with some riding experience.

What is the best time to do this tour?
Tours run daily from early morning (6 am) to early afternoon (1 pm), allowing flexibility depending on your schedule and the weather.

How quickly will I receive my photos?
Photos are sent via email on the same day as the ride, providing a quick and memorable keepsake of your adventure.

In all, this guided gravel ride blends outdoor adventure, stunning scenery, and local expertise—perfect for those eager to see a different side of Los Angeles on two wheels.