Mount Gleason Area


On a clear day going east along the Ventura Freeway skirting across the San Fernando Valley at around Winnetka looking arround the 10:00 position one can see Mount Gleason. Its the last peak rising up from "v" shaped mountains(little Tujunga). Mt Gleason rises to 6500 feet in elevation and is broad shouldered. If you are riding along Hwy 14 in the area of Acton it is the highest peak of the mountain ridges to the east.

I like riding in this area because not too many mountain bikers have discovered it. You will probably find more off road vehicles here than mountain bikers. The rides in this area fit all fitness levels ranging from a moderately short 12 mile ride to extremely streneous loops over 25 miles that will test your endurance. From the peak of Angeles Forest Highway there is a junction in the road. The paved road to the west leads to Mt. Gleason. Its about 9 miles long with about .5 mile dirt section that is easily passable for any passenger vehicle.

Once on the peak, park your vehicle on the side of the road right before it narrows and drops 500 feet. The real peak is about .75 miles past the gated dirt road. For you beginners get on your bike , drop down 500 feet and take your pick at the fork what direction you want to explore on good fireroads. Remember don't get too carried away because your return trip is all uphill. To the left is the way to Mendenhall Ridge and to the right is towards Magic Mountain. Take your pick and ride to your hearts content. If you want a pavement ride, park your vehicle on Angeles Forest Highway at the junction to Mt. Gleason Road and enjoy the 18 mile roundtrip ride to the peak.

If you are a glutton for punishment, drive up to the peak. Park your vehicle. Take plenty of water,a spare tube and other goodies, and a couple of power bars. Get on your bike and prepare for a 6 hour loop ride. Drop 400 feet to the junction, turn right and enjoy a nice 12 mile downhill to North Fork campground at 4200 foot level. If you need any water this is your last chance. If there is no water in the campground, take it from the hose running from the ranger station. Now the fun begins. Turn left and drop into Pacoima canyon. Once in the canyon floor turn left and enjoy the single tract, numerous stream crossings and gradual uphill for about 5 miles. Try not to get lost. Hopefully you will see a trail to your right leading out of the canyon. The worst is over. Struggle up the 600 foot climb for about 1.5 miles until you get to the main fireroad back to civilization. Turn left and climb about 1000 feet in about 5 miles until you reach the junction of the narrow paved road leading to Mt. Gleason and your car. Force yourself up the last 500 feet. At least the view is nice and collapse in your car. Nice ride, wasn't it.

I hope you will continue to come back and explore the area. Take in the nice views here. Relax in the pines. Find a nice rock and kick back and soak up the pristine mountain air.

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