Chilao / Silver Moccasin - Mountain Bike Trail

The Chilao / Silver Moccasin is a good tough climb for anyone up to a mountain biking challenge. The trail begins so high up in the mountain and thus has the shortest riding season in the region. It has great scenery and is a welcome break from the city’s crowds and noise. Even though it is rated intermediate-friendly, the Chilao / Silver Moccasin has some tough climbs and rocky technical descents. Here is a quick breakdown of the biking route’s stats;

Before you go:

Drinking water

Restrooms

Fee required

Lift service

Fat bike grooming

Family Friendly

Night riding

E-bikes allowed

Dogs Allowed

Obstacles

Shuttles

Detailed Trail Description

The Chilao / Silver Moccasin loop is the place to be if you need a technical mountain biking adventure. The sky-scraping ride begins at over 5000 ft and goes up to 6200 ft at Lunch rock where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning views before descending the rough, rocky downhill. We recommend the descent to experts only because it is highly technical.

The trail is not particularly a fast ripper, but some of its parts will push your limits. Since it is on a high altitude, you must plan your weather window properly to avoid being caught in inclement weather.

Besides being narrow and steep, the Chilao / Silver Moccasin trail requires your full attention because it is very brushy with chunky rocks and waterbar jumps.

Additional Trail Features

• Horse Flats campground which has 26 campsites and plenty of shade. It has picnic tables, vault toilets and campfire rings. You’d have to carry your water, though.
• Chilao Campground which has two loops for tent camping and various amenities like piped water, picnic tables and dumpsters. You can get great views of the Angeles National Forest from the campground.

Sights of Interest, Landscapes, Views

If you go for a ride in good weather, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the big Tujunga Canyon and the creeks that carve through the hills. You will also appreciate the fresh fragrance of sagebrush as you ride the trail.

Moreover, since the trail gets relatively low human traffic, it is a haven for various wildlife and sensitive animal species like gray foxes, coyotes, bears, bighorn sheep, and predatory hawks.

Recommendations and Precautions

• As the trail is high up in the mountains, inclement weather is inevitable. Plan to begin the ride early in the day.
• The upper parts of the San Gabriel mountain snows during winter. Plan for a ride during summer or brace yourself for the harsh conditions during winter.
• Bring plenty of drinking water.