San Clemente/Rose Canyons - Mountain Bike Trail

The San Clemente/Rose Canyons is an iconic flowing singletrack worth riding because of the beautiful views of the surrounding area.

The San Clemente/Rose Canyons is a moderately difficult singletrack biking route. It runs through canyons, rewarding you with spectacular views. The trail is surrounded by tall oak trees and brush but is incredibly easy to follow. It has a few technical sections that require expertise and easy-flowing areas that balance out the fun. The trail is open year-round and allows dogs and e-bikes. 

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 San Clemente/Rose Canyons trail flows singletrack through tall oak trees and brush. The trail’s first section runs through Rose Canyon, and the second section through San Clemente Canyon. The first section is paved for about one mile. The paved sections end on a dirt trail that opens on the right. From this point, the trail parallels the railroad tracks up to the highway.

You have to cross the highway bridge to continue on the trail. Past the bridge, the trail is a wide dirt path. It narrows to a singletrack after a few meters. Keep riding until you get to the small bridge crossing a creek. Crossing the bridge gets you to the San Clemente Canyon, which, as mentioned earlier, is the trail’s second section.

The San Clemente Canyon section is also singletrack but runs through oaks and brush. Be careful of all the poison oak surrounding the trail. When you continue on the trail, you will cross a narrow singletrack under the highway at the edge of a wash. The trail heads on to three other trails; Cobb, Krock, and Biltmore. Keep going until you reach the Canyon’s east end, where the trail ends. Turn around and ride Cobb, Krock, and Biltmore for a thrilling descent. The return trip is equally battering, ensure you are fit for the adventure.

Additional Trail Features

•       Highway bridge.
•       Three creek crossings. None of the creeks has water during summer.
•       Krock, cobb and Biltmore trails.
•       Karl Strauss Brewery. You may be lucky to get free tastings after the long ride.

Sights of Interest, Landscapes, Views

Riding the San Clemente/Rose Canyons is sheer pleasure. You will experience a few technicalities on the trail’s surface, but the surrounding view will give you unmatched peace. The view when riding through the canyons is unmatched. Moreover, you will appreciate the out-and-back ride because of the serene greenery surrounding the trail. The tall oak trees add to the serenity and provide ample shade on hot sunny days.

Moreover, you may spot several bird species and animals like coyotes, skunks, raccoons, rabbits, mule deer, and foxes.

Recommendations/precautions

•       The trail has sections with poison oak. Be careful and avoid getting close to the leaves of three.
•       You need a permit to access the STOWE trail on the east boundary of the MMC (Miramar Marine Corps) base.
•       The MMC western border is out of bounds, and you can be slapped with a huge ticket, or your bike may be confiscated if you flaunt the rules.
•       If you fear wildlife like foxes, ride in a group or make some noise to avoid surprising the animals on the trail.
•       Carry a lot of drinking water and sunscreen, as only a few trail areas are shaded.