Peters Canyon - #PetersCanyon

Socal - Orange County - Orange NickNames: #PetersCanyon

TAKE CHAPMAN AVE EAST TO NEWPORT AVE AND TURN RIGHT. TAKE NEWPORT TO WHITE OAK RIDGE RD AND TURN LEFT. GO ABOUT 3 MILES AND THE PARK. ENTRANCE IS ON THE RIGHT. HIKING/BIKING AROUND A LAKE. GREAT FOR BEGINNERS TO PROS! CHECK THIS ONE OUT! Thomas Guide page 800

76 Review(s)Login

• Trail UpdateA Bit Rutty But Fun-hit this trail up on saturday (today) for the first time. Aside from the plethora of ruts was lots of fun. A few steep uphills but once you've crested its fun going down.

  Trail was pretty crowded, loads of pedestrians with dogs and a bit of dog doo. Couple other bikers.

  Had a good time, didn't explore all the trails but definitely will next time.

  
  gofaster a 34 year old Weekend Warrior riding a trek 6 from Temecula, CA

  Posted:02/21/2009

• Trail Update7.8.7 Weekend Fun-Just got back from an 8 am loop. First time and I was impressed. If you loop around the left (clockwise) you'll get a hill that you'll only get halfway up if you're regular shape like me. I'm sure you fit peddlers will do the whole hill. After that, though, what a fun ride! It's like a roller coaster up and down and your momentum will take you all the way the hills after you fly down. There's lots of walkers and dogs so wait until it's safe. The locals will appreciate that you respect that it is their day, too. I stood around and waited a bit, but it was well worth the fun and good vibes.

  Oh yeah, rut city, so be careful. I've a full suspension so it was cool, but I saw many hardtails.

  The willow portion was closed for environmental reasons. This is a fun place and I'll go again for sure.
  pablo a 36 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a cake

  Posted:07/08/2007

• Trail UpdateRussanaheim-trail conditions were perfect,smoth ride
  russanaheim a 24 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a specialized from anaheim

  Posted:05/21/2006

• Trail UpdateRidden 23 October-Peters Canyon was in good shape today. Some recent rain helped keep the dust down. Minimal drainage ruts on the steep hills. Lot's of fun!
  TStaples a 40 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Turner O2 from Orange, CA

  Posted:10/23/2005

• Trail UpdateRidden 9/14-Mostly hardpacked everywhere, except on some of the "singletracks" in places, especially the hill near the dam on Lake View. If riders didn't skid, ths would not be a problem at all. When easy switchbacks have a giant rut in them, there are only unskilled and/or uncaring riders to blame.
  Notorious MTB

  Posted:09/15/2005

• Trail UpdateTrail In Good Shape-rode peters today. the trails in good shape.

  Posted:06/25/2005

• Trail Updatecarrot....
  Buggs Bunny

  Posted:06/09/2005

• Trail UpdateWow, They Dropped The Canyon-I wonder why they dropped the proposed Santiago Canyon route? They've been pushing this off highway bikeway for years at every TAC meeting and community outreach for their new Jamboree/Chapman development, along with a trail around Irvine Lake.

  I wonder if they think that they can't get it done or if it is just a carrot to develop that land...
  GC

  Posted:06/09/2005

• Trail UpdateMountain To The Sea Trail-This link downloads a PDF of the entire trail system from Weir Canyon to the Back Bay

  
  marketing.irvinecompany.com/ Corp_Communications/MtnsToSea/mtn2sea_map.pdf
  Chez a 28 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Specialized from Irvine

  Posted:06/09/2005

• Trail UpdateMountains To Sea Trail-Actually the trail network already exists. It is technically possible to access Laguna Coast and El Morro canyon from Irvine, via Bommer Canyon. Bommer Canyon has several fire roads and some single track, but currently it's only open for docent led rides.
  I have been in touch with the city of Irvine (the owner of Bommer Canyon) and they have assured me that the plan is to open it to the public in the future. The problem is that the future could mean 2, 5, or 10 years.
  Maybe if we start a petition of some sort, they can expedite the proccess. I'm not shure if SHARE or any other organization could help with this.
  Pilas a 35 year old Racer riding a Scalpel from Irvine

  Posted:06/06/2005

• Trail UpdateYou can ride south through Peter's to the multi-use trail that somewhat parallels Peter's Canyon Road, and then Pioneer Road. It then takes you out to Tustin Ranch Road where you go East on Portola Pkwy, over the toll road, then link up with the bike trail that parallels the Peter's Canyon flood control channel. Follow the signs that take you to the corner of Walnut and Harvard, and you run along Harvard to the corner of Barranca and Harvard where the bike trail picks up again and goes out past the 405 freeway, past UCI, and into the Back Bay. Thus, pieced-together mountains to the sea
  Chez a 28 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Specialized from Irvine

  Posted:06/06/2005

• Trail UpdateMountains To Sea Trail-There's an article on it on the front page of the Orange County Register from Friday, May 27 if you can look it up. One of these days I'll have to get out there and follow the signs. The register article has a map that's of little help.
  CT a Cross-Country Rider riding a Trek Fuel from OC

  Posted:06/06/2005

• Trail UpdateMountains To Sea Trail-The concept is to have a semi-continous trail from Weir Canyon to Newport Back Bay.

  Keyword: "concept".

  The problem is that the trail won't be open to everyone unless the County of Orange changes their management policy with regard to the donated Irvine Co. land and somehow the new development by the Irvine Co doesn't fight use of the trail through their back yards (which usually happens).

  The designation would start in Weir (currently off limits unless you are a docent or on a docent led ride), head through Irvine Regional, to Peter's, across Jamboree and through the new Irvine Co. development (which the homeowners association will have issues with... they always do), onto the proposed (off of the main road) Santiago Canyon trail, to the Aliso Creek trail and then down to the beach.

  Great idea but implimentation will be a wishful process.
  GC

  Posted:06/06/2005

• Trail UpdateLovin Peter's Canyon-Hit Peter's Canyon today. Trails are in good shape even though I'm not. I had to take two breaks (sad huh?) but still had fun. This park has always been a good fitness gage (sp?) for me. I noticed the sign saying hills to sea trail. Anyone have a complete map of the hills to sea trail?
  abmtnbkr a Weekend Warrior riding a Giant NRS3 E-mail: abmtnbkr@yahoo.,com

  Posted:06/06/2005

• Trail UpdateThree Bs At Peters Canyon?-Glad to hear it's open, except that I missed out! We assumed all the parks would be closed due to the rain Fri. and Sat.

  I thought the Three Bitches were at Santiago Oaks on the way to Robber's Peak (en route to Chutes and/or Weir Canyon). Peters certainly does have its share of short but steep B's, though!
  Ride distance: smiles Elevation change: heck if I know
  cegrover a Cross-Country Rider riding a '98 DBR V-Link from OC

  Posted:03/21/2005

• Trail UpdatePeter's Canyon Is Open...-rode the entire trail today. The section over by the lake, is still fairly muddy. Overall, the trail was pretty dry. Surprisingly, not to many ruts, going up & down 3 bitches.
  Ride rating: Novice
  DHracer

  Posted:03/20/2005

• Trail UpdatePeters Is OK To Ride-Today we rode the entire park. The park was lightly rutted but suprisingly dry. We did go through brief wetspots that will make you look dirtier than you really are with the exception of one last mud bog on the eastern part of the lake that stinks like rotten horse pooh. The rains have brought plenty of greenery to enjoy. Good for a lightweight workout, some good sights, and fun but prepare to smell if you don't avoid the "stink bog"!
  Ride rating: Novice
  Ride distance: 7 miles Elevation change: 500ft
  Singletrack=20% Dirt Road=80%
  ICPAYDIRT a 32 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Santa Cruz Superlight, the from Pacific Beach

  Posted:03/06/2005

• Trail UpdatePeter's Canyon Regional Park-I just thought I would let everyone know that the park changed there phone # over a year ago and is no longer 538-4400.

  Please change your info to:
  (714)973-6611 or
  (714)973-6612

  Posted:02/07/2005

• Trail UpdateCAN'T WAIT TILL THE PARK-IS READY TO GO AND RIDE AGAIN ,,,HOW MANY DAYS AFTER THE RAIN? 3 ! OH WELL I GEST IS THE LEAST ONE CAN DO FOR SUCH A NICE LITLE PARK ,,,WE HAVE TO TAKE CARE OF IT ,AND DON'T FORGUET TO PAY THE 3 DOLLAR FEE FOR PARKING ,THEY USE THE MONEY TO KEEP THE TRAIL'S NICE AFTER THE RAINS,,,☺

  Posted:01/03/2005

• Trail UpdateUnless policy has changed, trails remain closed for a minumum of two days after a rainfall.

  Posted:10/29/2004

• Trail UpdateDbboy-Trail is closed at both south end entrances. I didn't bother to check the north entrance. Just wondering, generally how long until trails are opened once closed?
  a Cross-Country Rider

  Posted:10/29/2004

• Trail UpdatePeters Canyon-Big Red is doable. Lots of rain ruts now so you have to go straight up without weaving. Some muddy spots in the usual places. You have to pay attention now with rain ruts all over the park, especially along the ridgeline. I like it as it's not the same smooth trail now...until the repair crews show up.
  singlespeeder a 39 year old Weekend Warrior riding a kona from OC

  Posted:10/26/2004

• Trail UpdateBig Red-anyone climb big red since rain last week...Is it rideable?? How is rest of park

  Posted:10/26/2004

• Trail UpdatePeters-peters is a good rehab trail 45min-1 hour full park loops and very little strain. very crowded weekend mornings-midday. not made for the "big bikes".
  Ride distance: a maybe 4-5 miles Elevation change: 200+/-
  Singletrack=19% Dirt Road=80% Paved Path=1%
  orange a 1885 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a bike store from Orange

  Posted:07/25/2004

• Trail UpdateLake View-Just road lake view this morning. Nice and easy 2.5 mile loop, starts off as a wide single track type thing, climb on a dirt road, go down the other side, and again climb, once you get to the top, pedal about 20 yards to the funnest part of th ride. A fairly steep (for a beginner) loose, powdery wide single track. When you get to the bottum, you pedal right next to the dam of the lake.It comes to a fork, go left for the lake view trail, you do an easy climb on a fire road, it then closes up again for the last downhill. This last downhill is a meandering single track in the cover of trees. It's a fun thing to do at full speed because the turns come up into a little berm, so it is a good beginner thing. This drops you at the corner of the park, on the corner of Jamboree and Canyon view.
  On week days not very many people are there until late in the afternoon. Trail conditions are hardpacked and then a little bit of loose dirt. Nice trail to do in under an hour.
  Ride rating: Novice
  Ride distance: 2.5 miles Elevation change: ?
  Singletrack=40% Dirt Road=50% Truck Trail=10%

  Posted:07/23/2004

• Trail UpdateDid the signs say 'unconfirmed'? Every park in the county seems to have a similar sign as a result of someone seeing a coyote or a bobcat and jumping to conclusions.

  Posted:06/27/2004

• Trail UpdateWarning-Rode this trail this morning trail is in good condition. Mountain lions have been sited in the area signs said last sighting was 6-18-04 according to the ranger it is better to stay on the lake view trail and not to heard toward the south side of the park.
  a Downhiller riding a schwin s25 from Norwalk

  Posted:06/26/2004

• Trail UpdateRode this trail for the 2nd time ever. Fun short easy trail.. trail is in good cond. except for some really soft spots..

  Posted:06/25/2004

• Trail Update6-16-04-I rode this trail for the first time on june 16th 04. its a fun short trail. Very easy trail, good for beginners few short technical downhills.
  the trail is in good condition with few soft spots..
  
  riding a 04' KHS XC304

  Posted:06/21/2004

• Trail UpdateWent out last week with my 5 year old. First "off road" adventure. We went around counter clockwise until the top of "the hill" then back around clockwise. Lunch at the pick nick table. There was a fire in the area that day and we had an extra bonus of watching the fire chopper retrieving water from the reservoir. Someday we'll climb those hills! We also peddled down the road a bit to find a local park. We refilled water and my son enjoyed meeting new friends. All in all a good day indeed.
  Ride rating: Beginner
  canman a 44 year old Weekend Warrior

  Posted:06/12/2004

• Trail UpdatePeters-This is an awesome trail for quick rides. I ride this trail once a week for a quick workout right before my night job. The trails are smooth and hard packed...some sandy spots but totally rideable. Best thing to do here is try to beat your own time since there are no technical spots.

  Ride HARD, Ride FAST!!!
  Ride rating: Beginner
  Ride distance: 5+ Elevation change:
  Big Joe a Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Intense Tracer from Corona

  Posted:04/22/2004

• Trail UpdatePeters Canyon-Rode yesterday early evening and the ride was nice. There was one portion of single track through the woods which was interesting enough to bomb through. The trails are fully maintained and the ride is a beginner's paradise.
  Gekko a 32 year old Downhiller riding a Specialized Bighit from Costa Mesa

  Posted:04/20/2004

• Trail UpdatePETERS-A good ride by its self if you are a beginner other wise i reccomend linking this ride with santiago oaks/irvine parks. If you are creative their are 4-6 different ways to ride the park just to make it less mundane. If you like to climb, peters is not the park to visit. Beginner to Novice riders will enjoy Peters Canyon.
  Ride rating: Expert
  Ride distance: a few miles Elevation change: maybe 500 ft on one climb!
  Slhgt80 a Weekend Warrior riding a Specialized from Orange

  Posted:09/24/2003

• Trail UpdateRattler-A couple of buddies and I ride this trail at least weekly. Wednesday about 5:00 p.m. we rode up Big Red, followed the ridge route about halfway to Eucalyptus and came across a beautiful black rattlesnake about 4' long catching a little sun. Keep your eyes open!
  Rusty Bucket a 43 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Giant NRS 2 from Tustin

  Posted:09/11/2003

• Trail UpdateBeat The Heat-Hit the trail this morning at 0730 hours sharp. I knew I had to hit the trail early to beat the heat. The sun really beats down hard on this park. I entered the park off of Jamboree and Canyon View. The trails were in good condition and the burnt section of the park actually added some additional character to the park. I'm glad they caught the bastard who torched this beautiful park. Anyways, the park was crowded with hikers with the same idea of beating the heat. I've been riding here for years and this park is the best around for a quick work out.
  Ride rating: Beginner
  abmtnbkr a Cross-Country Rider riding a Giant NRS 3 from Orange

  Posted:09/07/2003

• Trail UpdateEarly Evening Ride-I agree with the previous post. This is a good place for beginners to learn the basics. Looks like Parks & Rec did some maintenance on the trails, which made for a smooth ride. Only saw a handful of riders and hikers, and everyone out there was pretty cool. I don't usually ride Peters Canyon, but if you're short on time, this is the place to ride (keep an eye out for hikers). Good riding.

  
  Ride rating: Beginner
  DeepBlue6 a 29 year old Weekend Warrior riding a 03 Santa Cruz Heckler from Orange

  Posted:09/04/2003

• Trail UpdateTrail Update-I ride this trail every couple of days. Not because it's my favorite but because I live across the street from the park and I need all the exercise I can get. The brush fire a couple of weeks ago did some cosmetic damage but hasn't effected much else. All the trails are open and in good condition. As usual, there are lot's of hikers and the occassional horse so be careful. It's a good trail to teach beginners basic skills and to trail run. Have fun!
  Ride rating: Beginner
  SO! a 34 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Specialized FSR from across the street

  Posted:09/02/2003

• Trail UpdateRare And Exotic Hooters Sighted.-...and I'm not talking about owls. While warming up at Peters Canyon on the lakeview loop at about 7:30AM on Saturday for a ride in Santigo Oaks a pair of hooters was sighted. The sunbasking 40 yr old hooters were that of a soccer-mom enjoying the morning warmth...a bit too much. Be aware that this endangered species may bite, and it is advised that full precaution is taken to prevent a unprovoked attack. Wear camoflague if possible, NEVER ride alone, and bring repellent.

  Good luck..Oh and the trails are in good condition as well.
  Ride rating: Expert
  Ride distance: 2 miles Elevation change: two peaks and one valley
  Fuji Steve a 25 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a the nicest Fuji in OC from OC

  Posted:07/07/2003

• Trail UpdateLakeview Loop & Eucalyptus-Be careful on the downhill going towards Jamboree. I did a face plant the other day after hitting a rut.

  Eucalyptus trail is a great workout; lots of hills.
  Jennie

  Posted:05/07/2003

• Trail UpdatePeters-STILL A GREAT RIDE IF YOU DONT MIND CROSSING YOUR OWN TIRE TRACKS 2 OR 3 TIMES, hiKERS LOVE TO STOP AND REST ON BLIND CORNERS SO RIDE KEEP AN EYE OR TWO OPEN. lITTLE CROWD ON THE WEEKDAYS
  Slhgt420 a 22 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a GT Old Skool from Orange

  Posted:01/25/2003

• Trail UpdateGood Workout-First of all I have to say that Peter's Canyon is not one of my favorite local trails. For once, is way to close to civilization to get the feeling that you are mountain biking. Also, the park is pretty small and usually crowded. That is why I hadn't really ridden there that much since my beggining days in the sport, about two years ago. However, yesterday I decided to give it a try and get a quick workout. I decided that I was going to do a couple of laps around the park at race pace. I have to admit that if you go hard and push yourself, you can recreate race conditions. Also, there are a few short but steep and lose hills that would send your heart rate soaring. Advanced riders will need at least two or three laps to get a real workout in this park, but if you push yourself, it makes for a nice training ride. Also, there are a couple of sections of fun single track ,which are pretty loose. It is a good way to work on your skills, especially the uphill ones. It took me about an hour to do two laps, aproximately 14 miles.Overall, a good work out. I think I'll ride here more often.
  Ride distance: around 14 miles Elevation change: not much
  Pilas a 34 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Cannondale Hardtail from Irvine

  Posted:09/09/2002

• Trail UpdatePeters Canyon Mtn Bike Clinic-Peters Canyon will be having a Bike clinic on Saturday, August 24th from 9:00 am to 11:00 am. The clinic will be geared towards beginning and intermediate riders and will cover:
  Low Impact Cycling,
  Self Sufficiency and Maintenance Tips
  And Sports / Trail Etiquette.

  Anyone interested in attending, or if you know any newcomers that would like to attend; pass this on, or call to reserve a space.

  Space is limited so R.S.V.P. early to 714-227-1780 (Peters Canyon Regional Park). The event is free; parking is $2.00.

  Any questions, feel free to e-mail me.
  
  Jam-R a 48 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Classic Steel from Capo

  Posted:07/29/2002

• Trail UpdatePeter's Canyon looks like it's gonna be in great shape for the summer. Anybody who uses this park can tell right away that it's well cared for. The trails are in excellent shape. My helmet goes off to the park staff and volunteers who keep this park up. I pitch in a litte by picking up trash along side the trail.
  abmtnbkr a Cross-Country Rider riding a several: Access ALU/KHS/Gary Fisher Joshua/ from Orange,Ca

  Posted:06/13/2002

• Trail UpdateTrail Days Cancelled-Watershed Weekend is cancelled. The County apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. Questions regarding future volunteer activities may be directed to Ranger Steve Bonhall, care of Santiago Oaks Regional Park at (714) 538-4400.
  
  Ranger Mike

  Posted:09/01/2001

• Trail UpdateOne More Chance To Volunteer-Watershed Weekend, the last big volunteer event of the year, is just around the corner. With a 50+ acre reservoir and over two miles of stream channels supporting extensive freshwater marsh and riparian woodlands, Peters Canyon scrubs urban runoff and provides habitat for over 150 bird species for both the Santa Ana River and Newport Bay drainage basins. Watershed Weekend highlights the important role of healthy lakes and streams in providing clean water for consumption, recreation, and wildlife preservation.

  This year's event, our Fourth Annual, is divided into two parts. On Saturday, 15 September, we will clean up trash along the trails and restore native vegetation near the reservoir to improve water quality and provide habitat for wetland and upland birds. On Sunday, 16 September, we will prepare the trails for winter, cleaning out existing drainage diversions and installing water bars and swales in two locations.

  Check-in begins at 8:30 a.m. both Saturday and Sunday and we will begin work at 9:00 a.m. Lunch will be provided on Saturday by the Orange Park Acres 4-H club; lunch Sunday will be arranged. We will work until noon each day. Tools and gloves are provided and drinking water will be available - please bring sunscreen and appropriate clothing for working in or around brush.

  For more information, e-mail me at the address provided. Hope to see you in September!
  
  DeRanger a Cross-Country Rider .orange.ca.us

  Posted:08/03/2001

• Trail UpdateWhat You Do Is What You Get. . .-Finally got to meet Ranger Mike on a Sunday afternoon. Also, got the wonderful surprise of the Peters Cyn bike trail. “And what surprise was that?” you might ask. It is surprisingly beautiful. It is a surprisingly flexible trail to meet the needs of almost any level of cycling. The trail can be worked from many different directions and lines can be picked to increase or decrease the level of difficulty for each one. As far as meeting Ranger Mike . . . . - - - - - - well you decide for yourself when you meet him<;-?) The previous post have pretty well covered the directional choices and different combinations. What I don’t think gets enough coverage, is the amount of work involved to keep this kind of recreation available to all of us. I will put some time in on this place for sure. Considering the proximity to over development and congestion, this park and trail system stretches the definition of miracle. There is a serenity that abounds in this island of nature as well. A way under rated fun zone in Orange IMHO.

  Ranger - For one who closely aligns himself with law and order, you sure work hard to preserve the beauty of chaos in nature and this park displays an amazing example in its variety of systems. Thank you - Gus
  Ride rating: Novice
  Ride distance: as you like Elevation change: up and down
  Gusitar from Santa Monica

  Posted:08/02/2001

• Trail UpdatePeter's Pain Canyon-There is defiantly a right way and wrong way to ride this place. The wrong way, counter-clockwise. (The way I went 1st time out) should only be done by advanced mountain goats as the uphills are steeper and sandier than taking the trails clockwise. Overall this is a fun place to ride that draws a small crowd of locals.

  P.S. I found a link to a review and a map of Peter's Canyon at OCNOW
  
  Ride rating: Intermediate
  Ride distance: 6 miles Elevation change:
  Singletrack=20% Dirt Road=80%
  Dawg_Man a 35 year old Cross-Country Rider from Chino Hills URL: Dawg_Man

  Posted:07/20/2001

• Trail UpdatePeters-for Amimals Only-I shouldn't do this but I have to share. For you goats out there looking for some good technical climbing and no crowds. Here is loop that will make ya burn. Instead of starting in the park, do this.

  Go up Newport Ave. and if you are traveling up the hill you will see an entrance to a dirt trail right past a street named Hyde Park. Park on Hyde and enter this gate. Follow this equiestrian trail, you will cross a couple of streets but stay on it. There is some sweet technical uphill and downhills on this trail. Eventually it ends at the bottom of a private road. Go right and follow the private road and make a left onto lower lake road, this will take you to the ditch.

  Enter the gate and go immidiately right and up through the eucaliptus trees, then you have two good climbs (the first is steep we call it the Materhorn) and a slow downhill, at the bottom go left up a short climb (100ft) and make a right and continue up the backside of El Macho. This will put you at the top of Big Red.

  Go down Big Red and do the rest of the lake loop, this will put you back at the bottom of Big Red. If feeling strong, go up Bid Red, down El Macho then back down to the fire road. Go left and the bottom fire road and look for a singletrack trail that goes up on the left. This is called Scout Trail. Go up Scout, and at the top go right up the hill and follow the ridge back to the Eucaliptus trail, head out the Gate that you came in at the bottom and back through the equestrian trail from which you came Its a killer ride, not sure of the distace but it is a real burner to be sure
  Ride rating: Advanced
  DaShak a 39 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Specialized Enduro from Tustin Hills .net

  Posted:07/01/2001

• Trail UpdatePeters Canyon-Features!! Woo-Hoo!! Thats what I like to here from the powers that be! Great job, I really like it that the ridge trail will be allowed to revert to single track.Out of town for the last trail maintenance day but post or E mail and I am yours for the next go round.Now if we could just get those pesky state guys at Chino Hills to forget the grading in a few spots we would be set.
  Martin W a 48 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Trek 8500 from Irvine

  Posted:06/06/2001

• Trail UpdateThose Aren't Ruts...-...they're features! The Ridge Tr. is going to slooowly make its way down to singletrack, and I have every intention of keeping all the rockgardens and short technical lines. I stopped the annual grading of the park trails in 1997, and since then the drops on the ridge are less erosive and more stable (and interesting!) - funny how much better the conditions are when we stopped digging the trails into the ridgetop and creating several tons of loose dirt each year...

  The only ruts in dire need of repair are the stream crossing at the bottom of Redface (which gets culverted this weekend), a depression at the top of the Gnatcatcher Tr., and the ruts at the bottom of the Eucalyptus Tr. (which are highly erosive at present and may require some sort of drainage control). Also, the drop on the west face of Reservoir Hill will require some slope restoration due to excessive trail width and the sedimentation that goes straight into the reservoir.

  Don't worry - I like the little techie parts, too. To me, those rocky sections and the ruts that cross the trail are what I find most appealing about mountain biking, and they will be maintained as such as long as they don't impact the habitat adjacent to the trails.
  
  DeRanger a 36 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a matte-black Trek 6700 from the ranger station at The Canyon

  Posted:06/05/2001

• Trail UpdatePeters Canyon-What a jewel of a park this is! It has been more than a year since I have ridden here and I had forgotten what a pleasent ride it can be.Nothing outrageous as far as technical challenge goes but the lake views and lush flora make it worth the trip.I especialy liked the new lines that have been cut on the two single track trails that descend from the ridge down to the main canyon. The middle trail has some nice off camber and rutted sections that keep you on your toes and the switchback twoards the bottom is a good one to practice on.Steep enough to be a challenge,but no dire consequences(soft landing)if you don't clean it.The main ridge trail has developed some rutted and rocky sections on the downhills that in MHO make the ride more interesting.Wildlife is abundant.There has always been large covies of quail here and their calls were everywhere today.Another thing I especially appreciate is the large Matijalla(Spelling?)Poppy in the parking lot that is still lush and in bloom as it has been for years.
  Note to DeRanger:The ruts are kinda nice,do they all need to be fixed?
  Ride rating: Beginner
  Ride distance: miles 12(Two laps from the parking lot) Elevation change: Plenty if you hit the water tower hill
  Singletrack=10% Dirt Road=90%
  MartinW a 48 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Trek 8500 from Irvine E-mail: opmmartin @earthlink.net

  Posted:06/05/2001

• Trail UpdateNational Trails Day-Reminder that Saturday, 2 June is National Trails Day. Seeking volunteers to assist with installing a culvert at the bottom of Redface (part of the East Ridge Tr.). The project will take two to three hours. Water, tools, and gloves are provided. Check-in starts at the ranger station at 8:30 a.m. and we'll head for the work site at 9:00 a.m. I expect we'll be done by noon at the very latest, leaving plenty of time to explore the local trails afterward.

  The ranger station is located at the main staging area on Canyon View Ave. between Newport Ave. and Jamboree Rd. in Orange (Thos. Guide p. 800). Parking for registered volunteers is free for the day. Please call me at (714) 227-1780 if you need more information.

  Ranger Mike <:-)
  DeRanger a 36 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Trek 6.7K from The Canyon .orange.ca.us

  Posted:05/30/2001

• Trail UpdateTrail Daze-The fickle spring weather that brought us the amazing wildflower display also fouled up our trail days last weekend. Due to short but intense downpours Friday night, the park was closed Saturday and I was forced to turn away more than forty volunteers. Sunday only one die-hard made it out (thanks again for your help, Scott! Really appreciated!), but we still brushed a dense thicket of willow and mulefat branches along the Peters Canyon Trail. (I know El Jefe would've been there if he wasn't using his helmet as a soil tamp the day before...)

  Our next volunteer trail day is National Trails Day, 2 June 2001 at 9:00 a.m. (check in starts at 8:30 a.m.). Depending on how much me and the park technician get done between now and then, projects may include any one or two of the following: filling the ruts and the switchback on the Eucalyptus Tr., filling the ruts on the PCT just south of the willows, filling the ruts and installing new drainage swales on the Gnatcatcher Tr., installing drainage dips and/or waterbars on the Lake View Tr. near the dam, or building the new connector trail near the shelter mid-way down the Canyon.

  I'll post more details again as we get closer to the day. Hope to see you in June!
  
  DeRanger a 36 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Trek hardtail with a shovel on my back from a rutted but rideable trails system in the Canyon .orange.ca.us URL: OCHBP website

  Posted:04/24/2001

• Trail UpdateWildflowers-The Canyon is putting on an amazing wildflower display this spring, far and away the best I've seen in years in OC. I photographed more than 40 species in bloom this weekend, and I'm not done yet. Look for owl clover and mariposa lily on the East Ridge Tr., cryptantha and Indian paintbrush along the Peters Canyon Tr. and blue-eyed grass and Parry's phaecelia along the Lake View Tr.

  A reminder: please stay on trail at all times and remember that collecting plants, wildlife, rocks, and artifacts is prohibited at the park. Bring a camera or a sketch pad and take a few minutes out of your ride to enjoy a real spectacle.
  
  DeRanger a 36 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Trek amidst the wildflowers from the late spring rains at The Canyon

  Posted:04/16/2001

• Trail UpdateClockwise Loop-Been doing a few training rides here after work.
  Start from Parking lot near swithcback cyclery for a warmup. Start timing myself from the lot, do a loop of all the lake singletrack (pretty fun little singletrack), then start the ups and down hills.
  Big red is fun. I also really like the fast up n' down section before getting to the last section of singletrack before the far gate. Doing it in about 25 minutes and is good training for XC racing I think, and fun. Soon will start heading over to Oaks for better riding though...

  Spoke with a ranger today about the bikes. Do try and go really slow when you come upon hikers, especially on the sinlgetrack, don't scare them. Let's keep this place open to us bikers for some good little training rides.
  Ride rating: Novice
  Ride distance: 6 Elevation change: a bit
  Singletrack=45% Truck Trail=55%
  Flowrider a 37 year old Racer riding a ellsy from HB

  Posted:04/11/2001

• Trail UpdateWatch For Fill-Watch for the big pile of dirt on the Lake View Tr. on the south side of the reservoir (west of Reservoir Hill). We stockpiled fill to fix the ruts on the west-facing slope of the hill, but we won't actually be able to do the work until next weekend. The dirt pile is marked by a barricade and flagged with caution tape, but watch your descents on that portion of the trail just to be sure.
  
  DeRanger .orange.ca.us

  Posted:04/01/2001

• Trail UpdateRedface-That segment of the East Ridge View Trail has many nicknames--Big Red, El Monstro, Meat Grinder--but the quasi-official name is Redface, due to the oxidized iron and manganese in the Sespe sandstone and because that's the way you look when you get to the top!

  Do I, or do I not, have one of the best office views in the County?!?

  [Saw the guy on the Sinky back at the parking lot, actually, right at closing...nice ride, but overkill for The Canyon! Perhaps a case of technology exceeding ability, or maybe just an off-day...]
  
  DeRanger a 35 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Trek hardtail from OC

  Posted:03/28/2001

• Trail UpdateNice Park De Ranger!-This was my first time at Peter's Canyon, so I don't know how trail conditions are compared to any other time, but the dirt is hard and dry on "Big Red" (is that what they call it?) Some loose stuff in places, and just enough rocks and ruts to keep it from being a completely obstacle free ride. De Ranger is calling for some trail maintenance, but if this is what is considered in need of repair, I can't wait to ride it in good shape. Super fast single track and fire road with enough visibility of other hikers and bikers that one could feasibly exceed 40mph on the downhill if one were so inclined and not in adherence to the posted speed limit signs....er, so I've heard.

  (Sorry "Kook" poster, gotta put in a quick anecdote.)
  I rode part of this trail with a downhiller. He was riding a Kona Stinky something or other with 5" of front and rear travel....way overkill for this smooth trail, yet still he biffed. I had to bunny hop his rear tire laid out across the trail, and then smiled as I rode past him about 25 feet further down, his back and face corndogged. Don't worry DeRanger, I made sure to mention that locking the rear brake not only causes a loss of control over your bike, but it damages the trail. I don't think he appreciated my comments.

  This is not a big park, or an especially technically challenging park, but the land and lake are incredibly scenic. Good place for a low key recovery ride.
  Ride rating: Novice
  Ride distance: 11 Elevation change:
  Singletrack=45% Dirt Road=55%
  El Jefe a 31 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Sugar from Lake Forest

  Posted:03/28/2001

• Trail UpdateSeeking Volunteers-...for California Trails Days, 21-22 April at Peters Canyon Regional Park. Helping hands are needed for a number of trail projects, including repairing erosion damage, installing new directional signs, brushing back tree limbs and shrub branches, and building a short connector trail. The event starts at 9:00 a.m. both days, and runs 'til about noon. Tools, water, and work gloves will be provided, and the first 25 volunteers each day will receive an exclusive Peters Canyon cloth patch.

  This event is sponsored by Trails4All, the Canyon Trails Assistance Unit, and the Orange County Harbors, Beaches, and Parks Division. Call (714) 227-1780 for more information.
  
  DeRanger a 35 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a pair of well-worn leather gloves from fixing the trails at The Canyon URL: Orange County Regional Parks

  Posted:03/27/2001

• Trail UpdateBad Luck Park...?-Hmmm...I lost my Alien somewhere in the park today...must be the ghost of James Peters lurking in the willows...

  Saddleback Cyclery is right up the road (Jamboree Rd. and Chapman Ave., in the shopping center on the southwest corner) for parts and stuff. I usually keep a spare tube or two around the ranger station, available for a suitable donation to the park...maybe a couple of links wouldn't hurt, too.
  
  DeRanger a 35 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Trek hardtail from the haunted canyon...? .orange.ca.us

  Posted:03/20/2001

• Trail UpdatePeter's Canyon.-What a beautiful day for a ride...The trials are in good shape at this park. Lots of early morning hikers and mountain bikers. I was having a great time until my chain broke.(yeah,I've heard of a chain tool and should know better to carry one and an extra link) So it turned out to be a nice day for a hike a bike..:) I don't know why I have bad luck at this park. The last time I lost a wallet (that got returned)
  abmtnbkr a Downhiller riding a KHS Pro

  Posted:03/18/2001

• Trail UpdatePeters Canyon-Got to back up the DaRanger on his last update.I would Highly recommend the hike a bike technique on this part of the park. Otherwise...What a bitchin day for a ride!! The park trails were in excellent condition and everyone was friendly and actually returned my greetings. Bummer part was that my wallet slipped out of my bike jersey. Dammit!!! If anyone finds a black wallet plz mail it back! Keep the 60.00 that was in it as a reward.
  Ride rating: Novice
  abmtnbkr a Cross-Country Rider riding a KHS Pro from Orange,Ca USA

  Posted:11/26/2000

• Trail UpdateMudhole-A broken water line at a private residence next to the park flooded a section of the Lake View Trail on the west side of the reservoir. We installed drains today, but it's going to take several days to completely dry out. In the meantime please either ride through the muddy area or hike-a-bike using the sandbag bypass. Please do not ride around the mudhole or the barricades next to the trail--this will only widen the trail or create new trails, spreading the impact.

  We can fix the rutted trail tread in a week or so, but damage to the vegetation along the edges of the trail could last a season or more. Please minimize your impact by riding through, not around.

  DeRanger a Cross-Country Rider riding a Trek hardtail with mudflaps from a boggy OC trail at The Canyon

  Posted:11/18/2000

• Trail UpdateHardest Route-Start at parking lot and head west counter clockwise around the lake. Head up "Big Red" and follow the single track up and over the top. Follow the ridge about 2 miles (Fun up and down fire road) 'til it ends and head right onto a singletrack into the eucalyptus grove. Follow the fire road at the bottom for approx. half mile and turn right onto Scout trail singletrack that takes you back up to the top of the ridge. There's a steep little switchback that will challenge your technical ability. When you get to the top of the ridge turn left and back track on the fire road the way you came. Take the singletrack back up to the top of Big Red (Again challenging your technical ability) and come down the other side. Turn left and go back up the trail toward the lake (Lake Loop in reverse) and back to the parking lot.
  Approx 8 miles with some great little climbs.
  Ride rating: Intermediate
  Ride distance: 8 miles Elevation change: ?
  Singletrack=25% Dirt Road=75%
  Julian a 32 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a 98 Fisher Montare from Orange

  Posted:08/18/2000

• Trail UpdatePETERS CANYON-What is the best trail/route for a REAL good work out?
  I've ridden this trail once before and found it very fun, however if there are other variations that are better...I would like to try it. The trail I rode before was around the lake, counter clockwise, up the hill all the way to what appeared to be the end, doubled back and dropped down through some trees and back out. The trail going out was pretty flat.

  
  Big Joe riding a GT Hardtail from Fullerton

  Posted:08/17/2000

• Trail UpdateGood Week Day Workout!-I realize that there are much more challenging rides out there, but Peter's is one that is close and quick. I ride with a group of friends every Tues. and Thurs. between 6:30 and 7:00 PM. We meet in Lemon Heights and drop into the South Western part of the park. From that point we head up the canyon road to just short of the Dam road then hang a right up to the ridge top. Follow the ridge to the forest single track then we finish by leaving the park on to the paved monster hills of Lemon Heights and back to our cars. Usually ride about 40 minutes and cover around 7.7 miles. Good weekday workout. Check us out on yahoo clubs at http://clubs.yahoo.com/clubs/ocsuckwindmountainbikeclub
  anyone is welcome to join us!
  Ride rating: Intermediate
  Ride distance: 7.7 miles Elevation change: ?
  Singletrack=5% Dirt Road=65% Paved Path=30%
  Bartdog2000 a 35 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a 1997 957 ProFlex from Orange URL: OC Suckwind MTB Club

  Posted:08/15/2000

• Trail UpdateSomething For Everyone-I know the lake-loop is considered a beginers trail, although you can eat it on some of the steeper parts if you go down to slow (hey, it was my first time). But I have to say the other loop, the one starting at the giant hill then going through about 3 or more hills after that can be pretty challenging. Going up the first hill is a real work-out, and you have to be carefull going down every other hill after that.
  Ride rating: Intermediate
  Ride distance: ? Elevation change: ?
  Singletrack=70% Dirt Road=30%
  Mike a 19 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a GT Outpost, buying a Fisher Sugar 3 from Yorba Linda, CA

  Posted:07/31/2000

• Trail UpdatePeter's Canyon-Hot one today but the trails in this park are good. Some heavy sandy parts but overall the trails are in good repair. I did not see one hiking/biking/equestrian soul out there today. It was nice pretending the whole park belonged to me.
  Ride rating: Intermediate
  abmtnbkr a 33 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a KHS Pro hardtail from Orange,ca

  Posted:07/05/2000

• Trail UpdateGreat Place For Beginners-Just would like to add, bring 2 crisp dollar bills for the machine to park.

  My wife and I are just starting out and stayed mostly on the beginner trails even though a couple of them were steep. The ride was fun namely going down behind the dam. Everyone we went by were very courteous which is a good sign that the bikers that ride through there are leaving a good impression. Lets keep it that way, please.

  For two out of shape old fogies newbie bikers, O squared B, we were able to make it to the basin and back again, on the lower canyon trail. We both really enjoyed it.

  Thanks for the tip
  Ride rating: Novice
  Ride distance: 4 miles Elevation change: slight
  Steve a 43 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Mountain Sport from Stanton

  Posted:03/27/2000

• Trail UpdateClosed At Sunset-Just a friendly reminder that Peters Canyon Regional Park is closed at sunset to all visitors. (Sunset as of the first week in January is around 5:00 p.m.) Night riding at Peters Canyon is not permitted, to provide space for nocturnal wildlife to do their thing uninterrupted by hikers, bikers, etc. The trails of the nearby Cleveland NF are open after dark, so if you’re looking for someplace to ride under the stars, give the USFS office in Corona a call for trailheads and information.

  Any person found in the park after the posted hours of operation (7:00 a.m. to sunset) may be prosecuted (OCCO 2-5-15). This is a misdemeanor, with penalties of up to $1000.00 and/or 6 mos. in jail. A new ordinance passed by the Orange County Board of Supervisors last year allows fines for violations in parks (like Peters Canyon) that are part of the Nature Reserve of Orange County to be doubled. Rangers are patrolling all of the regional parks in the area (Peters Canyon, Santiago Oaks, Irvine, and Weir Canyon) after dark, so don’t chance an expensive night out when there is a legal option just fifteen minutes up Santiago Canyon Road.
  Ranger Mike URL: http://www.oc.ca.gov/pfrd/hbp/index.htm

  Posted:01/03/2000

• Trail UpdatePeter's Canyon-Peter's Canyon is a great place to get a quick ride in, as well as being fairly accessible due to its close proximity to various locales. This may also explain its popularity with not only mountain bikers, but hikers, trail runners, equestrians, dog walkers, and children. The park has numerous narrow singletracks with blind corners , especially around the lake area, that are still open to mountain bikers but are also heavily used by other trail users. Extra caution must be used when negotiating these singletracks, especially when going downhill.

  Yesterday, a friend and I were climbing one of these singletracks around a blind corner. I rang my bell(a good idea in this park as well as others) to warn of our approach. No sooner had I rung the bell when came flying down was an ignorant, fred, Mountain-Dew wanna-be, on a Price Club "MBX", skidding, inconsiderate jerk. Fortunately, the poor sap narrowly avoided me and my friend by carreening off trail and face-planting into the bush.

  Being civil, I asked the poor sap if he was ok. First time I asked, no response. Second time, he rudely and condescendingly responded with "What does it look like?" I calmly explained to Mr. Price Club that he was going to ruin it all for us if he continued to ride like he did. No response. Mr. Price Club rode off into the sunset, no doubt on his way to buy the 3 gallons of pork and beans on special.

  The great majority of trail users in this park are friendly, courteous, and considerate. Let's keep up this image for mountain bikers. It only takes one rider, like Mr. Price Club, to slam into an unsuspecting hiker or other trail user to lead to the ban of mountain biking in this park. Take it easy around the singletracks, there's plenty of other wide open spaces in the park to get your adrenaline fix; be nice and call out to other users, or better yet, use a bell(some weigh in at less than 7 grams); keep the rubber side down and look out for Mr. Price Club.
  Roy a 26 year old Racer riding a Specialized from Orange, CA

  Posted:08/12/1999

• Trail UpdateDave D.-Rode Peter's on Thursday just after the rains here in O.C. (Good job weather forecasters)and the trails were nicely packed and not dusty. Traction everywhere. This park is in great shape and I agree that you must ride early morning or late evening as it can be brutally hot in summer. Singletrack is fun as hell as well as the South/upper ridge. (dont know the name of that trail) Fast and fun. Overall I give this place an A. Not too technical for the advanced rider but a very scenic ride for the enthusiast to enjoy. Check it out. By the way the joggers on this trail are assholes. I said hi to about 10 different people and none bothered to acknowledge my existence. Keep on ridin!
  Singletrack=25% Dirt Road=75%
  David D. a 26 year old Weekend Warrior riding a GT LTS-1 from RSM (OC)

  Posted:07/12/1999

• Trail UpdateJumpin' Jeff-Did the Pater's loop last weekend again. Workers are tearing up the forest on the southeast corner but the singletracks down from the south summit are still fast 'n fun. I must say that this is a fun ride, but can be brutal in the heat of summer.

  Posted:07/02/1999

• Trail UpdateThe Oppossum Trail will be rerouted on October 10 and 11. Willing hands are needed for this project! Call (714) 538-4400 to volunteer, or show up at the park at 8:00 a.m. either (or both) days. Bring leather golves if you have them--tools will be provided.
  Ranger Mike

  Posted:08/23/1998

• Trail UpdateAll of the multiple use trails are open to mountain bikes. The Oppossum Trail is NOT RECOMMENDED due to deep ruts from storm damage. The Oppossum Trail will be rerouted in the fall; call the park office at (714) 538-4400 to lend a hand.
  Ranger Mike

  Posted:07/30/1998

• Trail Update<a Href="http://www.hsis.uci.edu/grega/rides/peters.html">-

  Posted:03/09/1998