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- Thursday, November 21, 2024
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Sullivan Canyon - #SullivanCanyon
Socal - Los Angeles County - Brentwood NickNames: #SullivanCanyon
Sullivan Canyon is accessed a follows. Sunset Blvd. west from 405 Frwy. Right on Mandeville Canyon Rd. , Left on Westridge, Left on Bayliss, take second left. This road should be extremely short and end in a wooden gate across the road. The trail is accessed by walking (or riding) past this gate.
Parking is also a bit of a problem. Parking is restricted during practical riding hours for about a block away. Beyond this parking is allowed. The reason for this restriction is that neighbors complained of unruly Mtn. Bikers. Trash, urine, and other disruptions on their front lawns were not tolerated....wonder why.
The trail is quite literally an access road for the Ca. Gas Co. It gets overgrown, and washed by the rains that in a year or so after being rebuilt, it turns into a practical single track. About 3 years ago before the big rains, it was an awesome trail. It was reviewed highly in Mtn. Bike mags. It is still cool today, but in a few weeks it will be almost like a fire road, with a few single track cutoffs along the way. Thomas Guide page 631
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- Trail UpdateCanyon Open-the canyon is very flat now but there are some side single trac that makes it very nice to ride, to make it even more fun start the decend from mulhlland like 100 feet before you reach sallivan fire road , youll see a yellow post and the trail starts have fun oh yeah be ready for some crazy decend
a 41 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a stumpjumper from laPosted:02/18/2011
- Trail UpdateIt's Open Again....and Different-The Gas Co has opened the trail again. It's now very different--the trail diverges in a number of spots and is generally much wider and flatter. There are also pavers in what used to be difficult sections. These are problematic as if you hit them laterally they can snag a front tire and pitch you. Hit them at an angle and you're good though. Still lovely and shaded, still conveniently located, but far less interesting and less challenging.
priapism a 36 year old Weekend Warrior riding a KonaPosted:01/25/2011
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon Single Track-The Gas Co. is not done destroying the trail. Still closed.
Ron a 50 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Kona from West LAPosted:10/27/2010
- Trail UpdateSully Cyn Closed 28 Aug 2010-Dropped down into the canyon from the feeder trail on Sullivan Ridge fire road. 1/4 of a mile up we came across a Gas Co. crew who told us the entire canyon was closed and we would have to turn back. So back up the feeder trail, we call it The Luge, and we took Sullivan Ridge fire road to dirt Mulholland. Where the two meet there were security gaurds who said the entire canyon will be closed until November. No signs on the feeder trail, hike-a-bike up the luge was a drag.
JerryBOMB a 57 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a GF Superfly 100 from Simi ValleyPosted:08/28/2010
- Trail UpdatePractically Paved-I rode this a few days ago. So much slower than it used to be. Talked to a guy thats been trying to add some jumps and fun stuff, but a few miles into it ( I started at the bottom) the gas company has turned the trail into a road! Making it even more lame than they made it in october. I turned around after a few hundred yards, so I don't know how far up it goes, but this trail is just not worth it anymore.
obmonger
a 41 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Heckler from H-woodPosted:06/06/2010
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon-I rode up Sullivan Canyon last Monday. The Gas Co. is working on the trail again and they closed the trail about 3.5 miles from the bottom. Just when it was getting good.
Ron a 50 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Blue Cross bike from West LAPosted:06/05/2010
- Trail UpdateNature Takes Back Sullivan Cyn-The truck road is essentially impassable now. At the bottom of Queensferry, the creek has cut a channel two feet deep. The stream is running along and across the road for the length of the canyon, cutting deep ruts. About halfway up a landslide has left just enough room to ride across. Farther up there's a fallen tree blocking the road, it looks like riders are blazing a path on either side but it's still pretty rough and there's a lot of brush.
It's nowhere near what it used to be, but it's a hell of a lot more challenging than a couple months ago and there are plenty of water splashes right now.
chromaton a 47 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Giant Rincon from InglewoodPosted:02/17/2010
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon-I rode up and down Sullivan this morning. The single track is gone! The trail is now a wide smooth dirt road all the way to the top with concrete stream crossings, which are 12"X12" concrete blocks linked together with poly rope to resemble a huge keyboard. Overall, it is not any worse than what the gas Co. has done in the past; nothing a few storms couldn't fix. There's still a few bits of the single track here and there and it is still nice and shady. The swing is still there.
Ron a 49 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Old GT Hardtail from West LAPosted:11/15/2009
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon Opening Delayed-Was riding westridge again last saturday. Ran into other local riders in the know who said sullivan won't likey be reopened until more like December.
Bad news.
Dusty Shoes a 40 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Jekyll from Sherman oaksPosted:09/28/2009
- Trail UpdateGas Co. Giving Us The "gas"-From Mullholand access to sullivan canyon closed due to So cal gas co pipeline repairs throughout the canyon. They had a Bobcat tractor down there supposedly destoying all the singletrack. The rent-a-cop at the top said access to sullivan would be closed until at least october.
Dusty Shoes a 40 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Jekyll from Sherman OaksPosted:09/22/2009
- Trail UpdateFun Trail/single Track.-Rode up the fire road and came down the "single track". Very fun, the single track had a little bit of everything. rock garden, technical areas, smooth straight path, a fun in good shape trail. Watch for hikers and cyclist coming up!!!
BigBlue a 34 year oldPosted:03/21/2009
- Trail UpdatePerfect Conditions-Rode up the fire road and down Sullivan. Trail was in great condition after the rains and the weather was also good. Could see Catalina and downtown without any smog-rare as we all know. Nice loop
los5 riding a SC Heckler from Montebello-LA and beyondPosted:12/29/2008
- Trail UpdateWell, rode this last Sunday, lots of survey markers around, no clear word when the work will start, but right now the trail is in perfect condition. Ride it while you can. Could get torn up in a few months or a week for all we know.
maxtheheathen a 24 year oldPosted:12/06/2008
- Trail UpdateThe latest according to MBU patrol last week:
" Met a couple Gas Company employees on our MBU Patrol today, their boss (Over gang that is repairing pipe in Sullivan Canyon) is Ron Silver. The crew run some sensors down the inside of the gas the pipe, found three sections that show corrosion and need to be repaired. They are grading a dirt road from the bottom to bring in vehicles to do the repairs. After they have gone, the first good rain storm will revert the canyon back somewhat the way it was......... "
Someone also said that while all this is happening Sullivan is going to be closed to the hikers, horses and bikes - safety reason.
This is not a rumor. This is going to happen. How soon? Watch for crews, signs, etc. Enjoy the trail now while is still good
Posted:09/24/2008
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon 12-22-07-Our group of four started at Reseda to the Hub, down Backbone, up Sullivan Canyon and back to Reseda. We had a 25 mile loop with clear views of the ocean and the lushness of tree cover in the canyon. Sully trail conditions were great, slightly damp following the rain with lots of big maple leaves on the canyon floor. Only one or two tiny spots with puddles and no water crossings. Get out and ride! Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday's to all.
Jerry Ventura Co BOMB a 54 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Sugar Team Race from Simi ValleyPosted:12/22/2007
- Trail UpdateTis The Season..-to bust out the lights and get your night riding on. Went up and down sully last night. A few new trees downed near the bottom but the trail is as good as ever.
Dirtshark99Posted:09/19/2007
- Trail UpdateSullivan Ridge / Sullivan Canyon-Great short ride. The ride up the ridge is slightly grueling but if you explore a little of the singletracks on the way up to Sullivan Canyon, it adds a bit of fun.
Sullivan Canyon is a neat trail but a little short. Trail is in pretty good condition. I didn't feel like it was a particularly difficult trail. Rocky with a couple drops with nice twists and turns. A few creek crossings and the nice shade added to the ride. This is quite a popular trail though with hikers and bikers so you'll need to watch out on the descent. The beginning descent off of Sullivan Ridge is quite memorable as it is fast, twisty and a solid challenge for a strong beginner / beginner intermediate. Parked on a street off of Sunset Blvd and was about a 13.5 mile ride in total back to the car.
I think it would be a challenging ride back up. Will hvae to try next time.
Anonymous a 21 year old Downhiller riding a '05 Stumpjumper HTPosted:12/03/2005
- Trail UpdateWestridge-Mulli-Sulli Loop-Rode the loop for the first time recently, and I must say I was impressed. Rode up Westrige road through the neighborhood (that last section of pavement is *&#%@$# steep!). Fire road in good shape, epic views due to Santa Ana winds...saw Santa Ana mountains in Orange County, downtown, Palos Verdes, and Catalina on the way up, and the Valley from the Nike missile site. Pedaled down Mullholland and Sullivan Ridge to the canyon turnoff. Sweet, technical singletrack down the canyon with plenty of opportunities to improve my technical game. Nice creek crossings, washouts, twisty trail and a huck or two made the track memorable. Perfect loop for everyday riding if you live in the area, but if you're making a trip to get here, definitely check out Sullivan Ridge-Mullholland-Temescal-Backbone loop...sweet!
The Flying M a Cross-Country Rider riding a Trek Fuel from Los AngelesPosted:11/01/2005
- Trail UpdateJust In Time For Fall...-I used to ride this about 3-4 times a weeks before our winter monsoons...in Feb, I rode down from Sully ridge and wished I had a Kayak.
At that point, I decided to ride it once a month to see if the trail would evolve into a trail again.
It has. It's not the same...as other recent posts have stated...but this trail has been wiped out by rain in the past and over time it always finds a way back.
I rode up to Mully and back down this afternoon...not nearly as many Hike-a-bike sections. It's definitely back ON!
The timing couldn't be better either as anyone who rides this trail will agree...Fall in Sullivan Canyon is absolutely beautiful.
(who says LA doesn't have a Fall)
Surfbu a 35 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Trek Fuel 100 from CaliforniaPosted:09/06/2005
- Trail UpdateKeeps Getting Better-rode down then back up sully last night. There's a new tree down about a mile from the bottom. You'll have to dismount to get under this one. Other than that, the trail just rocks! Kickin' downhill and a fun climb out with a nice stinger to get you out of the cyn.
Dirtshark a 43 year old riding a Landshark / Yeti KokoPosted:09/01/2005
- Trail UpdateThanks...-Thanks monky I will check these out tomarrow if it's not another superhot Thanks agiain for the tips.
Dusty Joints a 37 year old Weekend WarriorPosted:07/24/2005
- Trail UpdateDusty Joints...-you might like the Lower Arroyo Seco trail that starts near JPL- it's shady and has some water crossings. Also, Sycamore Canyon at Pt. Mugu State Park tends to be cooler since it starts at the ocean. There are loads of great rides at Pt. Mugu State Park.
good luck.
-Monkey
MonkeyDigsMTB a 30 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a StumpyPosted:07/18/2005
- Trail UpdateNeed More Like Sully-Rode Sullivan Canyon again yesterday with a buddy and still love this ride. Anyone know other trails similar to this shady serpentine creek crossing singtrack trail? Fireroads althogh good for conditioning and tanning seem a little hot and dusty in the 90's and these canyon tracksre fun for me right now. So If I like sullivan canyon I'll probally love what other trails???? any suggestions Thanks in advance
Dusty Joints a 37 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Mongoose with a blower from Los AngelesPosted:07/18/2005
- Trail UpdateNeed More Like Sully-Rode Sullivan Canyon again yesterday with a buddy and still love this ride. Anyone know other trails similar to this shady serpentine creek crossing singtrack trail? Fireroads althogh good for conditioning and tanning seem a little hot and dusty in the 90's and these canyon tracksre fun for me right now. So If I like sullivan canyon I'll probally love what other trails???? any suggestions Thanks in advance
Dusty Joints a 37 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Mongoose with a blower from Los AngelesPosted:07/18/2005
- Trail UpdateGreat Ride-Went out for a sunday afternoon ride and wanted to avoid the blazing santa monica mountain fireroads so I came to my favorite website ,being a newbie, ageing, stoner,and saw a picture of sullivan canyon posted here. the picture did'nt do it justice. It's a 85% shaded, mostly level, beautiful cruse throgh the canyon. There were some tricky spots that required me to get off the bike, but I used these as excuses to take a breather and further my horticulture studies.(Those who read my Bio will understand). This lush green winding path was great and all the streams kept me feet cool and my bike muddy. thanks for the great tips on this trail that I read here.
Dusty Joints a 37 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Mongoose from LA Posted:07/10/2005
- Trail UpdateLoop Starting At Reseda-From US-101/Reseda exit, go south on Reseda to its end (top of hill). Park just before the 'Fee Area' (unless you have $5). Ride up to the end of the pavement, continue past first yellow gate and up to Mulholland (second yellow gate). Go left (east) and descend to Caballero Saddle, then climb (still east) to top of Sullivan. Descend Sullivan Ridge Road to 'Y' intersection at large flat area. This is Sullivan Canyon. Descend the canyon to the debris dam and exit left, going up a paved access road to Queensferry. This ends shortly at Bayliss. Go left (uphill, north) on Bayliss. Climb steeply for a bit to the end of Bayliss at Westridge Road, then go left again (uphill, north) on Westridge to its end (yellow gate, trailhead sign). Continue up dirt Westridge past the gate and all the way to the Nike Base up at Mulholland. Water is available here. From the Nike Base, go left (west) on Mulholland and return to the top of Reseda.
ALT RTE: Park along Reseda at the Caballero Canyon trailhead (opposite Braemar Club) just before Reseda climbs steeply. Ride up the Caballero Trail to Mulholland, then go left (east) to Sullivan, follow directions above, but return down Caballero rather than top of Reseda.
RE Sullivan Ridge return: The 'singletrack' mentioned below (Post #85) is the Squirrell Cage (AKA Goat Trail), and is quite steep and rutted and chewed, so is usually a walk-up, IF you can find it. Currently, I could not find the point in Sullivan Canyon where this trail meets Sullivan Canyon. The floods or the graders wiped it out. Also, once you get on Sullivan Ridge, it's a bit more sustained steep climbing than Westridge.
RE Sullivan Canyon return: The comments I got from folks climbing ran something like "It's become a lot more work in this direction!"
Lastly, they've begun grading - the lower part is all smoothed out near the debris dam. Won't be long before they finish the job (the whole canyon) and it'll be easy both directions but far less interesting.
Lazarus LongPosted:04/27/2005
- Trail UpdateFrom the Valley, I think is better to do an out-and-back. Although, last time I was there, about a month ago, it was really tore up and hard to climb because of all the water rushing down and the fact that there was no 'trail'. You can loop it by coming back up Sullivan Ridge Fire Road. Follow the directions above. Or about half a mile before you get to the fence at the end of the canyon, there's a single track going up on the west side of the canyon that will hook you up to the fire road back to where you began your descend. This single track trail is about a half mile long, but really steep in places.
Ernman a 40 year old Weekend Warrior riding a GIANT Reign 2 from Burbank, CAPosted:04/27/2005
- Trail UpdateQuestion-How would I descend from the valley side?
a 36 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Kona from NorthrigePosted:04/27/2005
- Trail UpdateLots Of Fun-A friend and I rode this Saturday morning and right now with the great weather we have had for the past week it is in great shape. The gas company has been working on the first 1/2 mile or so but once past that there are some good portions of single track and some great stream crossings. Ran into several other riders on the trail and several other people out walking their dogs. Its pretty easy to see people ahead but be careful on a few corners to avoid running into anyone. Look for rocks lined up across the trail to signal a turn that you need to take to avoid the washouts and some drop offs. This trail is a great place to work on technical skills esepcially with the recent rain effects so I woulnd't recommend it to someone who doesn't know their bike and isn't at least an intermediate rider. Bring an extra tube as there are plenty of rocks and risk of pinch flats.
Ride rating: Intermediate
dpierson a 27 year old Weekend Warrior riding a '97 Diamond Back Z-Tech 4.1 from Los Angeles, CAPosted:04/05/2005
- Trail UpdateSullivan Cyn-I agree that this trail is a lot of fun right now, but be warned that the stream is pretty active and you will get very wet. There are some fun drops and other twists. You will be doing some hike a bike as well. I would say that intermediate skills at minimum are necessary for this trail. There were many points where it may not be clear which way to go, but follow the stream down and you will be fine. Right now Sullivan is more fun than its been in years. You also get to actually see the gas pipeline. It is really amazing to see the power of erosion in progress. Enjoy this ride while you can.
DaveGPosted:03/26/2005
- Trail UpdateGet It While It's Good.-The Gas Company crews and dozers have worked their way up to the bottom of Goat Trail (Squirrel Cage). Not sure how fast their going to progress past there but if you want to see the "rain effect" on the canyon you should get up there soon. Water is still running but only enough to get your feet wet. Lots of fun!
Black BartPosted:03/26/2005
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon-I rode the canyon 3-18-05. It is 95%+ rideable with only a couple spots that you must lift your bike up out of a ditch to get back on the trail.It is an absolute blast with many stream crossings, log crossings etc. Good bike skills are a must. Not recommended for a begginer.
You only have a few more weeks to enjoy all of the challenges created by the recent rains. I spoke with the Gas Co. person surveying the rain damage and asked what their plan was for the canyon. His reply was that they would be running a bulldozer up the canyon to cover up the gas line. He further stated that he personally has been working in this canyon for the last 20 years and that they will try to minimize the impact this will have on the trail but the gas line has to be covered.
Ride rating: Advanced
Singletrack=90%
labikewarrior a 38 year old Weekend Warrior riding a 04 Specialized Enduro from LA, CAPosted:03/20/2005
- Trail UpdateWet As Of 3-18-05-We thought that Sullivan Cyn would have dried out by now and were trying to beat the rains this weekend. But the trail has become a stream bed and unless you have awesome brakes that work when wet, not a fun ride. We did 10 minutes hoping the streams weren't going to widen but they did. City's truck were out there trying to move around dirt and sand and deal with erosion. Should be a good summer, though.
Posted:03/19/2005
- Trail UpdateSullivan Cyn-Rode this trail 3-11-05. (Well, to be honest my new tire blew in the first 3 seconds, so I actually walked it!!!) Two hours later, probably 10+ stream crossings and a couple of hike a bike's later, I made it to the end. With the exception of a couple of hike a bike's, you can ride the whole thing. I came back on 03-13-05 with a new, new tire, and just did some tire pressure testing on steeper first parts (probably the first 100-200 yards)of the trail. Just after the first "switchbach" there is a wire gate off to either side of the trail that doesn't seem to serve any purpose. If you come out of there at full speed try and stay to the RIGHT because there is a nice rain gouge to the left of center about 10-20 yards beyond the gate! If you get sucked left, and you go out of control, it might be nice to know that the shrubbery off to the side is nice and cushy!!!
Ride rating: Intermediate
Singletrack=100%
SunShade a 27 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Epic S-Works from LAPosted:03/16/2005
- Trail UpdateSullivan Cyn.-We did Sulivan for the first time since the big storms. Many thanks to the people that put up sticks and logs at the nasty drop-offs. The water is nice and warm and it was pretty darn fun and really amazing at how it's changed. Expect to walk quite a bit. Theres quite a bit of heave-hoing your bike up sidewalls too. Bring a change of clothes and a towel in your car. Be sure to do it before they bring the bulldozers in to cover the gas pipes. It'll take years of storms to get it back to how most normal mtn. bikers want it by the time the dozers are done.
Dirtmistress a 4o's year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Santa Cruz sl from L.A.Posted:03/06/2005
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon-
Sulli Canyon to Mullholand Dirt Road is about 6 miles out. So the out-and-back would be 12. For a ~22miler of gentle climbing start up Westridge the down Sullivan in a "horse-shoe" connected by Mullholand and then turn around and ride it back. This is about the easiest 20+miler.
FoeJay a 29 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Foes FXR from LAPosted:02/24/2005
- Trail UpdateQuestion--can anyone tell me how many miles it takes for a loop on this trail? from the start to mulholland and back? thankz-
Ride distance: ? Elevation change:
Posted:02/20/2005
- Trail UpdateRode DOWN with 3 friends on 1-23-05. Was so much fun, we did it twice!! One walking section but it was clearly marked. Many water crossings and you will get wet.
Posted:02/04/2005
- Trail UpdateSullivan Trail Or Canyon-I rode down this singletrack trail 2 days after the heavy rains earlier this month (around 01-12-05). Just as I finished the initial highspeed part and stated making the sharp righthander that leads to the rest of the trail, I noticed an angry flood of water running in the usually dry stream bed. It was actually raging. There is a storm drain that runs under the trail at this sharp right hander, but it was channelling water beyond it's capacity and water was going over across the trail. As I continued on the forceful stream began zigging as the single track zagged, washing parts of it away. (The 3 below reviews describe it very well so I won't do it here). Eventually the stream spread out so wide that the entire valley was a rapid flowing stream, deeper in some areas and shallower in others. My initial thoughts of "just don't put your foot down" as I did my first "shallow" stream crossing later turned to "I'm glad I brought a change of clothes". The deepest the water got was waste high when I had no choice but to take the leap of faith and jump down into the black hole of a waterfall which was created by the stream flowing over a thick log and down a drop. The last half of the ride was pedalling down stream with a foot going under water with each turn of the crank.
****UPDATE*****
I rode this trail a few days later (approximately 01-17-05) and a vast majority of the water has flowed away. There are still some sections where you have to hike a bike. Definatley rideable now though. This trail used to take +/- 15 minutes to ride down. Expect twice that now. Feel free to email me with any questions... I ride this trail regularly (except that my bike is in the shop right now with sticky brakes)
Singletrack=30% Dirt Road=69% Paved Path=1%
a 27 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Epic S-works from Los AngelesPosted:02/01/2005
- Trail UpdateGoin Up Sullivan-Recently dropped into Sullivan from the Squirrel Trail, man was I surprised, I've never seen that much water going through there. I kept heading up towards Sullivan fireroad, there were a lot of riders coming down and groups of hikers, 1 group all had thigh high rubber boots. It was a blast, some places have been cut up so much I had to lean my bike and climb it to be able to reach up to the old trail level. By the time I got up to Sullivan fireroad I couldn't feel anything from just below my knees down, that water was cold. Usually I take the Dragon back down, this was the first time I came down on the fireroad in many years. All in all I had a blast.
Woren Knobbs riding a Balance wit over 60k miles from LA by MDRPosted:01/26/2005
- Trail UpdateHowdy,
I've never posted an update on this site before, I'll try to be as thorough as possible. I went down this trail Sunday, 1-16-05 and thought I would list current conditions. Everything the previous poster stated is accurate, although the water level has lessened some since then. Nevertheless, there is still an honest to god running stream going down the canyon like I haven't seen in eight years. Descending the canyon from entrance at Sullivan Ridge everything looks the same except rougher and rockier and with a few mudslides from the adjacent hillsides. When you make the hard right hand turn into the canyon proper however things get much hairier. There are many deep ruts running through the trail until you get to the felled oak tree that came down earlier this autumn. Here is the first of many dismounts and scrambles down steep embankments. The oak tree is still there, but the rest of the trail/streambed is roughly six to nine feet lower than where it was before the rains started, and in many places the gas pipeline that was buried in the canyon is completely exposed. You basically follow the streambed now, and occasionally you can reconnect with the remnants of the trail. The only problem is that those remnants can sometimes leave you stranded, suspended above the canyon floor with an eight foot dropoff back down the the streambed. The main word of advice here is to be careful, don't ride beyond your ability to brake quickly, and keep your eyes peeled. The good news is that you can already see where the new trail is beginning to emerge. The canyon floor is now three to four times wider than it was before, and much of the foliage and trees have been stripped away by flooding. There are about a dozen or so fallen trees so there's frequent dismounting to portage your bike over/under logs etc. There have already been some chainsaw crews through the canyon, but there's still fallen trees blocking the way from time to time. Follow the bike tracks however and you should be able to thread your way down, most riders thus far have found the path of least resistance, and I suspect the water flow will continue to ebb as it stays dry, leaving a more clearly delineated trail. There is still a ton of water in the canyon though, and even though you can't kayak down it, you will still get soaking wet and have water up to your hubs and above your bottom bracket from riding through the middle of the stream for the great majority of the trail. From time to time you can see and rejoin the old trail, but it's only worthwhile if the trail actually goes somewhere and doesn't just end in nothingness 50 ft. down the line. If riders will mark the contiguous trail sections with rock markers then it will certainly speed up the recovery of this trail to completely rideable again. I can also recommend that you not try riding around in the catch basin in the bottom of the canyon below where the fence used to be. I went exploring and rode my bike into what I thought was a wide mud puddle but in fact was a brackinsh, leaf, twig, mud and bark saturated pool that was six feet deep and had me dog paddling for terra firma. Unless of course you dig that sort of thing in which case, Geronimo. I thoroughly recommend you ride the canyon in its current watery condition, it's been many a year since it's been like this and Lord only knows when you'll get an opportunity to see it like this again. Best...
Ride rating: Advanced
Ride distance: 4.3 miles Elevation change: 1150 ft
Singletrack=100%
Crankarm a 33 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Santa Cruz Superlight from Los AngelesPosted:01/20/2005
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon-rode down Sully on Wedneday, took about 2 hours.
I have done this trail a hundred times. I thought it
was amazing because the first section had a few
mud slides that were passible but made it more
fun. Then I got to the cement section. With the
river flowing to my right and the mudslides to my
left, it started to get dangerous. This trail then
vanished. Rode in the water at times up to my
headset, 30 trees down at least, two sections I had
to climb over trees. Some times I could see the
trail to my left so I would get to it and find dry land
only to come to a dead end about 8 feet high.
There is water pouring out of the hillsides on either
side. At times I would just sit on my bike and the
current would take me without pedaling. There is
a section that I always liked to hang out and eat a
bar where it was flat with a canopy of trees with
white bark, all gone, every tree came down. I kept
looking up in my journey and it is sad because you
can always see sky now. I got to the bottom at
Queensferry and there was the section with the
man made ledge that people were jumping off
(when it was dry) all gone including most of the
chainlink fence. My friend and I were talking
yesterday about taking a kayack down there but
who would want to hike it up, it could be done
Adam a 35 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Turner 5spot from EncinoPosted:01/14/2005
- Trail UpdateThe singletrack off to the right (near the bottom,going down), is a short cut to Sullivan Ridge fire road, but it turns into a hike-a-bike 'bout halfway up.
Nice if you just want to make a short loop of the canyon without pedaling all the way up Westridge to the Nike radar installation, left across dirt Mulholland, then left again down Sullivan Ridge fire road.
That little trail by the concrete wash that heads off straight is so overgrown, I doubt it leads anywhere (maybe dirt Mulholland).
Ride rating: Intermediate
from McKinleyville, CAPosted:09/12/2004
- Trail UpdateAlways A Great Ride-Rode down and back up Sullivan Canyon this morning for the first time in at least 3 years and was pleasantly suprised. The trail is in great shape and it's virtually all single track again. Quite a few hikers and bikers on the trail though. But still, it was a great ride.
When you're climbing up the canyon, and you come to that concrete wash area before the steep climb...instead of going left up the hill (switchback), there's a little trail that keeps heading straight. Does anyone know where that takes you?There's also a trail heading off the right side (when heading downhill) of the canyon trail about 1/2 mile or so from the bottom. Anyone?
Singletrack=90%
Jerbae a 35 year old from CalabasasPosted:09/12/2004
- Trail UpdateChallenging And Fun-One good thing about this trail is that is different every season. Just when you thought you had it figured out... it changed.
The last rains washed out the old trail and created new fun and challenging sections.
I start from the opposite end of the directions in the description by riding up Westridge to the fire road and up to the Nike station. This is a good warm-up. From there, hang a left and go to the second yellow gate on the left. There's usually some people at the gate on weekends. Ride past the gate about half a mile, hang a sharp left and the fun begins. The whole thing is about 2 - 3 miles long (I guess)
There's something for everybody. The first part is a moderately steep single track, rocky at times. Anybody can do it at their own pace. Watch out for incoming traffic in the form of horses, hikers or other bikers. It's never too crowded though. The rest of the ride is always slightly downhill. As of 4-24-04 there's still some water crossings which are really fun. Other sections have rocks, gravel, sand you name it.
Really fun. A must do if in the area.
Ride rating: Intermediate
Singletrack=90%
a Weekend Warrior from Redondo BeachPosted:04/27/2004
- Trail UpdateA Brand New Ride-If you've been avoiding sullivan because it seemed boring, the
recent rains have made this trail fun again. Most of the old trail is
washed away, but the river bed is very rideable and only one or
two of the washouts require getting off the bike. It will
change again as it gets more traffic, so try it now for some fun.
Ride rating: Intermediate
Singletrack=100%
LCS a 35 year old from LAPosted:02/29/2004
- Trail UpdateAwesome Shape!!!-rode sullivan canyon for the first time on saturday and man it was sweet!!!!! its in amazing shape, its goregous to ride with all the orange leaves on the ground bordering the trail, and everyone we met was hella cool! cant wait to hit it again this weekend! cant believe such a wonderful and fun trail was right under my nose all these years! we always do reseda and all its different routes but had never gone the extra bit up to sulli! the only bummer of the day was climbing back up westridge, that pretty much sucked...crazy steep street to a nasty fire road climb, next time were just gonna ride back up the single track i think...anyhow, have fun, and keep the rubber side down.....
Ride rating: Intermediate
Ride distance: 12 or15 miles(?) Elevation change: alot!!!
Singletrack=30% Dirt Road=50% Paved Path=20%
Bill Meadows a 30 year old Weekend Warrior riding a tek liquid(or fuel...) from van nuysPosted:01/19/2004
- Trail UpdateGreat Conditions-The downed tree mentioned in the previous post has been removed. There are still a lot of downed trees but nothing you can't ride around. For a good loop my group parked just off Bayliss St and road up to the Westridge Fire Road trail head. Its a 1 mile grind on the pavement but it's worth it. Take the fire road to the NIKE station, go west on Dirt Mulholand to Fire Road 26(Sullivan Ridge). Take the first fork off to the left(easy to miss if you are not looking)and it takes you to Sulli Canyon and your car on Bayliss. I know almost everyone knows this route but I thought I would post it for those who are new to the area. Its about an 11 mile loop counting the pavement ride. Anyway, Sullivan Canyon is in great condition. Today was my first ride through it and it was great. Being New Years day it was very busy but even the hot shots bombing down the single track where very considerate as they went by my wife who is a beginner(thanks guys). The only hazards I spotted other than the crowded trails were some downed trees and some nasty ruts(sinkholes?). Watch for those and you will be OK.
Ride rating: Novice
Ride distance: 10.8 miles Elevation change: 1800
Singletrack=55% Dirt Road=45%
Mrkcy a 27 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Giant-Iguana from Temple CityPosted:01/01/2004
- Trail UpdateNew Tree Down...-about 150 yds. up from the oak thats been down. The oak, you could ride under, but, it'd take one bad@ss bunnyhop to keep from having to dismount on this one.
It's totally dry now, and very fast. Watch for hikers, and people riding up! Please be courteous.
Vick a 35 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Kona from Culver CityPosted:09/07/2003
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon-Got up there around 7:15 am last Friday. Mostly dry but hit a couple of wet spots. The shade helped the coolness to hold for a little while.
Ride rating: Intermediate
Pat Hachiya a 30 year old Weekend Warrior from El Segundo, CAPosted:08/19/2003
- Trail UpdateLotta H20-Anyone who rides sullivan canyon knows most of the trail is really easy and fun. There is usually only one water hazard. well after winter rains, i went riding last weekend there and there were about 10-12 water crossings which made for a much more fun ride than normal and made the ride more challenging in a lot of sections. i felt like a little kid jumping creeks and getting soaked. get wet before summer dries up the canyon!
Posted:04/10/2003
- Trail UpdateWestridge-Nike-Sullivan Canyon-It's starting to change
:Maria and I felt like the luckiest folks in town, getting 23 miles in before the storm. Same ride as my previous update, however the downed oak is closer to the bottom end of the canyon than previously perceived. My dyslexia?? And, it is starting to be a real ride again with the lines coming and going as you choose. After tonight's rain it should be un-recognizable
Ride rating: Novice
Ride distance: see below Elevation change: but FASTER!!!
ChainSawPosted:12/19/2002
- Trail UpdateWestridge-Nike-Sullivan Canyon-The rain was absorbed instantly for the most part. For the amount of rain we had, this is the least change in the surface terrain I have seen in decades. A few small easily avoided mud bogs on the fire break single track. [insert sarcasm]And, the deep ruts that some folks left behind by obviously riding during the rain were really appreciated, as they are already hardening and, since it is soooo easy to get lost up there, they may be there for quite some time to mark our way.[/end sarcasm] The trails stick like asphalt for the most part - fast and fun.
Sullivan becomes noticeably prettier after a rain; a subtle but nice difference. There is one oak down and if your attention was really diverted, while sitting/standing high on your bike, you might prove Darwin a winner;-) It's towards the northern end, easily ridden under and kinda' cool. The bottom is a tiny bit more "natural". There were lots of bikes and tons of hikers with families. I used my bell liberally and folks LOVE that thing. I was greeted like a cash heavy grandparent by the hikers. The only bad vibes I got today were from people hiking up the westridge fire-road as I came up behind them at a terrorizing speed of four miles an hour, smiled and said howdy as I slogged by. There was also one cat just coming down on bike from the nike base with a little armor who made a face as if my greeting was a bad odor. The weather was perfect though and the unexpected friendliness (brought on by bell intoxication) of the hikers at the base of Sully won the mood hands down - great cruise.
Ride rating: Novice
Ride distance: 23 roundtrip out the door Elevation change: 2,000
Singletrack=20% Dirt Road=30% Paved Path=40% Truck Trail=10%
ChainSawPosted:11/10/2002
- Trail UpdateWatch Out For Bikes Coming Down-
I really enjoy this trail when I am in the mood for
easy ride. You are climbing, but is so gradual that
you won't really notice it unless you are pushing a
big gear.This is a multi use trail and at times does feel
crowded because:
- it's very popular
- it gets's narrow at some pointsWARNING: Watch out for bikers descending. This trail
is misleading and the descents can get blazingly fast.
Often times, bikers coming down have come close to
crashing into me as I am climbing. The trail's
ride-able width is very narrow in some sections and
this is where you have to pay attention or risk
getting mow'd down by the Team Helens as they come
down in numbers.The trail is gravel infested, so just follow the
smooth line that's been carved out by all the bikers.
Ride rating: Intermediate
Santa Cruzer a Cross-Country Rider riding a Santa Cruz SuperlightPosted:07/29/2002
- Trail UpdateWildlife-This is an addition to the previous review.
I forgot to mention that I saw 2 deer in the canyon.
There were drinking water from the tiny mostly dry creek that runs parallel to the gas co service road.It's nice to see deer in the middle of west LA.
Posted:05/13/2002
- Trail UpdateTrees And An Old Cold War Relic-This is a good ride for any westside rider.
There are several rides you can take in the Sullivan Canyon area.
My favorite is starting at the Queensferry Rd trailhead.
This starts you in what is actually Sullivan Canyon itself. This is the gas company service road that everyone writes about. The ride in is full of green trees and shrubs. Very un-L.A. actually.Ride til this road ends and turns itself up a steep singletrack climb.
At the top you will reach Sullivan Ridge Fireroad.
From here I make a right heading north towards Dirt Mulholland.At Dirt Mulholland I make a right heading east.
You will then come upon the old Nike Missile Radar site. Enter through the gates and you are now in San Vincente Mtn Park. This is a nice reststop with water fountains and real public rest room facilities. You can take a quick tour of the old radar site and read the signs and info posted.
Then head down towards the end of the park and continue south on the fireroad. This fireroad is mostly a fast down hill ride that will dump you out onto a street called Westridge. Westridge will take you bake to Bayliss and Queensferry and this completes our loop.
This loop is good for riders who suck at climbing, LIKE ME! The ascent in via the canyon is gradual.
Ride rating: Intermediate
Singletrack=10% Dirt Road=40% Truck Trail=40%Posted:05/13/2002
- Trail UpdateLot's Green Trees-I have been riding up in Sullivan Canyon for the past month. This one of my favorite West Los Angeles rides.
Lost of green trees that form cooling canopies. This is hard to find on many LA trails because most are surrounded by low growing dry shrub. But not Sullivan Canyon! I posted a couple of photos in the photo gallery section of this site under Rides/Trails Gallery:
http://gallery.consumerreview.com/mtbr/gallery/files/P1010017(1).asp
http://gallery.consumerreview.com/mtbr/gallery/files/P1010019(3).asp
It's not a very technical trail. The only factors that make this an intermediate level ride instead of a beginner level ride are:
1) Lot's of loose gravel. This is gravel-paved service road. Most of the trail has a gravel free single track that has been carved over time by bikes and hikers. But there are some sections where traction can get funky.
2) It's a gradual climb up. Althought gradual, it will give a beginner quite the cardio workout. It's so gradual that you don't realize it immediately... But give it about 20 mins and you'll feel if you are a weak climber like myself.Other than that, it's a fun easy ride. The ride back down is pure fun because it's mostly downhill.
There are several stream crossings, but they are tiny because of the seasons we've had here.
This is a popular trail for hikers and dog walkers, so please be courteous on your descent. I have never seen a horse while riding, but have seen it's "by products" dotting the trail.
In terms of parking, you have to read the various signs. Because of past problems, parking is now limited.
Ride rating: Intermediate
SledgeFootPosted:04/29/2002
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon-This trail is in excellent condition. The ride up is a workout for beginners (like me) but nothing too difficult. The ride back is AWESOME! It's down hill almost the entire way. You almost feel guilty that you didn't have to work that hard to enjoy such an amazing ride. The only part of this ride that's a bummer is getting back to your car. The trail dumps you out in this neighborhood of twisty turny roads and the only people you can ask for directions are gardeners, but they don't speak English. I rode an extra 3 miles just trying to get back to the trail head and to my car.
Mike a 37 year old Weekend Warrior riding a KONA- Out of Bounds- STUFF from Los Angeles, CAPosted:02/05/2002
- Trail UpdateSullivan Cyn.-The work recently done in Sullivan cyn. changed about 5% of the trail. It could have been a lot worse. By the end of the winter it will probably be all single track.
Ride rating: Novice
Ride distance: 28miles Elevation change:
Singletrack=25% Dirt Road=50% Paved Path=25%
xtrchris a 49 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a cannondale V2000 from Santa ClaritaPosted:10/14/2001
- Trail UpdateEdison Returns-Rode yesterday. Edison was in the process of finishing their "work". Trail has been graded again. No S/T. No ruts. No water bars. No water. Suckage....
Ride rating: Beginner
Ride distance: 8 miles Elevation change: 0
Dirt Road=100%
SurlyTrade a 26 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Sugar from PasadenaPosted:10/11/2001
- Trail UpdateSullivan Cyn-Trail is almost dry, but that does not make it any less of a great ride. Coming down is like a roller coaster, lots of exposed rocks. Going up makes your heart rate sore to your max. No serious obstacle, but one day I'll be brave to cross the tree in the trail without getting off my bike. Be sure to bring plenty of water because this summer is going to be HOT !!! Happy Trails.
M. Brenes a 31 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Poor man's bike Supergo Access from Hawthorne,CAPosted:06/25/2001
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon-Maria and I beat the pavement from Santa Monica to Mandeville, Left on Chalon and right on Westridge to the fire road, left on Mulholland, left at the Sullivan Ridge gate to the baby Oak tree, put a little water on it, and dropped into the Cyn. Sullivan is still looking great! Bush Monkeys are in rare and copious form, as well as the Poison Oak;-?) The “cross overs” at the stream crossings are in better and faster form, unfortunately, dryer as well (splashing was refreshing). Plenty of hikers on their Sunday outing at the bottom and even though some didn’t want to, most smiled. We were in the Cyn. around 5:30pm and the light was terrific and gave the plant life a particular glow; this effect should remain throughout June. A great pre NBA ride!! Later - Gus
Ride rating: Intermediate
Ride distance: 22 miles Elevation change: approx 2,000
Singletrack=24% Dirt Road=26% Paved Path=50%
GusitarPosted:06/04/2001
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon-The air is definitely cleaner going west again, and swooping back around the Sullivan Cyn top gate seems like a welcome invite. Hands free now while still cranking and stretching the back while acting like a bird with my arms outstretched and feeling the breeze. What scorched uphill, feels great behind downhill mo. No time to water the tree at the left turn down to Sullivan Canyon, and everything still feels precise. Haven’t been down this for about 9 months and didn’t realize how smooth and fast it is now when I rode it upward about 5 months ago. Don’t know if it is just the new bike; it looks smoother too. Hope they haven’t plowed it since the rains, I would hate to have missed that. A little faster, hammer a few strokes, start to get a little air and need to gather a little impulse control. Feather the rear, then front and control returns with almost zero dust. I don’t know what these Machine Tech levers do to the XTR’s but these break levers are like butter and feel like they have a million degrees of pressure to choose from. Got the speed under control just in time to catch a visual of exactly what DaBreeze told me about awhile ago after he and a bud tore down Sullivan. The last time I rode the Canyon upward or down it was a completely different, predictable and boring but pretty beast. The canyon or, more accurately, drying river bed is all about options and choices now. Life, death, fast, screaming, high, low, slow, studied, free, what now, oh-that’s right, wait a sec, oh my- - god, whew!, this is HOT, YIKES and last but not least, where the f*ck have I been! Better than Disney Land when I was nine!! Way better. No pictures were shot. Guess why. With wet shoes, mud on the face and more energy than when the ride started, I emerged to Bayliss with a well earned grin and a skipping chain with no more ride, but the pavement home, to ruin. Perfect timing and a perfect day. “Hey Gus, wanna’ go again??” ;-?)Ride Date was 04-25-01
Ride rating: Intermediate
Gusitar a Die-hard Enthusiast from Santa Monica / Brentwood URL: Story at So Cal BBPosted:05/01/2001
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon-Growing up in Colorado you get bombarded with propoganda listing Californians as the scum of the earth (just a notch above Texans and Jersey folk). Californians get blamed for all of Colorado's growth woes and so, California itself gets painted as this plastic, lifeless, concrete jungle. I'm glad to say that is such B.S.. Cali rips. Granted, I moved here only 5 months ago, but it didn't take long to dispell of any prejudices I regrettably had. Sullivan Canyon is a ride that reinforces my notion that Californians are on the right track towards striking that perfect but precarious balance between economy and ecology. In the midst of an upscale neighborhood lies this hidden hamlet of a trail with beautiful, lush foliage that graduates into a nice, sorta-singletrack trail with a climb that definately opens the pulmones. I rode the trail for the first time last night at 7pm. The view from the top was exquisite. I saw probably 7 other night riders and, for the most part, everyone was cool. The trail is in great shape considering where it was built. We're lucky to have trails like this so close to a city. Let's work our asses off to retain access and maintain good conditions. And one last thing, Niteriders should always say hey to other Niteriders. For that matter, everyone should be cool to everyone. Its not that hard. Thanks for sharing your trails.
Rick Margolin a 24 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Cannonbail Delta V1000 from Playa Del Rey, CAPosted:04/18/2001
- Trail UpdateSullivan/Kenter Loop-My Santa Monica buddy had been saying Sullivan was looking good since the rains a few weeks ago so I had to do my Bi-annual venture down that way. One thing about us Conejo Valley residents is we get spoiled by all the great trails in our backyard and sometimes miss out on riding some of the best of LA county's westside. I can confirm Sullivan is a lot of fun now. The water is still running and there are plenty of creek crosings especially in the first half of the trail. A few spots along the creek are kind of narrow--gives you a chance to test your balancing skills.Once up top we headed over to Mulholland and east toward the Kenter area. On the way are some fun singletracks off to the side of the main fireroad. Finally we made it to whoop de do heaven, aka the Kenter bumps. What a blast going through these whoops as they are in great shape. You can get some serious air.Enjoy.
Ride rating: Intermediate
Ride distance: 16miles Elevation change: 1500'
Singletrack=40% Dirt Road=40% Paved Path=20%
Dan from T.O. a Die-hard Enthusiast riding a GIANT from Thousand OaksPosted:04/15/2001
- Trail UpdateSULLI CANYON-Rode over this last weekend, water level down from any recent rains. Trail in great shape, though. Not washed out. For a great wet time, ride Sulli and bring a pair of dry socks for when you are done.
Posted:03/26/2001
- Trail UpdateSullivan River-When I started riding in Socal in fall 1997, Sulli Canyon was narrow, snaking bomb-ass singletrack. A couple of dry creek crossings, a few jumps, short climbs and insanely fast downhills. Great stuff that everyone here knows about.
El Nino came and tore the crapheesh out of the place- there were 5-foot drop offs where the creek had cut square across the trail. Winter riding in early 1998 afforded more creek crossings than trail crossings. In their infinite wisdom, the Gas Company decided that the canyon was too unsightly to be left alone, so they McAdamized the whole thing- the only thing missing was a curb and parking meters.
The canyon had remained in that immasculated form until very recently. Sir Bottoms, Sir Asada and myself all experienced the raging river first hand last night. There is very little solid ground to ride on right now- it is a goulash of waterlogged sand and rock. Come springtime this place should have a brand-new look. A few determined riders get to carve the path of the new and improved 2001 Sulli Canyon. I plan to be one of them.
I highly reccomend NOT attemtpting to climb Sullivan Canyon until the rains subside. Quite the exercise in frustration.
Be the ball.
El SantoPosted:03/02/2001
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon WASHED OUT-From the gate, Westridge is still in good shape after the heavy rains we have recently experienced. I took Westridge to Dirt Mullhuland, then down Sullivan Canyon this morning. The small stream at the bottom of Sullivan Canyon has turned into a raging river. The river has washed out more than 50% of the trail once you get into the bottom of the canyon. I rode for almost 4 miles in the overgrown stream. I do not recommend Sullivan Canyon unless you want to get very wet navigating the unseen rocks on the bottom of the brown colored river. The loose rocks make it difficult to get much traction. If you are in for a wet and wild ride, then head down Sullivan Canyon, but be prepared for a hidden rocks to dismount you from your bike and set you nicely in the stream.
Ride rating: Advanced
Ride distance: 10.3 miles Elevation change: 1200
Singletrack=50% Dirt Road=40% Paved Path=10%
a 21 year old Weekend Warrior riding a 2001 Giant XTC NRS 3 from Los Angeles, CAPosted:03/01/2001
- Trail UpdateSullivan Cyn-Sullivan Canyon is back! Due to the rains, huge washouts and ruts have turned the fireroad back to a singletrack. Conditions were primo and the weather was perfect.
Ride rating: Novice
Ride distance: 35.5 Elevation change:
Singletrack=35% Dirt Road=65%
xtrchris from Santa Clarita a 48 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Cannondale v-2000 from Santa ClaritaPosted:02/05/2001
- Trail UpdateSullivan Ridge-Did it two weeks ago, past Camp Jospeho trail get s dusty with a liberal smattering of rocks etc, some nasty ruts from the same line being ridden all the time, met two joggers from SF Valley, looking for the beach!!!, the coke machine in the park had coke!!!, flew down the otherside back to Sunset, just before the sunset, magical time then the temp fell through the floor, brr, big ringed it all the way home.
Ride rating: Intermediate
Ride distance: 18 miles Elevation change: 1400
Dirt Road=80% Paved Path=20%
Stuart B a 33 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Stumpy hardtail from From cold,wet and dark London UK all the way to Sunny, dry and warm LAPosted:12/14/2000
- Trail UpdateSullivan Cyn Ridge-All I can say right now is BITCHIN!!!!!!! You have to take the ridge route for some single track fun. Reached the trail head at the top of Sullivan Canyon from Mulholland. Droped down to the ridge and found some amazing single tracks that parallel the ridge trail. Great up hills with some fantastic dropouts back to the main trail. Got some "SERIOUS AIR" off a couple. We then followed the main trail 2 clicks shy of Brentwood. Turned around and had a great workout going north on Sullivan Cyn Ridge. You Westside People have a great climb ti Nike..... Good luck up there.
Singletrack=15% Dirt Road=85%
Bonzai a 32 year old Weekend Warrior riding a SPECIALIZED ROCK HOPPER from WEST HILLSPosted:08/14/2000
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon-Wow! What a difference! I rode up the ridge last Saturday and it was dry, dusty, and hot. It was great this morning with help of some light rain and low fog. Ride was great and trail condition was excellent. Watch out for sharp rocks and have fun out there.
Shah a Weekend Warrior riding a Specialized - Rock Hopper from Santa MonicaPosted:06/17/2000
- Trail UpdateNine Patches Later!!-Well, this morning I decided to try the loop of Mr. Dusty Bottoms. This loop for me was up Sullivan Cyn down the front of Widowmaker over to Rogers Road Trail, down into Rustic Cyn. and finally dropping back into Sullivan.
I was out the door and on the trail early, and I do mean early, as in 5:45am. Whoa!! back up, maybe I should of called this ride, THE CURSE OF THE COYOTE. Because as I rounded the second turn of Sulllivan Cyn. I spotted a stray coyote. He saw me and strarted to run in front of me about 100 yards away. I followed him for maybe a tenth of a mile before he turned off into the brush. At this time I thought to myself, "Is this an omen/curse or did I see something special and this ride is going to be one of the best for me?" Anyway, up Sullivan to the front of Widowmaker and over to Rogers.
When I reached Rogers I stopped to lower my seat and get a drink. I remounted and dropped into Rogers. I was kicking ass. The trail is so overgrown, I loved it. As I was coming down the first big hill, the curse of the coyote bit me. Here's a side note. This early in the morning, when no one has been on the trail yet...there are tons of spider webs crossing the trail. So as I was going down the hill, I was doing about 19/20 mph at the bottom when I went to wipe some webs from my face. I don't know which rocks caused me to get a flat. But I flat I got. (I told myself the night before I should've picked up a new tube.) There I was a flat rear tire and my patch kit with plenty of patches. 9 to be exact. Well some how I managed to pinch flat my tire in four differnt areas. Meaning 8 patches and extra one for the one that didn't hold well. So one hour and 9 patches later I'm on my way again. Made it through Rogers and turned off onto Rustic Cyn.
Dusty, I've never met you, but my hat goes off to you, if you do this entire trail without dismounting. I did okay...for someone in over their head. For someone who has only been riding approx. a year.
Top third of the trail was really a blast; railroad tie drop-offs and rutted switchbacks. But when I got to the section with the bigger drop-offs, grapefruit size rocks, ruts and the land mine, obstacle course of burnt tree stumps I had to get off and walk for a tenth or two of a mile. But yeah I made it to the bottom and then rode up to Sullivan Ridge. By the way Dusty, it was really cool not being able to see the trail because of the overgrowth, but a little manicure couldn't hurt.
Well since I started at Sullivan Cyn, and I was on Sullivan Road, I took that fun roller coaster of a connector down to the Cyn and back home.
Sorry, for I know this is long winded, but I can tell you a few things: 1)the morning has tons of spider webs, 2) take caution when you see a coyote, and 3) make sure you have plenty of patches in your kit, better yet just bring a spare tire.
Sorry for the length. Had a great time. Looking forward to the next one.
Ride distance: almost 17 milesmiles Elevation change:
The yellow trekker a 35 year old Cross-Country Rider from LAXPosted:06/15/2000
- Trail UpdateShishkebab-Rode down Jedi to get to sunset after a long ride last weekend, and had a most unpleasant experience on the last 4 feet of the trail before Camp Josepho. To preface, I absolutely hate that last rutted, loose section with the 4 foot retaining wall and metal fence pole. Here's what happened:
Having a good day riding from home with friends- up mandeville, up gardenland, up to Farmers, down the short linker before Cookies, down Cookies, back up to Sullivan, down the ridge, down Jedi... and over the bars at the very bottom. My bike flew over the retaining wall landing with a cacophanous clump on the pavement below, and by some cat-like mid-air acrobatic miracle, my head landed just inches from the fence pole that threatened to skewer me. Battered, bruised, bleeding and embarassed, I had just experienced near death on Jedi... whimp-ass Jedi. Maybe I should go out and buy some training wheels for the Homegrown.
So, from now on, I am going to be a wuss and walk that section. Not worth the pain. Upon inspection, there is a sand pit right at the bottom of the hill, and yours truly made the rookie mistake of grabbing the front brake. Dumb.
Be the ball.
Ride rating: Beginner
El SantoPosted:05/03/2000
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon-Better hurry!!!!!It's drying up!!!!!!!!!
Meyer Z. Dhoates a 98 year old Downhiller riding a Camel with three humps from GLAMISPosted:03/27/2000
- Trail UpdateChapparal Deception-Rode up the ridge at sunset last night and for the first mile I couldn't tell what was different about the hills. Did it snow? Was the moon reflecting that much? All the hills had a white tint to them and it took me a while to figure it out. It is that ONE week of the year when the chaparral blooms. I'm not a botanist so I don't know if this is happening everywhere but it looks crazy! Get on your bike and check it out. Trails are looking good, up singletrack, down singletrack...fire roads are for fire trucks. Good luck to you.
Dusty BottomsPosted:03/24/2000
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon Trail-The beauty of nature is that is constantly reclaims what mankind has created. Once again, our beloved Sullivan is transforming into the technical marvel we all enjoyed. Yesterday I cheered as my feet became soaked, my back was dotted with mud and I had to slow (a bit) to overcome a downed tree. Glory be to the rain and the havoc it creates;All for our benefit and thrill.
HockAloogey a 3 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a moped with training wheelsPosted:03/19/2000
- Trail UpdateSullivan Cyn,Wstrdge SingleTrak-Just rode up Sullivan Cyn for the first time in two months and what a change!! From a flat, dusty road to a rutted, muddy and very wet trail. The first mile-and-half to two miles is totally wet. The little creek that use to run along the side is now down the middle of the trail. And in a lot of places the trail is nothing but water. Hope it stays wet for awhile.
I rode up Sullivan Canyon to dirt Mulholland and made a left to that single track that hugs the mountainside. You know the one I'm talking about. The one with the wrecked car. The one that feels about 2 feet wide. The one that if you fall to your left, it would feel like you just fell into the Grand Canyon. The one that ends on Dirt Mulholland just a stones throw from the top of Reseda. By the way what is the name of this trail?
After that trail I rode over to Westridge and went down the singletrack that parallels the fire road. The singletrack, (does that have a name as well?)is getting pretty bumpy on the downhill portions due to rain.
If you're in for a diverse loop. Try this one, it has it all. Water, hill-climbs, and single tracks. Hope to see you out there.
Ride distance: 13.50 Elevation change:
Scott a 35 year old Cross-Country Rider from westchester,caPosted:03/15/2000
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon-Well someone up above has heard our pleas and let there
be RAIN! Yes fellow mt.bikers this trail is being tore up,nature
has taken this trail the way we all like it! "STORM 2000"is HERE!and let me tell it is bigging to look more natural lot's of water crossing's the smooth paths are being rutted once again in Sullivan's ever changes.Happy trails my friends.
Gabriel a 39 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a GT STS-1 carbon xtr quipped w/spinnrgy's from HAWTHORNE
Posted:03/05/2000
- Trail UpdateChanges In Sullivan-It's interesting to see people lamenting and celebrating Sullivan's "new" mild nature (since it has been regraded.) I've been riding the trail since the mid-1980s, and it's important to take the long view. I've seen the trail start at easy, get hard after a rainy season, get easy again - it's a lovely, living thing, with help from mother nature and the DWP. Though I really loved Sullivan at it's toughest - just after El Nino - I have to say that I think overall, the smooth and relatively easy climb that it is today (Jan 1, 2000) is preferable: it's nice to have a fairly non-technical trail right in accessible Brentwood; there are plenty of tougher thrills nearby, and this one is great for beginners and kids.
- Dan Koeppel
Posted:01/01/2000
- Trail UpdateSuliivan Canyon/Mullholland-Glad to see everyone is enjoying the fun trails in the area, but please remember that this is a multi-use area. The trail that cuts off the long ride around the hill on Mulholland past Reseda to the Hub is open to hikers only, the Backbone trail is open to hikers AND HORSES and safe speeds should always be maintained on this trail, and the single track that drops off to the left near the top of Backbone into Rustic Canyon to Camp Josepho is and always has been closed to bikes. Please ride responsibly help keep this area open for all activites, especially mountain biking.
Take a break, make a difference, do some trail work.Gnarly Old Dude SBMBC
Posted:12/21/1999
- Trail UpdateWhat Happened?-What happened to the Sullivan Canyon I used to know and love? Having spent my rookie and novice days in LA, I thrived on the technical singletrack of Sullivan canyon back in the mid 90's. Now having gone back for the first time in 4 years after moving to Orange County, Sullivan sucks. There is no longer any singletrack or massive water obstacles as I remember. It is almost all fireroad with a few drops of water near the end. Too Bad!
Ride rating: Novice
So Cal Wrider a 31 year old Die-hard Enthusiast from HB, CAPosted:12/16/1999
- Trail UpdateSullivan Cyn W/singletrack-i just started mtn bike riding not too long ago. (ie: 6months). so it's okay if you call me a rookie, but i'm having a great time. my loop i usually ride is up sullivan cyn, to bent arrow and then down the single track parallel to westridge. sullivan cyn is a beautiful cyn with all the overgrown trees. bent arrow with its switchbacks and foot wide trail is a real blast as well. though i've been told it was in much better shape before the rains, which have washed out some parts. ps. how did that car get down there? I then ride over to westridge and do the singletrack. Fun, slow, steep, loose, technical!! like i said b/4 i'm a begginer with a low-end ride and tennis shoes but up for the challenge. hope to see you out there.
Ride rating: Intermediate
Ride distance: 14.25miles Elevation change:
Singletrack=25%
Scott a 35 year old Cross-Country Rider from westchester,caPosted:12/02/1999
- Trail UpdateSullivan-hey dusty bottoms er a turd burglar, if the damn trails says NO BIKES....what do you think it means? does it mean that you, and only you can ride it? its a holes like you that are getting trail signs like this put up.!!!!!!! its not hard, if it says NO BIKES, it means NO BIKES!
Posted:11/11/1999
- Trail UpdatePlease Go Easy On The Trail!-Ever since El Nino destroyed the Sullivan Canyon trail the ridge singletracks have endured heavy use. These are relatively fragile trails, and a certain amount of erosion is to be expected. However, Sunday I rode Jedi for the first time in several months, and have to say that the experience is more along the lines of a sustained baseball bat beatdown than the former sweet singletrack. The trail sucks now because it was never steep enough to be technical, but has become torn up to the point that it isn't rewarding to go fast anymore. This is due to the few knuckleheads that insist on locking their brakes around corners and down the steeper pitches; after looking at the trail, it doesn't take a genius to figure out why the other trail users get so pissed off. I understand that the only way to improve your skills is to go beyond the point at which you are comfortable, but be reasonable. Don't force yourself into situations where your only options are to harm either yourself or the trail. And it is a good idea to start walking the last pitch right above Camp Josepho; there is no way to clean it without screwing it up worse.
Ride rating: Intermediate
Singletrack=50% Dirt Road=30% Paved Path=20%
El Santo a 26 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Homegrown from Santa MonicaPosted:08/02/1999
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon-Sullivan Canyon kinda sucks now folks. Unfortunately. Yeah, sure some of the singletracks (Jedi) that parallel the canyon are pretty good. But as far as the canyon itself, it's been cleared out for those diesel gasoline drinkin', 50 foot hose carryin', red water laddened beasts we call fire engines. It might as well be paved. Coming down get's a little fast, I got up to 40 in one spot. But it's just not the same anymore. Damn, I hate that too! Oh well, guess I'll have to call El Prieto my new home now.
Singletrack=5% Dirt Road=100% Paved Path=1% Truck Trail=100%
Derrick Bean a 33 year old Weekend Warrior riding a '96 Cannondale Super-V w/Spinergy's from Windsor Hills, CaliPosted:05/06/1999
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon-99.9% Almost Paved road
Dirt Road=99.9%Posted:03/31/1999
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon-The trail has been cleaned up, therefore, it is just a fire road now. It is still sweet though. The water that was there during winter is just a trickle now. The climb is easy and it is not hard to attain great speeds on the way down. It got hot at some spots so load up on the sunscreen. Watch out for people and their dogs in the lower sections near the trailhead since this is a popular place for people to walk their dogs.
Dirt Road=98% Paved Path=2%
Efren a 20 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Bontrager Privateer S from West LAPosted:02/21/1999
- Trail UpdateChristian-I rode this trail/road for the first time today. Noted a surprising amount of water in the lower sections. As I climbed out to the ridge I checked out the LAFD crews disassembling a crashed Fire Department UH1 helicopter. According to one of the fire captains, the helicopter and crew were involved in night-time training when the engine failed. They didn't have enough altitude to counter-rotate, but were some how able to put it down on the fire road. One broken leg was the only injury. That had to be a hairy experience!
A friend mentioned that mountain lions have been spotted just north of this canyon. Bring mace and keep an eye peeled...
Dirt Road=95% Paved Path=5%
Christian, a 36 year old Weekend Warrior riding a '94 Bontrager from Westwood, CA.Posted:01/05/1999
- Trail UpdatePatrick-The Gas Co. has finished grating the road up the canyon. It is wide and smooth enough to drive your fathers Oldsmobile up to the ridge.
There is very little of the old trail left behind. Only a few short sections to remind us of what once was. It is still a nicer ride than the ridge roads, with much more shade and some color on the trees. The descent from the ridge down into the canyon is much faster now. there are some humps that you can get some air off of if you carry enough speed. Watch for equipment and workers for awhile yet, it looks like they are still going to be working up there for a bit longer.
Dirt Road=100%
Patrick a 35 year old Weekend Warrior riding a Haro, Escape from Mar Vista, CAPosted:11/19/1998
- Trail UpdateDave-IT'S ALL OVER!!! The Gas Co has finally bulldozed the awesome singletrack/obstacle course that had been so legendary since El Nino. Last weekend I rode up Sullivan and the first mile or so from the bottom had been bulldozed. This weekend (11/7) I rode up again and they had bulldozed and smoothed out the trail almost all the way up. What a pity - but many great memories. Let's see what the rains can create this winter!!!!
Singletrack=15% Dirt Road=85%
David a 31 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Litespeed Hiwassee from LAPosted:11/07/1998
- Trail UpdateSullivan Fire Road And Westridge-I rode up Sullivan Fire Road from Sunset to Mulholland and down Westridge to Sunset. The roads are in great shape. This is a good ride for a strong beginer or novice. It is about six miles one way and about 1500 feet elevation gain. There is a park at the top of Westridge and Mulholland with a water fountain and toilets. There is a couple of vending machines with sodas and PowerAde. Very nice.
Dirt Road=60% Paved Path=40%
Peter a 35 year old riding a Raliegh SC200NX from MAr Vista, CA .net URL: Map of this trail with elevation profilePosted:10/14/1998
- Trail UpdateGeoff-Riding from either direction (Westridge to the Canyon or Reverse) this trail is fun and quick (which has been great considering the heat last few weeks). Too many people and beginners on the trail lately, making racing up some of the canyon single track a little more difficult. Last ride down through the canyon on 8/29 was loads of fun. I cleared a few technical places that I hadn't even dared to try before and I got some nice air on some newer dropoffs. The trail seems to change every time I come down through there. When parking on queensferry or bayliss, you have to watch the signage (bring a camera!). Some surly traffic cop tried to give me a ticket in a legal parking area.
Singletrack=35-50% Dirt Road=50%
Geoff a 25 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Cannodale Caad 3 hardtail from Santa MonicaPosted:09/04/1998
- Trail UpdateSullivan "My Left Nut" Loop-This is my favorite trail outside of Colorado because it can be as easy or as hard as you want. Some of the hills are impossible to ride up. (at least I have never seen anyone do it) That is why I call the trail the "My Left Nut" Loop, because I would give my left nut to be able to ride up ALL of the single track on this trail without EVER getting off my bike. The best way to ride is to take the single track that runs parallel to the fireroad. If you want an easier ride, take the fireroad the whole way and you will have 60% dirt road and 30% single track. My loop is about 28mi, but you can get that down to 14mi.
The conditions on the trail (and the trail itself) changes from day to day. Just last Saturday & Sunday a tree almost took my eye out. (Don't worry about that one, I took care of it) I have seen many beginners on this trail and have even taken a few myself but it is very boring and/or hazardous to everyone's health. Many hikers w/ dogs on this trail, not to mention runners and horses (and we all know what horses leave behind). This adds to the technical aspect of the trail. Don't take this the wrong way. I am always VERY careful of others and always make sure everyone has what they need if they are stopped. But at the same time, I get up to 38-43mph every time and have never EVEN come close to hitting anyone.
Look for me at 6:00 M-F...I will be the one you are passing up the hill that bombs by you in the vegetable tunnel on the way down.
Singletrack=60% Dirt Road=30% Paved Path=10%
Frank a 27 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Buell / Gary Fisher / Iron Horse from West LAPosted:07/13/1998
- Trail UpdateUp Westridge, Down Sullivan Cyn-Just back in town. Rode up ridge, parking restricted with signs near trail head Westridge. Park further down. Last right before trail head. No signs. Normal great climb up to Nike Radar Site (San Vincente park). Coming down through Sullivan Canyon was GREAT! A little technical, wet, fast, totally different trail than before this winter. 2- 4 foot drops, log crossings (some you can hop, others forget it!) A million creek crossings as the "new" trail winds through the lower part of the canyon. Loved this ride before, Really love it now! Enjoy the climb back to the westridge trailhead!!!
Singletrack=60% Dirt Road=40%
Tommy Diggs a 28 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a 98 Stumper from Venice Beach, Ca.Posted:07/08/1998
- Trail Update"no Shox" Mook-THIS IS WHAT MOUNTAIN BIKING IS ABOUT. Water, 1trak, bushes in your face, decent climb - it's all there. Only drag is that it's pretty short (2hr rt) and climbing on the pavement back to your car kinda sucks. We went with some bi1king for only the second time ever and they did fine, yet it was still pretty challenging. DA BOMB.
Singletrack=15% Dirt Road=65% Paved Path=20%
no shox mook a 27 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a rock hops from santa monicaPosted:07/07/1998
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon-If you're a technical rider, then you'll have a good time but keep the kids at home because this ain't no family ride anymore. If you rode this trail a year ago, it's a different story now. The creek has eroded what was formerly a relatively smooth trail into a choice of challenging but mostly doable obstacles. The biggest problem you'll have is deciding on riding the creek or one of the trails on either side -- one of the selections may lead to a 3ft. drop/rise or an unrideable path into bushes and boulders. Lots of water, some fallen trees to manuever over and some loose sand but isn't this why you have a mountain bike anyway?
Posted:06/25/1998
- Trail UpdateMbrenes-By no means is this a deadbeat ride. From the bottom to the top is very challenging. I just suggest on being careful, a mistake on this trail can be danger to one's health. If one is a good technical rider you will love this trail.
Posted:06/18/1998
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon/Brentwood (Update) Last few entries make this sound like a deadbeat ride. Just the opposite, though. The rains have made this trail stand out as a challenging and extremely fun trek. It's now mostly single track (take advantage of it while it lasts) and if you lose the trail, have a BLAST riding up or down in the river bed. The water temp is great and the erosion has left numerous jumps in it's wake. A must before the trail turns wide again!
Posted:06/08/1998
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon-el nino went 40 days and 40 nights on the canyon trail. old trail is gone. ended up riding the dry creek bed more often than not. this is not the family ride it used to be--lotsa rocks, limbs, and water to test your helmet if your not careful. may be a good idea to ride up the canyon to see what you're up against before descending from one of the ridges.
lobster-boy a 27 year old Weekend Warrior riding a trekPosted:06/01/1998
- Trail UpdateRode the canyon on 4-12-98. Did not know what to expect, but was I surprised. The trail is nothing like before. Plenty of rocks to give a concussion if you fall hard. Fell myself a NUMBER of times, but nothing serious. Most happened while maneuvering turns and tires DUG into deep sand. I'm not the greatest technical rider so I took it slow and easy !! There are a number of drops (3-5 ft approx.) which can be accomplished, but I did not attempt due to my inexperience with these obstacles. It's amazing to see what EL NINO rains can do to a trail. I would reccommend this trail for only the Advanced and Expert. Intermediate riders can also try, just take it slow. One recommendation is to leave your bike at home and strap on some hiking boots.
Max Brenes a 28 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a Supergo Access from Hawthorne, Calif .comPosted:04/13/1998
- Trail UpdateSullivan-Rode it on Sat/Sun 3-8 & 3-9, about 6-8 of water running down entire length of canyon in small streams. Lots of loose rocks! Entire trail has been transformed into a very technical ride, if you don't like obstacles like fallen trees and 3ft drop offs you may want to reconsider
Dirt Road=98% Paved Path=1% Truck Trail=1%
Scheisse a 27 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Klein from BrentwoodPosted:03/09/1998
- Trail UpdateRogers Ridge(Back Bone)-Rode sullivan ridge on 2/28. The creek in the canyon sounded like a river with rapids. probably not a good ride now.
Posted:02/28/1998
- Trail UpdateJust went down Sullivan Canyon Feb 15. Awesome! El Nino has done a good job forming a singletrack with lots of small jumps (3 to 5 ft) , burms and other obstacles (trees, boulders and logs). If you go though, you better like water. This trail is as good as its been in years. Go right now if you are man or woman enough to do it.
Won a 25 year old Weekend Warrior riding a stumpjumper from Hermosa BeachPosted:02/16/1998
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon-Rode up the Canyon yesterday (Sunday 12/7). Lots of loose stuff. A few rockslides. One spot had a couple major rocks. Heads up, if the rain continues like it has -- could become littered with falling rock.
Nino a 29 year old Weekend Warrior riding a GT Timberline from West LAPosted:12/08/1997
- Trail UpdateRode down it on a rainy day, 11/16. Some singletrack grooves are starting to get worn in again and the surface is getting a little scruffy, no technical stuff yet but it's much less boring than it has been. Nothing against the gas company, but I hope their particular form of trail maintenance gets undone this winter.
kws a 77 year old Die-hard Enthusiast riding a blue bicycle from VenicePosted:11/16/1997
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon-Yet another update. As of early June '97, the canyon hovers near mint condition. The Gas Company's reworking of the canyon didn't trash it but it did smooth over alot of the garbage. Much of the canyon is now smooth singletrack, as in the days of yore. Have fun but don't bomb. Other folks (hikers, trail runners, dog walkers, equestrians) use the place too. When I've left my bike at home to go for a jog, I've been shaved by more than a few asshole riders, many of whom are shuttled to the top and blast down, sans helmets, sans brains. Be cool. By the way, 4.5 miles one way to Dirt Mulholland, with 1000' gain, some technical.
Steve Sosa a 33 year old riding a a trusty Trek 8000 from Los AngelesPosted:06/12/1997
- Trail UpdateWestridge/Backbone Trail-- This fire road takes you to San Vincente Mountain Park. From there you can go left to Sullivan Canyon or beyond to do the Backbone Trail that will take you to Hue Pass and Will Rogers State Park. I suggest you have a local map of the Santa Monica Mountains/ Topanga State Park Region.
Singletrack=25% Dirt Road=50% Paved Path=25%
Greg Borgeson a 23 year old Cross-Country Rider riding a Univega Dual Action Pro (Full-Suspension) from Pacific Palisades, Calif.Posted:06/12/1997
- Trail UpdateWestridge Fire Road (to Nike Base)-This is a moderate 4.5 mile fireroad that terminates at the former Nike base on Dirt Mulholland. For a longer ride, one can park on Mandaville and ride up paved Westridge and the fireroad. One can go west along Dirt Mulholland and return down Sullivan Canyon or Sullivan Ridge.
Dirt Road 100%
Ron Greenspan a 42 year old cross-country rider from West Los Angeles, CA .comPosted:06/12/1997
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon Trail Condition-The canyon has been reopened since early October and based on past experiences will likely resemble a single track after Mother Natures' handiwork this winter (winter rains).
Bryan GordonPosted:06/12/1997
- Trail UpdateSullivan Canyon-I have an interesting story regarding the popular Sullivan Canyon trail in Brentwood.
I was riding on this trail with my pooch, when I happened upon two VERY cool Ca. GAS Co. employees. We chatted for a while and I discovered some very interesting information. The gas lines, and access road in the canyon were under repair. I knew there was something going on, as the canyon was closed and signs indicated that construction was happening. ( I took it upon my self to stay out of trouble when I entered the canyon) These guys informed me that it was cool if I was there and was careful to head all the warnings and barriers, and that I didn't mess with any of there markers, flags, etc. They proceeded to tell me that they have been harassed by Mountain Bikers and a few hikers this month, and four years ago when they were here last. The few asshole mountain bikers who hypocritically accused these two gentlemen of 'raping' the nature....uh....hmmmmmm. Here's the kicker. That Canyon, from the bottom to the top, from 80ft down on either canyon wall, is owned by the CA. Gas Co. It is technically private property. It isn't rented, or leased from the city , county, state,etc. IT belongs to the gas co. They have been nice so far to let residents enjoy the natural beauty of the Canyon. They almost closed it four years ago when assholes vandalized equipment, and harassed employees.
The trick is, if we want to keep access to this canyon, we gotta be cool, and respect the owners. ESPECIALLY Mario Espinosa, and Lenny: the two gentlemen who are working there right now. These guys are extremely cool, and put up with a lot of shit with a good attitude. Furthermore, they are interested in keeping up good relations with the community so as to maintain the free access to the Canyon. Their primary worry right now, in fact, is that people might get in there are hurt themselves.(open pits, etc.)
I strongly urge you guys to post the pertinent info I have presented here, and spread it to as many local organizations as possible. I promised Mario and Lenny that I'd let people know that they were using private land and that access was dependant on good behavior. I also promised that I would stress that these guys have been extremely tolerant and would appreciate a break from the harassment.(some of which has been downright dangerous)
Let's all keep in mind that mountain biking is only fun with mountains to bike in.....this right can be taken away. This is a special case because of the private property issue....we're lucky to have it, let's not ____ it up.
Thanx for your patience and anticipated cooperation.
David Wilk {dwilk@ucla.edu}Posted:06/12/1997
