Explore the history of Saddleback Wilderness via singletrack trails that flow through the park connecting you to the past. In 1967 Saddleback Park became the first motocross park in the United States. It was the host of national and international races throughout the 1970’s, drawing crowds up to 10,000 people. More than 40 years later, Saddleback Wilderness is one of the newest Orange County Parks Open Spaces.
Bring your mountain bike and come explore nearly 3.0 miles of new, mostly single-track trails. The trails are non-technical single-tracks with gradual climbs and descents with some short steeper climbs that may be a hike-a-bike for some participants. As with all mountain biking trails, there may be some natural hazards such as sand, tree roots, overgrown plants, rocks and small ruts. The trails are a great introduction to single-track mountain biking for beginners but also fun for the more experienced rider.
This beginner, family friendly ride will traverse most of the trails in both directions. We will work on basic riding skills to help beginners negotiate turns, switchbacks, short steeper climbs and even drop-offs. Along the route, we will point out some remnants of the motorcycle park and recent native plant restoration area. There will stop at the vista point with views of Orange County and the San Bernardino Mountains where there will be a break to rest and enjoy a snack.
This ride is approximately 4-5 miles with about 250′-350′ climbing depending on the route. Please allow up to 2 hours total for riding, short stops and regrouping and/or interpretation.
Trail Preparedness – additional information:
- Some trailside bike repair knowledge is appreciated.
- To be able to ride with the group some trail experience is required. While not required, participants may consider first riding in areas such as Peter’s Canyon, Chino Hills Telegraph Canyon, El Moro Canyon, and Aliso Woods.
- Riders must be able to ride/walk up to 5 miles on gradual uphill and downhill terrain.
- Riders must have their own mountain bike, helmet, several bottles of water, and snacks.
- Parents, your child must be able to ride their own bike. Children’s bikes must have front shocks and 20 inch or larger knobby wheels. Please consider that this ride may be difficult for your child. Bring spare tubes for your child’s bikes as well as enough water and snacks for your family.
- Appropriate mountain bikes have knobby tires, multiple low gears and a front shock.
- Please do not bring road bikes, beach cruisers, BMX bikes, electric or motorized bikes, or attachments to your bike.
Please note that you will be asked to adhere to the following measures in order to participate:
- Be registered in advance, no walk-up registration is permitted.
- Arrive with all necessary equipment to keep you safe on the trail, including water, proper attire, and closed-toe footwear, first aid, health needs etc.
- Restrooms will be available, but facilities will not be sanitized for each individual.
- All participants are required to sign a liability waiver upon arrival at the staging area and before beginning the activity. The waiver can be previewed here: IRC Liability Waiver
- You may be prevented from participating if you do not adhere to the above protocols.
Please review the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings to help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-2 activity on the land.
Participants are advised to arrive at the staging area 15 minutes before the start time. The gate will close promptly at the start time of the activity.
