Area Summary Location: Northeast Orange County near Yorba Linda Best For: Intermediate riders Suitable For: All levels Ground Cover: Open grasslands and chaparral Seasons: Best in winter and early spring. Often hot and smoggy in summer.
Description:
Chino Hills State Park is a vast expanse of open space adjacent to the huge population centers of northern Orange County and the Inland Empire. Hit it on the right day in winter or spring and the grass-carpeted rolling hills and the great views of the San Bernardino Mountains make for a sublime biking experience.
Most of the mountain bike trails at Chino Hills tends toward the intermediate level, with rolling fire roads predominating.
That said, the sheer size of the park, along with the few fun sections of single-track that it offers, can make for a great workout even for advanced riders.
Please be aware that Chino Hills is situated in the smog belt. Riding is best in the winter and early spring. Summer temperatures are often torrid, adding to the discomfort and potential health hazard posed by the smog.
Directions to trailhead(s):
The main entrance is located near Chino Hills. From Hwy. 71 take Soquel Canyon Parkway southwest for a mile. Go left on Elinvar Road. Head right up dirt Bane Canyon Road for 3 miles to main parking area.
Additional access points in Yorba Linda (top of Rimcrest Drive) and Brea (off Carbon Canyon Road - Hwy. 142).