Cleveland National Forest - North

Area Summary
Location: Mission Viejo area
Best For: Advanced riders
Suitable For: Intermediates and better
Ground Cover: Chaparral- and grass-covered hillsides and riparian woodlands.
Seasons: Fall through spring. Hot in summer.

Description:
Riders looking for true epic rides should look no further than the central region of the Santa Anas. Four semi-parallel trails connect the 'burbs of Orange County to the Main Divide Fire Road running along the spine of the range, setting the stage for some tremendous loop possibilities. Throw in a number of sweet single-tracks and the possibilities are staggering.

The terrain here is decidedly rugged with elevation ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 feet and vegetation consisting largely of chaparral and oak woodlands. The views are often awesome, particularly as you climb toward the Main Divide.

The featured rides are geared toward intermediate to advanced riders. Thankfully for less adventurous riders, shorter loop possibilities do exist, though beginners will need to be content with out-and-backs along the main trails. Hard-core riders can use the map to create their own epic adventures.

Directions to trailhead(s):
The trailheads are reached via Santiago Canyon Road, which connects El Toro Road (at I-5) to the south with Chapman Ave. (at Hwy. 55) to the west. The following direction are from El Toro Rd. at I-5. Trabuco Canyon: El Toro Rd. NE for 7.5 miles, right on Live Oak Canyon Rd. for 4.5 miles, left on Trabuco Canyon Rd. (dirt) for 4.5 miles to Holy Jim trailhead. Santiago Trail: El Toro Rd. NE for 9 miles, right on Modjeska Grade Road for .5 miles. Trailhead is on the right. Street parking is limited. Silverado Trail: El Toro Road NE for 13.5 miles, right on Silverado Canyon Rd. for 5.4 miles to trailhead.
 
 
 


 

 





 


 

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