Escape LA Grand Depart with LA Bikepacking Sucks in Los Angeles, CA

The “Escape L.A.” Bikepacking Route: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Los Angeles

Have you ever had a $12 cappuccino? It’s not for everyone. It’s hard to find, an acquired taste, and undeniably elitist. Yet, once you try it, you can’t help but love it, so much so that you might deny its existence just to keep it to yourself. You’ll start complaining about the cold when it’s only 57 degrees, insist that “no one walks in L.A.” after parking seven blocks away, and join the chorus of “L.A. Cycling Sucks.” Welcome to the “Escape L.A.” bikepacking route, where rules are more like suggestions, much like the speed limit on Mulholland Drive.

The “Escape L.A.” Bikepacking Route: Your Ultimate Challenge

For those brave enough to take on this challenge, “Escape L.A.” offers the best cycling experience Los Angeles and its surrounding areas have to offer. Starting and finishing at the iconic Santa Monica Pier, this route takes you on a journey through the urban sprawl of Los Angeles, throwing you into rugged, wild terrains nestled comfortably within the modern world.

Are you ready to take on the challenge of escaping L.A.? Finding a parking spot might be the first hurdle, and don’t bother asking the locals for directions—they’re likely just as lost as you are. Along the way, you’ll ride through the glitz of Beverly Hills, the hustle of Hollywood, and the scenic Mulholland Drive. You’ll get a taste of the Santa Monica Pier, meander along the L.A. River, and explore the expanses of Griffith Park. The route even offers glimpses of famous filming locations and hidden military sites.

Los Angeles, a city known for its entertainment industry, diverse culture, and notorious traffic, is also home to some of the best off-road cycling in the country. Despite its population of nearly 4 million people and the endless urban sprawl, L.A. boasts hundreds of thousands of acres of public land within cycling distance.

The Unique Appeal of “Escape L.A.”

What sets “Escape L.A.” apart is its ability to immerse you in wilderness while still being in one of the most densely populated areas in the world. You’ll encounter coastal views that make you forget about the city’s housing crisis, rugged foothills that overshadow the suburbs, and mountains that make the skyscrapers seem insignificant. Whether you enjoy dodging beachgoers, tackling endless coastal canyons, speeding along road sections, navigating rocky singletracks, or traversing vast forest roads, this route has something for everyone.

You’ll be transported to the vast and abundant public lands surrounding Los Angeles, highlighting the beauty, accessibility, and stark contrasts of the area. If you’re still skeptical, take a break from your screenplay and head out to explore the city’s wild side. But beware—just like Los Angeles real estate, the price of this adventure is steep: 290 miles and over 39,000 feet of elevation gain!

The Details

This is not a race, but a self-supported challenge designed to test your limits. You can choose the direction of the loop and embark on this journey at your own pace.

• Grand Depart: November 7th, 2024, at 7 AM from the Santa Monica Pier. An interest form will open in August with an updated route, so mark your calendar and get excited!
• Individual Time Trial: If you plan to record your individual time trial (ITT), please contact the organizers. The route is most enjoyable during the spring and fall.

Ready to escape the city? Visit the official “Escape L.A.” bikepacking route page for more details and to sign up.

For those who think Los Angeles cycling is a joke, think again. The “Escape L.A.” bikepacking route is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by those daring enough to take on the challenge. So grab your bike, gear up, and prepare to see a side of Los Angeles you’ve never imagined.