The San Gabriel Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) area is a popular destination for off-road enthusiasts in California. Located in the San Gabriel Mountains, this area offers a wide range of trails and routes for vehicles of all types, from dirt bikes and ATVs to four-wheel drive trucks and SUVs. The San Gabriel OHV area is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, which provides facilities and services for visitors, including parking, restrooms, and picnic areas.
History of the San Gabriel OHV Area
The San Gabriel OHV area has a long history of off-road recreation, dating back to the early 20th century. In the 1920s and 1930s, the area was used by miners and loggers who needed to access remote areas of the forest. After World War II, the area became popular with off-road enthusiasts, who were drawn by the challenging terrain and scenic beauty of the San Gabriel Mountains. In the 1970s and 1980s, the U.S. Forest Service began to develop the area as a formal OHV recreation site, building trails and facilities and establishing rules and regulations to ensure safe and sustainable use of the area.
Trails and Routes
The San Gabriel OHV area offers over 100 miles of trails and routes, ranging from easy to extremely difficult. The trails wind through a variety of landscapes, including forests, meadows, and rocky hillsides, and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Some of the most popular trails in the area include the San Gabriel River Trail, which follows the river through a scenic canyon, and the Brush Mountain Trail, which offers challenging terrain and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
| Trail Name | Difficulty Level | Length |
|---|---|---|
| San Gabriel River Trail | Easy to Moderate | 10 miles |
| Brush Mountain Trail | Difficult to Extremely Difficult | 15 miles |
| Monrovia Canyon Trail | Moderate to Difficult | 12 miles |
Facilities and Services
The San Gabriel OHV area offers a range of facilities and services for visitors, including parking, restrooms, and picnic areas. The area also has a visitor center that provides information and maps, as well as a repair shop that offers maintenance and repair services for off-road vehicles. Additionally, there are several campsites in the area, including the San Gabriel Canyon Campground and the Chilao Campground, which offer amenities such as flush toilets and potable water.
Safety and Regulations
Safety is a top priority in the San Gabriel OHV area, and visitors are required to follow all rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Some of the key safety regulations include wearing protective gear, such as helmets and seatbelts, and staying on designated trails to avoid damaging the environment. Visitors are also required to obtain a free permit before entering the area, which can be obtained at the visitor center or online.
- Wear protective gear, including helmets and seatbelts
- Stay on designated trails to avoid damaging the environment
- Obtain a free permit before entering the area
- Follow all posted signs and regulations
What are the hours of operation for the San Gabriel OHV area?
+The San Gabriel OHV area is open daily from 6am to 10pm, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Do I need a permit to enter the San Gabriel OHV area?
+Yes, a free permit is required to enter the San Gabriel OHV area. Permits can be obtained at the visitor center or online.
Are there any campsites in the San Gabriel OHV area?
+Yes, there are several campsites in the San Gabriel OHV area, including the San Gabriel Canyon Campground and the Chilao Campground. Amenities include flush toilets and potable water.
