Los Angeles is renowned throughout the world for its beautiful landscapes and sceneries that make it the perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you love surfing or riding on dunes, you will have a blast in Los Angeles. With that said, today, I will showcase the top 10 most scenic ATV routes in Los Angeles.
The top 10 most scenic routes in Los Angeles are:
- Angeles National Forest
- Rowher Flat Area
- Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area
- Littlerock Dam Recreation Area
- El Mirage Dry Lake OHV Area
- Ballinger Canyon OHV Area
- Dove Springs OHV Area
- Cleghorn Ridge Trail
- Big Bear Lake Area
- Johnson Valley OHV Area
These are my recommendations for the best ATV routes in Los Angeles. Keep reading to find out more about each route and what makes it stand out.
Top 10 Most Scenic Routes in Los Angeles
#1 Angeles National Forest
Most people think about sunny beaches and the Hollywood Hills when it comes to Los Angeles, but there’s more to this amazing city. The Angeles National Forest is the perfect example of that. If you love riding four-wheelers on rugged terrains, I highly recommend checking out the Angeles National Forest. However, you should make sure to bring a camera with you (or a smartphone that takes good pictures) because the trail offers stunning views of the San Gabriel Mountains that will leave you in awe.
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#2 Rowher Flat Area
Do you own a long distance ATV? If that is the case, I recommend the Rowher Flat Area ATV route in Los Angeles. What makes this route perfect for long distance four-wheelers is the fact that it features more than 50 miles of trails with varying levels of difficulty. So, whether you are a beginner or a veteran off-road rider, you are guaranteed to have fun. Since my list covers the most scenic routes in Los Angeles, it should come as no surprise that it’s packed with beautiful landscapes that feature oak woodlands, sagebrush, and vistas of the surrounding mountains.
#3 Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area
Right from the get-go, I need to mention that you need to set at least two days to see the entirety of Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area. The ATV route features 130 miles of marked trails that cover all terrains imaginable. This is why you should make sure to wear the right ATV gear when going on this route. Nonetheless, what I really like about the Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area is that it’s a perfect destination for all skill levels. It starts with sandy washes and ends with steep hills that will test any ATV rider’s meddle.
#4 Littlerock Dam Recreation Area
It’s been challenging to determine the position I should place Littlerock Dam Recreation Area in my top 10 most scenic routes in Los Angeles. This is because the ATV route is stunningly beautiful, but it’s not the best destination for beginner riders. The trails are a bit tricky, and if you have yet to master steering on your ATV, the tight corners might be problematic. However, I can’t deny that the views in Littlerock Dam Recreation Area are not breathtaking. This is why it’s sitting on the #4 spot.
#5 El Mirage Dry Lake OHV Area
On the fifth spot, we have the amazing El Mirage Dry Lake OHV Area that never fails to impress with its expansive dry lake bed. The lake bed is ideal for ATV riders who want to test the top speed of their ATVs. Furthermore, the ATV route is surrounded by a picturesque desert landscape that makes for a one-of-a-kind ATV riding experience. I should warn you that since you will be riding in open space most of the time, the sun will get quite hot. Make sure to bring enough water and avoid riding at peak sun hours.
#6 Ballinger Canyon OHV Area
Are you the type of rider who enjoys difficult forest trails? If yes, Ballinger Canyon OHV Area is what you are looking for. This is one of the most scenic routes in the entire country, and you can find it located in the Los Padres National Forest. The canyon covers more than 68 miles of trails that all pass through beautiful forest landscapes. Your riding skills will be challenged, and you will get to take in stunning scenery.
#7 Dove Springs OHV Area
One of the things that make the Dove Springs OHV Area a fantastic ATV route in Los Angeles is the fact that it’s surrounded by desert landscapes. This means that you can speed your four-wheeler in any direction you wish without having to worry about obstacles. I also want to mention that towards the end of the route, you will be riding on sandy washes. So, you should be prepared to get your boots wet. Nevertheless, the Dove Springs OHV Area is an excellent ATV riding experience for everyone.
#8 Cleghorn Ridge Trail
The Cleghorn Ridge Trail is one of the most scenic routes for ATVs in Los Angeles, and there is no doubt about that. The route is located in the San Bernardino National Forest and it offers a mix of challenging terrain and breathtaking views, such as vistas of the Cajon Pass, Silverwood Lake, and the mesmerizing Mojave Desert.
#9 Big Bear Lake Area
People from all over the country visit Big Bear Lake Area thanks to the incredible attractions this area offers. While fishing might be the main attraction, I assure you that the scenic ATV routes it presents are worth your time. My favorite thing about this route is that it’s surrounded by dense pine forests that smell tremendous! The air is super fresh as well.
#10 Johnson Valley OHV Area
On the final spot of the most scenic routes in Los Angeles, we have the great Johnson Valley OHV Area. The route is known among the ATV community for being an excellent destination for experienced riders who want to take on rocky hills for an adrenaline-pumping experience. Riding on mountain terrain is difficult, but it can be easier if you rent an ATV for mountain terrain.
Final Words
Los Angeles is a treasure trove of scenic ATV riders. The surrounding areas offer a variety of trails and terrains for riders of all skill levels. Whether you are just getting started on a rental ATV or have already hundreds of hours riding quads, you will definitely enjoy riding through these picturesque landscapes. No matter if you choose the Dove Springs OHV Area or the Angeles National Forest, you are in for a treat!
