Ride the Arroyo Seco

FAMILY BIKING IN LOS ANGELES

To quote our two-year-old: "Yeah! I did it!" Our family rode in the First Tour de Arroyo cycling fest last weekend. Later in this post, I'll tell you about an easy, off-road, mini version of this trip. The Tour de Arroyo was organized by the Arroyo Seco Foundation to celebrate the late bicycling advocate Dennis Crowley and promote a green belt of open space along the Arroyo Seco. The Arroyo is a major tributary of the Los Angeles River; it's headwaters are the San Gabriel Mountains above Pasadena.

For the Tour, cyclists gathered at Memorial Park in Pasadena. It was fun to check out the variety of bicycles. 

We rode city streets until we arrived at Arroyo Seco Park, bordering South Pasadena and the LA enclave of Hermon. We road downhill, along the Arroyo--paralleling the 110 Freeway--for a couple miles.

We hit the streets again in Montecito Heights, crossed the LA River--

and pedaled, victorious, into Los Angeles State Historic Park (Cornfields). From there, our son was thrilled to be able to take the Goldline back to Memorial Park. It was an exciting day for all of us. We don't normally ride on such busy city streets, but biking with a group allowed our son to get a new view. 

FAMILY RIDE ALONG--AND IN--THE ARROYO

Here's how you can bike a portion of this ride, without worrying about street traffic. You can reverse these directions if you live in the Pasadena area. You can also walk the trail, playing or picnicking at Arroyo Seco Park. It's a good choice for older kids, or little ones riding in strollers. (Not so great for toddler who'll want to get in the water or climb the concrete channel.) Look for red tailed hawks perched atop the sycamore trees, or circling overhead.

Start At

Montecito Heights Recreation Center

4545 Homer Street

Los Angeles, CA 90031

213-485-5148

Drive to the Montecito Heights Recreation Center. Heading east on the 110 Freeway, exit at Avenue 43.  Travel two blocks to Homer Street, turn left on Homer. Park in lot. Cross park and head toward the Arroyo (alongside the freeway). You'll see the bike path running next to the channelized streambed.

This path runs two miles north up to Arroyo Seco Park in Hermon/South Pasadena. The path soon ducks into the Arroyo, so be aware of the weather. During and after rain, large amounts of water race down LA's channelized waterways and make them dangerous. Even on dry days, water flow here can be quick, so keep small children away from it. When you arrive at Arroyo Seco Park, look for the horse stables.

Got more time? Combine this with a trip to nearby Debs Park. Got a favorite (family friendly) bike ride? Please let us know.